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ChocolateCholesterol/LipidsDiabetes MellitusHeart DiseaseHigh Blood PressureObesity

Benefits of chocolate on the heart

JR

Researchers in the UK and Columbia reviewed the association between chocolate and the risk of developing cardiometabolic disorders — high blood pressure, abnormally high glucose, elevated triglycerides, low “good” cholesterol, abdominal obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity.

First, the details.

  • 7 studies met the inclusion criteria (including 114,009 participants) and the data were used in a meta-analysis.
  • There was large variation in measurement of chocolate consumption, study designs, and reported outcomes.

And, the results.

  • 5 studies reported a beneficial association between higher levels of chocolate consumption and the risk of cardiometabolic disorders.
  • The highest levels of chocolate consumption were associated with a 37% reduction in cardiovascular disease and a 29% reduction in stroke compared with the lowest levels.

The bottom line?

The authors concluded, “Based on observational evidence, levels of chocolate consumption seem to be associated with a substantial reduction in the risk of cardiometabolic disorders.”

More research may confirm a potentially beneficial effect of chocolate consumption. Until then, moderation is advised.

More on this topic is here.

9/4/11 18:24 JR

Hi, I’m JR

John Russo, Jr., PharmD, is president of The MedCom Resource, Inc. Previously, he was senior vice president of medical communications at www.Vicus.com, a complementary and alternative medicine website.

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