New research shows that you don’t have to feel guilty if you love chocolate.
In moderation, chocolate can reduce the risk of arrhythmia. The study is published in the scientific journal Heart.
Atrial fibrillation is characterized by rapid, irregular beating of the upper heart chambers (Atria). As a result, the flow of blood in the ventricles is disturbed. In patients with atrial fibrillation is five times more likely to develop stroke, and twice increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
For the prevention of atrial fibrillation need to stick to a healthy diet. Can chocolate be a part of this diet? New research suggests that Yes.
The study involved 55 000 people, who had measured the body mass index (BMI), cholesterol and blood pressure. Participants completed questionnaires on nutrition, health and lifestyle.
Researchers within 13.5 years of observation defined 3 346 cases of atrial fibrillation among the participants. The researchers found that those who consumed 1 to 3 ounce (28-85 g) of chocolate per month, 10% reduced risk of atrial fibrillation. Those who ate 1 ounce (28 grams) of chocolate per week, the risk was reduced by 17%, while participants who consumed 2 to 6 ounces (57-170 grams) per week, the risk was reduced by 20%.
The results show that small amounts of chocolate, especially dark chocolate, in which antioxidant levels may benefit the heart.
“Eating excessive amounts of chocolate can lead to weight gain and other metabolic problems,” warns Elizabeth Mostofsky (Elizabeth Mostofsky). “But moderate consumption of chocolate with high cocoa content can be a healthy choice.”
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