It has been claimed that one of the ingredients of dark chocolate may in fact help diabetics control high cholesterol levels.
The Hull University study has suggested that chocolate with high levels of cocoa solids is rich in polyphenols and can reduce the risk of heart disease.
It found that cholesterol fell in a small number of diabetics given bars rich in this ingredient.
A total of 12 volunteers with the type II form of the condition were given identical chocolate bars, some enriched with polyphenols, over a 16 week period.
Those given the enriched bars experienced a small improvement in their overall cholesterol 'profile', with total cholesterol falling, and levels of so-called 'good' cholesterol rising.
Steve Atkin, lead author of the study, suggested that it could mean a reduction in heart risk.
"Chocolate with a high cocoa content should be included in the diet of individuals with type II diabetes as part of a sensible, balanced approach to diet and lifestyle," BBC News quoted him as saying.
However, researchers at Diabetes UK said that the message would be interpreted as a 'green light' to eat more chocolate.
They pointed out that even bars with the highest levels of cocoa solids would contain high levels of fat and sugar, and could end up doing more harm than good.
Via : medindia
The Hull University study has suggested that chocolate with high levels of cocoa solids is rich in polyphenols and can reduce the risk of heart disease.
It found that cholesterol fell in a small number of diabetics given bars rich in this ingredient.
A total of 12 volunteers with the type II form of the condition were given identical chocolate bars, some enriched with polyphenols, over a 16 week period.
Those given the enriched bars experienced a small improvement in their overall cholesterol 'profile', with total cholesterol falling, and levels of so-called 'good' cholesterol rising.
Steve Atkin, lead author of the study, suggested that it could mean a reduction in heart risk.
"Chocolate with a high cocoa content should be included in the diet of individuals with type II diabetes as part of a sensible, balanced approach to diet and lifestyle," BBC News quoted him as saying.
However, researchers at Diabetes UK said that the message would be interpreted as a 'green light' to eat more chocolate.
They pointed out that even bars with the highest levels of cocoa solids would contain high levels of fat and sugar, and could end up doing more harm than good.
Via : medindia
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