A recent study has uncovered surprising findings about the potential health benefits of consuming dark chocolate. While many people tend to avoid chocolate due to its high sugar and fat content, this new research suggests that dark chocolate could actually help reduce the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. The study, published in the Food Bioscience journal, revealed that a chemical called polyphenols found in dark chocolate and various plant-based foods could play a key role in lowering these health risks.
Polyphenols, which are known for their bitterness and are found in cocoa, interact with the bitter taste receptors on the tongue, specifically the type 2 taste receptors (T2R). Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology in Japan have discovered that the activation of T2R by polyphenols in the gastrointestinal tract triggers the secretion of hormones like cholecystokinin (CCK) and incretins such as GLP-1. These hormones are crucial in decreasing appetite and regulating blood sugar levels, which can aid in reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Professor Naomi Osakabe elaborated on the significance of these findings, stating, “The bitterness of polyphenols helps to reduce the risk of diabetes and its complications through T2R activation.†Despite polyphenols remaining unabsorbed in the body, the study highlights how they promote the secretion of gastrointestinal hormones by activating bitter taste receptors on digestive secretory cells, ultimately helping regulate blood sugar levels and appetite.
It is worth noting that polyphenols are not exclusive to dark chocolate; they are also present in various plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. According to the Cleveland Clinic, other polyphenol-rich foods besides dark chocolate include apples, berries, broccoli, green tea, and turmeric, among others. Individuals concerned about their weight or diabetes risk are advised to consult with their GP for personalized advice on incorporating polyphenol-rich foods into their diet to support their overall health and well-being.