Can Dark Chocolate Really Stop Aging?
According to a recent study, dark chocolate and red wine could be more beneficial for our health than we think. Both contain a rare compound known as resveratrol which has been associated with anti-aging benefits. Resveratrol is an antioxidant and phytoestrogen that can interact with estrogen receptors in a positive way. The compound can be found in abundance in the skin of red grapes and dark berries, as well as red wine and dark chocolate.
BMC Cell Biology, a well-known biology journal, recently published a study which revealed that resveratrol can “revive” old cells. The study was conducted at the University of Exeter and used previous research as a base for the study. Previous studies revealed that our splicing factors become inactive as we grow old and can be reactivated with resveralogues, which even make the old inactive cells able to divide again. It’s a stunning discovery that may change everything we know about aging.
Doctors Eva Lattore and Lorna Harries were impressed with the benefits of resveratrol. Dr. Lattore says she couldn’t believe when she saw the old cells revived. They looked like young cells in tests – it was almost magical! The potential of this research is beyond imagination, although there’s a long way ahead of scientists before anything is confirmed.
Future Plans
After the discovery, scientists are hard at work to study the exact mechanisms used by resveratrol to revive old cells. They are now trying to find out if the changes in the splicing factor levels can rescue cells from dying. Scientists from Harvard Medical School have also looked into the potential of resveratrol as an anti-aging “remedy”. As it helps revive old cells and is found in red wine and dark chocolate, moderate consumption of both can at least stop aging.
Resveratrol was found to boost the production of SIRT1, a serum that can prevent numerous diseases by boosting the cell’s mitochondria (energy production center). The potential of resveratrol is really incredible and if studied thoroughly, scientists may be able to find a way to stop aging altogether.
The Impressive Properties of Resveratrol
Resveratrol is unique in its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. This means that it can protect the brain and nervous system from damage. One British study revealed that resveratrol can boost the blood flow to the brain, highlighting its amazing neuroprotective effects. With proper research, resveratrol could potentially be used as a future cure for mental and cognitive problems.
Other studies have revealed that the antioxidant can help in the treatment of diabetes, obesity, digestive problems, and even depression.
How Much Red Wine You Should Consume?
Just because red wine is rich in resveratrol it doesn’t mean you should get drunk on it every day. As a matter of fact, scientists say that only moderate consumption of red wine will provide all the benefits of resveratrol. So, a glass or two of quality red wine per day should be more than enough. The resveratrol in the drink will significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia, as well as depression and insulin resistance.
What About Dark Chocolate?
Just like with red wine, moderate consumption of dark chocolate is the only way to get all the benefits of resveratrol. Besides providing your body with resveratrol, dark chocolate will also fill you up with fiber and important minerals. Consume up to 100 gr. of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) every day to boost your blood flow and prevent a variety of cardiovascular problems.
Apart from this, dark chocolate will also improve the quality of your skin and make you look younger, while also boosting the function of your brain.
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