Previous studies suggest that dark chocolate, rich in antioxidant polyphenols, may contribute to heart health and boost immunity. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that cause cell damage) associated with degenerative diseases, heart disease and aging.
Now research reports that polyphenol extract from cocoa powder may decrease the risk of tooth decay. Scientists suggest that chocolate polyphenols be added to toothpaste.
Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by mouth bacteria and bacterial plaque formation in the tissue surrounding the teeth. Cocoa polyphenols may protect against mouth bacteria and tooth decay. However, chocolate bars loaded with fat and sugar don’t have the same health benefits.
Chocolate Study
The study, published in Fitoterapia, investigated the components in cocoa, coffee and tea that can prevent tooth decay. Researchers at the University of Naples, Italy treated several strains of oral streptococci (bacteria found in oral plaque) with polyphenols extracted from cocoa, tea and coffee. They found that the polyphenols prevented the growth of plaque bacteria.
Comments
“The anti-cariogenic effects against α-haemolytic streptococci showed by polyphenols from cocoa, coffee, and tea suggest further studies to a possible application of these beverages in the prevention of pathogenesis of dental caries,” the study authors write.
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