Dark Chocolate Almost as Good for You as Exercise

Eating small amounts of dark chocolate high in cocoa can boost your health in ways similar to exercise, according to new research. Scientists from Wayne State University found that a powerful compound found in chocolate -- called epicatechin -- appears to stimulate muscle tissue mitochondria in the same way as vigorous exercise.

According to head researcher Dr Moh Malek:

"Mitochondria produce energy which is used by the cells in the body. More mitochondria mean more energy is produced and more work can be performed... Aerobic exercise, such as running or cycling, is known to increase the number of mitochondria in muscle cells. Our study has found that epicatechin seems to bring about the same response - particularly in the heart and skeletal muscles."

In the study, middle-aged mice appeared to get the biggest benefit from the chocolate/cocoa supplementation. According to doctor Malek epicatechin supplementation combined with regular vigorous exercise may be a powerful combination for preventing/slowing muscle ageing. Experts say that more research is needed in order to confirm that chocolate provides similar benefits in humans.

We say: This is great! Now we have another excuse to buy pounds and pounds of dark chocolate at Trader Joe's! :D

Learn some mo': Chocolate 'as good for you as exercise'