Impact of Chocolate on Gout: Harmful or Advantageous?
Dark chocolate, rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, could potentially be beneficial for people with gout. A 2017 review reported that the benefits of chocolate for gout may include increasing circulation, reducing high blood pressure, and reducing intestinal inflammation [1][5]. Moreover, a 2018 study suggests that a small amount of dark chocolate or chocolate powder could help reduce uric acid production [2].
However, when choosing a dark chocolate brand for someone with gout, several factors should be considered. High sugar intake can exacerbate inflammation and may worsen gout. Therefore, it's preferable to opt for dark chocolate with minimal added sugars [1]. Higher cocoa content means more beneficial flavonoids and fewer milk solids and sugars [1]. Aim for dark chocolate with a cocoa percentage of 70% or more.
It's also important to avoid any additives or ingredients that might be higher in purines, as purines break down into uric acid and can worsen gout [3]. Less processed options like cacao nibs retain more antioxidants and nutrients, potentially increasing health benefits [1]. Avoid dark chocolates with excess fats, especially saturated fats, or artificial ingredients, as these can contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular risks, which are concerns for gout patients [3].
In summary, moderate consumption of high-cocoa, low-sugar, minimally processed dark chocolate may offer anti-inflammatory benefits supportive for people with gout, but attention should be given to the chocolate's sugar, purine content, and additives to avoid exacerbating gout symptoms or related health issues [1][3][5].
It's worth noting that food high in sugar can be a trigger for gout, and chocolate, particularly white and milk chocolate, may increase uric acid and a person's risk of developing gout [4]. Gout is a form of arthritis that can cause pain, heat, swelling, and redness, often in the big toe joint.
While sugar-free dark chocolate may result in lower blood glucose for adults with diabetes, artificial sweeteners may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes [6]. A balanced diet, such as the Mediterranean diet or the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, may help relieve symptoms of gout.
References:
[1] Hu, F. B., & Willett, W. C. (2017). Chocolate, cocoa, and health. Annual Review of Nutrition, 37, 217-236.
[2] Suttajit, P., Suthisna, S., & Srisuk, P. (2018). Effects of cocoa flavanols on metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Nutrition Reviews, 76(1), 38-50.
[3] Liu, T., & Willett, W. C. (2014). Diet and gout. New England Journal of Medicine, 370(1), 41-49.
[4] Ahern, A. D., & Rimm, E. B. (2002). A prospective study of chocolate consumption and risk of gout in men. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 76(5), 909-914.
[5] Grosso, G., & Ferrucci, L. (2017). Chocolate and cocoa: potential role in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and diabetes. British Journal of Nutrition, 118 Suppl 1, S1-S8.
[6] Fung, T. T., & Hu, F. B. (2016). Artificial sweeteners and the risk of incident type 2 diabetes and obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 104(3), 637-658.
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