Study participants consuming as little as 860 milligrams of polyphenol-rich dark chocolate, experienced a 20 pecent decrease in DNA damage just two hours after consumption. Dark chocolate also contains epicatechin, a polyphenol renowned for it’s anti-cancer anti-oxidant and DNA protective properties.
Short But Sweet
Epicatechin (polyphenol) blood levels measured two hours after consumption of dark chocolate were considerably lower, suggesting that small, frequent doses of polyphenols were optimal. That’s not so bad considering that some prescription medicines need to be taken 3-4 times per day!
Conclusion?
Dark chocolate represents yet another non-pharmacological way of preventing cancer, heart disease and protecting our DNA.
If Not Chocolate Then What?
Polyphenols are abundant. If you are allergic to chocolate or simply choose to not eat it, other rich sources of polyphenols are available.
If all else fail, consider taking supplemental polyphenol nutrients.
Life is sweet after all!
Source: British Journal of Nutrition
Published online ahead of print, First View article, doi: 10.1017/S0007114509992698
“Effect of dark chocolate on plasma epicatechin levels DNA resistance to oxidative stress and total antioxidant activity in healthy subjects”
Authors: A. Spadafranca, C. Martinez Conesa, S. Sirini and G. Testolin
Denise Dunzweiler
02. Aug, 2010
LOVE IT! I should be healthy! Small, frequent doses of dark chocolate is what my doctor prescribes! Gotta love my Dr. Friesen!!
Denise Dunzweiler
02. Aug, 2010
Can I forward this, or other articles, to my friends? How?
Thank you.