Women sought to test chocolate

Scientists who believe chocolate may benefit some women with diabetes are seeking volunteers.

Researchers at the University of East Anglia (UAE) in Norwich want to test their theory by feeding special bars to 150 women every day for a year.

They believe that chocolate rich in a particular natural plant compound could help postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes ward off heart disease.

The scientists say flavonoids - found in cocoa and soy - have been shown to reduce heart disease risk factors.

A UAE spokesman said: "There are certain things we know we must do to reduce the risk of heart disease. Eating chocolate every day for a year is not normally one of them.

"However, in the first clinical trial of its kind, researchers at the UEA will be asking postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes to do just that."

He added: "Cocoa, the main ingredient of chocolate, is a rich source of compounds called flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce risk factors for heart disease. The process of making chocolate from cocoa destroys the majority of these compounds, however. Until now, that is.

"With the help of a Belgian chocolatier, a specially formulated chocolate bar has been developed for this study. It will provide a higher dose of the protective compounds in cocoa than found in standard chocolate.

"To maximise the potential benefits of the chocolate bar, soy has also been added. Soy is another great source of flavonoids, which have been shown to benefit the heart-health of women."

The UEA said the study was being funded by research group Diabetes UK and staff from the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and the Institute of Food Research would be involved.

"Despite postmenopausal women being at a similar risk to men for developing cardiovascular disease, to date they are under-represented in clinical trials," said Professor Aedin Cassidy, Professor of Diet and Health at UEA, who is heading the research project.

"We hope to show that adding flavonoids to their diets will provide additional protection from heart disease and give women the opportunity to take more control over reducing their risk of heart disease in the future."

Sources said the test bars have a "bitter" taste.

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