Is Dark Chocolate A Healthy Dessert Option For People With Diabetes? (Image: Canva)
One of the most believed myths about people with type 2 diabetes is that all sweet are prohibited. So much so that on receiving your diagnosis, you might feel forced to say goodbye to all the post-dinner treats. However, it is important to understand that not all sweets are off-limits.
Some sweets are safe for people with type 2 diabetes. One of these is dark chocolate and a moderate amount may even bring health benefits.
According to the American Heart Association, certain antioxidant components of dark chocolates have also been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and insulin resistance. But that does not give you the permission to overdo it. Remember, portion control is always the key.
Anna Simos, CDCES, MPH, a certified diabetes care and education specialist at Stanford Health Care’s diabetes care program, while speaking to Everyday Health, said, "The antioxidants in chocolate help the body use its insulin more efficiently to help control blood sugar." She further explains, "This in turn helps lower blood sugar levels naturally and actually helps your body use your insulin. As a result, it helps decrease insulin resistance, which we see in type 2 diabetes."
Also, one antioxidant compound, which is present in dark chocolate - flavonols - may be beneficial. This is another win for people with diabetes, as these individuals are closer to the risk for heart disease.
A 2022 review found that people with normal or elevated blood pressure, consuming dark chocolate for two weeks or longer were associated with a decrease in blood pressure. And for those who ate dark chocolate with a high concentration of flavonols, the effect was greater.
However, when consuming dark chocolates, here are some tips to keep in mind.
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Portion Control, Always: With portion control, you will get some benefits of dark chocolate and this will also satisfy your craving for something sweet.
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Sprinkle Cocoa Nibbles On Yogurt: This is a smaller but probably the best way of getting the possible benefits of dark chocolate. To ensure your snack or dessert is extra diabetes-friendly, consider opting for plain, nonfat Greek yogurt — which is also packed with filling protein and gut-friendly bacteria known as probiotics.
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