Heart HealthHeart Disease – More Good News For Chocolate Lovers
Good news for chocolate lovers, it may just increase your likelihood of surviving a heart attack. Yes, you did read that correctly. A recent joint study between the United States and Sweden looked a chocolate consumption for individuals 12 months prior to having a heart attack. They found individuals who consumed chocolate twice a week to be 66% less likely to die from the heart attack.
I honestly can’t believe money was invested in this research, but the findings are interesting. Not only did they look at the 12 months prior to a heart attack they also followed the 1,169 study participants for eight years. The data showed as chocolate intake increased over the eight year period death from cardiac causes decreased. A 27% reduced risk was found for those who occasionally consumed chocolate (less than once a month) and 44% reduced for individuals consuming chocolate once a week.
We’ve heard the benefits of dark chocolate before and how dark chocolate is high in antioxidants. This study did not differentiate between dark and milk chocolate intake. However, Swedish milk chocolate contains about twice the level of cocoa solids found in US dark chocolate.
Tired of changes that don't last?
Just don’t forget the antioxidants found in some forms of chocolate come with a big negative – added fat and calories. Moderation, moderation, moderation!
Please share your comments and thoughts below!
All the best,
Lisa Nelson, RD
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