Does dark chocolate reduce the risk of stroke?

There is some evidence that eating dark chocolate may contribute to a reduced risk of stroke. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that may have positive effects on heart and blood vessel health.

These flavonoids from dark chocolate are said to help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation, all of which contribute to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, including stroke.

Some studies have shown that moderate consumption of dark chocolate may be associated with a lower risk of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. However, it is important to emphasize that while dark chocolate has potential health benefits, it is also high in calories and sugar. Excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and other health problems. Therefore, it is essential to consume chocolate in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Dark chocolate may help reduce the risk of stroke, but it is not a substitute for other healthy lifestyle choices such as regular exercise, a healthy diet and avoiding smoking.

Source: https://heart.bmj.com/content/101/16/1279

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-12-09 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024