Dark chocolate could boost longevity – cut risk of cardiovascular disease

Characterised by rich and decadent flavour, dark chocolate offers more than a tasty treat.

Packed with cocoa solids, the sweet snack could help stave off some major longevity-threatening health problems, including cardiovascular disease.

The path to a longer life is often jeopardised by serious health conditions, ranging from diabetes to dementia.

However, the small treat could help complement your health as well as your taste buds.

Rohini Bajekal, Nutritionist and Board-Certified Lifestyle Medicine Professional at Plant Based Health Professionals, said: “Flavanols, plant nutrients with heart-protective benefits, are found in many foods but are abundant in raw cacao, which is used to make chocolate. 

“Cacao is an excellent source of magnesium, iron, copper, manganese and antioxidants which reduce damage to cells.

“A single serve of cocoa powder provides more flavonoid antioxidants than most Americans consume in an entire day eating their regular diet. 

“The higher the percentage of cocoa, the more active compounds that are present to provide health benefits to the consumer.”

This means that to reap the plentiful benefits you should reach for dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa solids.

The expert explained that you want to go for chocolates between 70 and 90 percent. 

What’s more, enjoying this sweet snack could cut your risk of cardiovascular problems and diabetes.

Bajekal said: “Short-term studies also show that flavanol intake can improve insulin sensitivity which could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. 

“There is a significant correlation between consumption of cacao and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, dementia, type 2 diabetes and overall mortality.

“It’s theorised that this is due to the protective nature of the antioxidants found in cacao, however, larger studies are certainly needed.”

You can find out more about plant-based health this fall at Plant Based Health Professionals event VegMed.