Health

Eating dark chocolate protects the brain from stroke – doctor Alekhina

Eating dark chocolate protects the brain from stroke - Dr. Alekhina

The sweet treat contains a compound that helps protect nerve cells from damage.


A stroke is a serious and potentially fatal medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is cut off. In most cases it is caused by a blood clot, but it can also be due to a ruptured blood vessel.

There are a number of factors that can increase your risk of having a stroke. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are two such factors that can be associated with unhealthy lifestyles such as unhealthy diet and lack of exercise.

There are foods that can protect you from the risk of stroke. The doctor recommended eating dark chocolate to reduce the risk of stroke.

Chocolate reduces the risk of ischemia, stroke and diabetes – scientists

“Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which have been shown to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, which may reduce the risk of stroke. Flavonoids are antioxidants that protect cells from damage and inflammation. Inflammation can lead to thickening and stiffening of the artery walls, which increases the risk of a stroke. Flavonoids also help relax blood vessels, which improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure,” neurologist Alexandra Alekhina tells MedicForum, a neurologist.
However, the neurologist warned that you should look for dark chocolate with at least 70 percent cocoa. Milk chocolate and white chocolate do not have the same health benefits.

Two pieces of chocolate a day protect against stroke

A study also found that animals that preventively those who took epicatechin suffered significantly less brain damage than those who were not given the compound.

Important! Information provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first sign of illness, consult a doctor.