Compound In Cocoa May Delay Onset of Type-II Diabetes

The Benefits of Compounds in Chocolate

Research Into Cocoa and Type-II Diabetes

According to researchers by those at Brigham Young University, there could very well be a tie-in between certain compounds found in cocoa and producing more insulin. In addition to these studies suggesting the benefits of cocoa, blood glucose levels were also shown to become better managed overall. While this could very well sound like excellent news to some, the research did have some words of caution for individuals who may take this study out of context. According to the study found by those at Brigham Young University, it would take a considerable amount of cocoa, which is different than just a simple chocolate bar. It is the compound of of cocoa that is beneficial. This is not easily accomplished, as an individual would have to eat just the cocoa to reap the benefits of the compound found in cocoa. Producing proper insulin levels is on the mind of all diabetics keeping up with their health and day-after-day activities. The discovery of this was led by efforts of numerous researchers and collaborators at Virginia Tech. They gave the cocoa compound in mention to animals on a high-fat diet. What the researchers found was that when adding this to the high-fat diet, it would decrease the level of obesity in the animals. Thus, increasing the ability to manage increased blood glucose levels. Protection of these cells is vital in dealing with the increased oxidative stress levels. This in turn made the beta cells stronger and assisted in more of a cell's injury source, known as ATP. Studies related to the same research also indicated that these compound discoveries could assist in better ways to maintain normal blood glucose levels. This could even lead to a possible delay or even prevention of the onset of type-2 diabetes.

Food Cravings And Treats For Those With Type-2 Diabetes

Food cravings can be an issue for individuals with type-2 diabetes. Dealing with these cravings and overeating is oftentimes a struggle many people face. Cravings can occur for numerous reasons, generally related to physical hunger and emotional distress. These cravings can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels and weight gain. Avoiding this type of hunger can be addressed. In addition to physical hunger, emotional hunger can be caused from a plethora of reasons. All aspects of the body can be involved in the relationship between hunger and type-2 diabetes. Giving up certain foods can be an emotional experience for many of those with type-2 diabetes. Emotional food cravings can come at times of great stress or emotional turmoil. Anxiety, depression, stressful events, lonely feelings, and boredom can lead to overeating. Eating out of boredom can be the bane of existence for many of those suffering from type-2 diabetes. Foods with fast-acting carbs, sugary sweets, loads of fat, and pastries can lead to unhealthy glucose levels and serious issues with diabetes management at any type or level. In fact, eating these foods does not solve the true issue at hand, leading to increased hunger later on. Finding snacks and treats that are in accordance with type-2 diabetes guidelines is an important part of any diabetic diet. Although consulting with a health professional is advisable, there are generally foods that most recommend are healthy alternatives for those seeking out snacks and food. Simple changes can come from opting out of unhealthy snack foods in favor of healthier options. Berry smoothies, apples, hummus with veggies and diabetic friendly chips, string cheese, trail mix, and sugar-free dessert options can remedy hunger.

When Food Compounds Matter For Healthier Eating

Seeking Out Healthier Options

With recent studies pointing to the benefits of cocoa, there are recipes online from numerous reputable sources and snack options at the store for diabetic-friendly options. Sugar-free pudding, angel food cake, graham crackers, hot chocolate that is sugar-free, and sugar-free gelatin are just a few options for those looking for a sweet treat without giving in to extremes. A glass of regular milk or sugar-free chocolate milk could be a filling option for individuals without lactose intolerance problems or milk product allergy issues. In fact, studies have linked whole milk to a lower risk of diabetes and even the possible chance of lowering the risk of heart disease. To discover if your glucose levels rise after drinking milk, check your blood glucose levels around thirty minutes after drinking it. Try to choose milk that is free of hormones and if possible, grass-fed milk is the optimal choice for those with type-2 diabetes. Stocking up on sugar laden chocolate bars and other unhealthy sweets is not the healthy way to go, but a healthier snack or treat can keep blood sugar levels stable and insulin strikes at bay for many individuals facing the effects of type-2 diabetes. Although a few articles of research may point to milk as unhealthy, it can be a beneficial part to many diets if not overdone and consumed in healthy levels that do not impact kidney health and potassium levels over time.

Insulin Production and Cocoa

Eating a large amount of cocoa may sound like an easy feat to some, yet where to get this compound at can be confusing. A simple chocolate bar will not count and could even lead to increased spikes in insulin production and possible blood level spikes among those with type-2 diabetes. Producing healthy levels of insulin and managing blood glucose levels is essential for a healthier lifestyle and longevity. Researchers at the Brigham Young University found that when they looked at the compound and what went on at a cellular level, they found that cocoa compounds referred to as epicatechin monomers did indeed help in enhancing the beta cells' natural ability to secrete insulin. This study was made up of various undergraduate and graduate students at the Brigham Young University, in addition to professors of developmental biology and physiology. Although researchers have yet to find which ones are most beneficial on a cellular level and how they can indeed benefit those with type-2 diabetes, research continues to aid in the discovery of information relating to type-2 diabetes at any stage and how it can be managed with a healthier diet and access to proper healthcare.

Continued Research

With continued research over time, researchers are looking for ways to take out the compound from the cocoa. This could be extremely helpful, using the compound found in cocoa as a possible treatment for diabetes patients around the globe. With continued support from places like the Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation, grants continue to be given for research into better ways to manage insulin spikes and blood sugar levels. Delaying the onset of diabetes and dealing with symptoms continue to become more manageable with further research and studies. Finding ways to make beta cells stronger and utilizing the cells energy source bring scientists just one step closer to discovering ways to make diabetes controllable for millions. Seeking out similar compounds outside of cocoa and using that in combination with other knowledge has led to research picking up. Overall, a healthy diet and continued governance of diabetes symptoms can give patients a longer lifespan and an overall higher satisfaction for daily activities.