A recent study has found a link between consuming dark chocolate and a reduced risk of obesity and diabetes. Published in the Food Bioscience journal, the study revealed that a chemical naturally present in various plant-based foods, known as polyphenols, may play a role in decreasing appetite and regulating blood sugar levels. Dark chocolate, which has high levels of polyphenols compared to milk chocolate, was specifically highlighted in the research.
Polyphenols interact with bitter taste receptors on the tongue, triggering the secretion of hormones in the gastrointestinal tract that can help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology in Japan discovered that the activation of type 2 taste receptors (T2R) by polyphenols leads to the secretion of gastrointestinal hormones like cholecystokinin (CCK) and incretins such as GLP-1, which are known to decrease appetite and regulate blood sugar levels.
Professor Naomi Osakabe from Shibaura Institute noted that these gastrointestinal hormones play a crucial role in controlling eating behaviour and maintaining glucose tolerance, potentially reducing the risk of diabetes and its complications. The study emphasised that polyphenols, even when unabsorbed, can promote the release of gastrointestinal hormones by activating bitter taste receptors on digestive secretory cells, thus aiding in blood sugar regulation and appetite control.
While dark chocolate is a prominent source of polyphenols, they can also be found in various other plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. The Cleveland Clinic suggests including foods such as apples, berries, broccoli, green tea, and turmeric in a polyphenol-rich diet.
For individuals concerned about weight management or diabetes risk, consulting a GP is recommended to discuss dietary strategies incorporating polyphenol-rich foods. This research highlights the potential benefits of polyphenols in mitigating the risks associated with obesity and diabetes through blood sugar regulation and appetite control.