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Chocolate as Good for You as Exercise
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Chocolate 'as good for you as exercise' Scientists found that small amounts of dark chocolate may improve health in a similar way to exercise. The researchers focused on the mitochondria, the tiny powerhouses in cells that generate energy, and discovered that a plant compound found in chocolate, called epicatechin, appeared to stimulate the same muscle response as vigorous activity. Dr Moh Malek, from Wayne State University in Detroit, who led the US study on mice, said: ''Mitochondria produce energy which is used by the cells in the body. More mitochondria mean more energy is produced the 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.''
A specific type of epicatechin from cocoa was given to mice twice a day for 15 days.
The scientists hope their research will lead to better ways of combating age-related muscle wasting. Middle-aged mice who both exercised and ate epicatechin showed an even greater benefit.
''It appears epicatechin treatment combined with exercised could be a viable means to offset muscle ageing,'' said Dr Malek. |
Scientists found that small amounts of dark chocolate may improve health in a similar way to exercise. The researchers focused on the mitochondria, the tiny powerhouses in cells that generate energy, and discovered that a plant compound found in chocolate, called epicatechin, appeared to stimulate the same muscle response as vigorous activity.