cnn.com
Dark chocolate enthusiasts might benefit from their sweet tooth, according to a new observational study published in The BMJ. The research suggests that consuming at least five 1-ounce servings of dark chocolate each week could reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 21%. The study also found that as dark chocolate consumption increased up to five servings per week, the potential health benefits improved. However, milk chocolate was linked to weight gain over time, which is a known contributor to diabetes risk.
Researchers emphasized the difference between dark and milk chocolate, noting that while both contain similar levels of sugar, calories, and fat, dark chocolate has a higher cacao content. Cacao, the less-processed form of chocolate derived from the cacao tree, is rich in flavanols—bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress. These mechanisms could explain the observed benefit of dark chocolate on diabetes risk.
What’s New: Dark Chocolate Shows a Clear Edge Over Milk Chocolate
The study analyzed data from more than 111,000 participants across three large, long-term studies, including the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. Over a 25-year period, participants completed food questionnaires every four years, allowing researchers to assess their chocolate consumption habits.
Results showed a significant 21% lower risk of type 2 diabetes among those who ate at least five servings of dark chocolate per week compared to those who rarely or never consumed chocolate. On the other hand, milk chocolate did not demonstrate any measurable diabetes prevention benefits and was associated with long-term weight gain. The findings underscore the potential health advantages of dark chocolate when consumed in moderation.
Why It Matters: Diabetes Is a Growing Public Health Challenge
With nearly 1 in 10 Americans affected by diabetes—and a staggering 1.31 billion global cases projected by 2050—prevention strategies are critical. Factors like poor diets, low physical activity, and an overreliance on ultraprocessed foods contribute to rising type 2 diabetes rates, making dietary interventions an important area of research.
While dark chocolate may offer some benefits, experts caution against viewing it as a primary preventive measure for diabetes. Chocolate products still contain sugar, and excessive consumption could offset potential health gains. Health professionals often suggest alternative sources of flavanols, such as berries, apples, pomegranates, and tea, as more reliable dietary options.
It’s also worth noting that some dark chocolate products have been found to contain contaminants like lead and cadmium, raising safety concerns, particularly with long-term consumption. For chocolate lovers, moderation and informed choices are key. Opting for small portions of high-quality dark chocolate a few times a week could be part of a balanced approach to health, but fruits and vegetables remain the most evidence-backed sources of antioxidants and flavanols.