Good news arrives just before Valentine’s Day. Chocolate is good for diabetes, but it depends on the type of chocolate.

Difference Between Dark and Milk Chocolate

The difference between dark and milk chocolate is more than the added milk. Dark chocolate contains more cacao and less sugar than milk chocolate. Cacao is the raw, unprocessed form of cocoa.

What the Research Shows

Studies show potential benefits of dark chocolate for diabetes.

One study revealed that participants who ate dark chocolate had a lower risk of developing diabetes. The British Medical Journal’s research indicated that participants who consumed about 5 ounces of dark chocolate weekly had a lower risk of type 2 diabetes than those who rarely ate chocolate.

However, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) warns, “It is important to note that studies like these highlight overall patterns. For example, those who eat dark chocolate may also have other healthy lifestyle choices, like an eating plan or activity level that lowers their risk of developing diabetes. It does not mean you should start eating dark chocolate to reduce your risk of diabetes (https://diabetesfoodhub.org/blog/can-people-diabetes-eat-chocolate).”

Dark chocolate may also lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance:

Researchers studied 433 diabetic patients to see how eating cocoa or chocolate affected their cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure. The study found that eating cocoa or dark chocolate lowered fasting blood sugar and LDL cholesterol (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34089280/).

The Modern Sport journal features a study examining the effects of 85% dark chocolate on insulin resistance, stress hormones, and potassium regulation. The study had 162 individuals aged between 40 and 60 years old. There were two groups: one without insulin resistance and another group with insulin resistance. After 45 days, subjects showed improved fasting glucose, lower cortisol, and higher serotonin and potassium levels (https://jcopew.uobaghdad.edu.iq/journal/vol23/iss2/4/).

Other Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate’s flavonoids are potentially good for the heart because they improve blood vessel flow. Flavonoids are also antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage. And dark chocolate contains minerals such as magnesium. Type 2 diabetics often have low magnesium levels due to increased urinary loss.

You’ve heard that eating chocolate triggers chemical reactions in the brain that mimic the feelings of falling in love. This is because of its Phenethylamine (PEA) content, which triggers endorphins and serotonin, boosting mood. Even Cupid needs a little help sometimes.

Ways to Add More Dark Chocolate to Your Diet

Adding more dark chocolate to your diet might be beneficial. However, remember that greater cacao content signifies higher fat. Also, limit added ingredients like caramel and toffee, which contain sugar.

· Choose chocolate with 70% or more cocoa

· Drink unsweetened cocoa powder, which is 100% cacao

· Add cacao nibs to yogurt, fruit, smoothies, and pancake batter

Conclusion

Unlike milk chocolate, dark chocolate may be beneficial for diabetes. This does not imply that eating dark chocolate will prevent diabetes. However, studies suggest its polyphenols could reduce fasting blood sugar and decrease insulin resistance. There are also benefits to the heart, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Quotes on Chocolate

• All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt – Charles M. Schulz
• Reminiscent of childhood memories, luxury, sweetness, and sensuality, chocolate is more than just a food—it is therapy – Christelle Le Ru
• Chocolate symbolizes, as does no other food, luxury, comfort, sensuality, gratification, and love – Karl Petzke
• When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile – Regina Brett

Disclaimer

Please remember this is not medical advice or intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Always check with your healthcare provider before trying new treatments.

Also, natural does not mean safe. Many natural remedies have side effects and can interact with medications and supplements. It should be noted that the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements but treats them like foods and not medication. Unlike drug manufacturers, supplement makers do not have to show their products are safe or effective.

I ask you to please keep an open mind; be a diabetic detective and do your own research; work with your healthcare team; see what works best for you, and monitor your blood sugars.