Do you like chocolate, coffee, or wine? Scientists have good news for you

Scientists emphasize that there is good news for chocolate, coffee, and wine lovers. Studies have found that these treats can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

A survey of more than 6,000 people found a link between diets that included fruits, vegetables, chocolate, coffee, and wine and a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome. Although similar studies have already been conducted, none of them were as large-scale, Newsweek writes.

According to scientists, metabolic syndrome is a set of conditions that occur together, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels, which leads to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Analysis of data from 6387 participants collected as part of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health.

According to The Cleveland Clinic, polyphenol-rich foods, including red wine, vegetables, whole grains, chocolate, coffee, green tea, and fruits, are widely consumed by consumers and are beneficial.

Study co-author Isabela Benseñor of the University of São Paulo said the results are "good news for people who like fruits, chocolate, coffee, and wine, which are rich in polyphenols."

Benseñor emphasized that while similar findings have been made in previous studies, none had as many participants or were followed for as long.

"Our findings in this study leave no doubt: promoting diets rich in polyphenols can be a valuable strategy to reduce the risk of cardiometabolic disease and prevent metabolic syndrome," she said.

Over more than eight years of follow-up, the study found that participants experienced 2,031 cases of metabolic syndrome, but those who consumed more foods and beverages high in polyphenols were 22-23% less likely to develop metabolic syndrome, experts say.

The study also found that higher polyphenol intake was associated with a lower waist-to-hip ratio, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

The results of the analysis show that diets rich in polyphenols can reduce cardiometabolic risk and prevent metabolic syndrome in society, doctors emphasize.

However, nutritionist Stephanie Dunne of Nutrition QED emphasized that wine, chocolate, and coffee "are still treats that can harm the body if consumed in excess, so they should be consumed occasionally if someone wants to achieve true health."

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