Eating chocolate SLASHES risk of dying young by 12 per cent, major study reveals

EATING chocolate cuts the danger of dying young by 12 per cent, a study says.

Regular consumers’ risk of fatal heart disease or cancer falls by up to 16 per cent.

1

Fans who munch the equivalent of two Dairy Milk bars a week were four times less likely to suffer diabetes than those who eat none.

Experts say chocolate can lower bad cholesterol and blood pressure and, to cap it all, devotees tend to be slimmer and more active.

Scientists say compounds in cocoa known as flavonoids boost the health of blood vessels.

Prof Jiaqi Huang, of the US National Cancer Institute in Maryland, said the study may “partially allay concerns regarding adverse health outcomes from low-to-moderate chocolate consumption”.

READ MORE HEALTH NEWS

RISK ALERT

Warning as study finds common complaint could be early sign of deadly cancer

OUT OF HAND

I’m only 28 but my hands look like they belong to a GRANDMA - strangers ask why

Most read in The Sun

LIAM'S BOY

Heartbreaking 'Daddy' floral tribute from Liam's son Bear is spotted at funeral

CHERYL'S GOODBYE

Sombre Cheryl joins raft of A-list mourners at ex Liam Payne's funeral

FAMILY'S FAREWELL

Liam’s grieving family say goodbye to their ‘little boy’ at funeral

THERE FOR HER

Girls Aloud stars support Cheryl at Liam's funeral in 'perfect service'

The British Heart Foundation said the study was not conclusive enough for it to recommend eating chocolate to lessen heart disease risk.

It said: “It’s fine to treat yourself now and again, but no single food or nutrient is more important than an overall balanced healthy diet.”