WHILE it seems that the health benefits of red wine and dark chocolate are pretty much beyond doubt, more good news is always welcome - so here it is.
Researchers in Australia have found that flavonoids, chemicals present in dark-coloured fruits, orange citrus, tea, red wine and dark chocolate, may help improve insulin resistance.
The team from the Australian National University looked at data from Australian health and nutrition surveys, and discovered a link between intake of these foods and lower insulin resistance - a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions.
Meanwhile, previous research has linked flavonoid intake with benefits for cancer and blood pressure.
The authors noted that the study can't prove the flavonoids are the reason for the link, but they were able to show evidence of flavonoids tackling insulin resistance in cells in a lab, and have called for large-scale prospective cohort studies or randomised controlled trials.
"Our study highlights the importance of appropriately increasing dietary flavonoid intake when improving insulin resistance," they concluded - that word "appropriately" sadly knocking any ideas of overindulgence on the head.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 08 Dec 25
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