In both cases, too much sugar can stay in the bloodstream.
Over time, this excessive blood sugar can be linked to health concerns likeheart disease,vision lossandkidney disease.
Phipps attributes this to the fat and fiber that is found in certain varieties of chocolate.
Brie Passano
They’re also higher in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants."
Cocoa is noteworthy because it contains polyphenols, or plant compounds, that can benefit human health.
In fact, cocoa beans are one of thebest-known sources of dietary polyphenols.
White chocolate contains cocoa butter, milk and sugar with no cocoa solids.
Milk chocolate is typically made with cocoa butter, sugar, milk powder, lecithin and cocoa.
Unfortunately for white and milk chocolate lovers, chocolate varieties with less cocoa may not provide the same benefits.
Here are some benefits that people may experience if they include dark chocolate in their diet.
These findings highlight how including high-cocoa chocolate can have a positive effect on heart health.
Cocoa might help improve glucose control byslowing carbohydrate digestion and absorption in the gut.
Plus, some evidence suggests that cocoa mayimprove insulin sensitivity.
Here are some tips on how to choose the best chocolate for diabetes.
(Check out ourguide to sugar substitutesto better understand what may be the best fit for you.)
Choosing chocolate that has protein-rich mix-ins, like nuts, can be a great choice for people with diabetes.
Large quantities of added sugar can contribute to high blood sugars and diabetes complications over time.
Cocoa processed with alkali, or Dutched cocoa, tends tohave fewer beneficial plant compounds.
And remember, white chocolate is cocoa-free, so any cocoa-related health benefits may not apply.
