A study funded by Diabetes UK involving taking flavonoid rich chocolate resulted in a beneficial clinical effect.
93 postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes aged between 51 and 74 took part in the trial. Half were given two small bars of flavonoid-enriched chocolate each day and half were given placebo chocolate bars. Those receiving the extra flavonoids reduced their risk of suffering a heart attack in the next decade by 3.4% and also reduced their cholesterol levels.
This showed that diet has a beneficial clinical effect over and above the normal drug treatment.
The researchers were at pains to point out that the chocolate used was not like the commercially produced bars which put on weight and can adversely effect diabetes.
There are various foods that contain flavonoids such as tea, red wine, fruits and vegetables and dark chocolate.
Further studies are now needed to see if other foods have the same effect and whether men would benefit also.
So the message is a little dark chocolate may be a good thing after all.
FLU VACCINATION INFORMATION
This year GGHB is running the flu vaccination service.
If you are over 65, then please wait for your letter from the NHS. That will give you the date, time and venue . (Younger patients e.g. 65 year olds are being vaccinatedfirst) It’s also important to point out that the over 65 vaccine is different from the one given to the under 65’s and also different from the one that may be available on a private basis. The under 65’s at risk e.g. asthmatics those with diabetes etc willeither be done at their GP practice or again at a hub.
If you are under 65 and a carer please contact the pharmacy on 0141 633 3868 or admin@newlifepharmacy.co.uk where you can book in for a vaccine. Unfortunately our private service is at capacity just now and we have a waiting list