HERSHEY, Pa., Oct. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Eating dark chocolate can
result in short-term improvements in arterial function and blood pressure,
according to a new study conducted at Yale University's Prevention Research
Center and funded by The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY).
"This is the latest study to suggest a link between dark chocolate, which
contains natural flavanol antioxidants, and health benefits," said Dr. David
Katz, Associate Professor of Public Health at Yale, and Director of the
Prevention Research Center, who conducted the study. "The dark chocolate
tested in this trial improved blood pressure and arterial function. This
clearly suggests that dark chocolate isn't just good; it's good for you!"
The Yale study used ultrasound technology and sophisticated measurements
to assess the effects of eating high-cacao content dark chocolate,
Hershey's(R) Extra Dark, on the arterial function of 45 moderately overweight
adults. The study also measured subjects' blood pressure before and two hours
after eating two servings (74 grams) of dark chocolate. The study
demonstrated improvements in blood pressure, as well as the ability of blood
vessels to dilate and increase flow, a key indicator of cardiovascular health,
after eating dark chocolate. No such effects were seen with a low-flavanol
placebo. This is the first phase of an ongoing trial. Future phases will
explore the relationship between the consumption of dark chocolate and cocoa
and the potential for longer-term health benefits.
"We are extremely encouraged about these results indicating the link
between Hershey's Extra Dark and potential health benefits," said Thomas K.
Hernquist, Senior Vice President and President, US Confectionery, The Hershey
Company. "Hershey's Extra Dark is formulated with 60% cacao dark chocolate,
giving the product a deep, rich chocolate flavor and a higher level of natural
flavanol antioxidants. The dark chocolate category continues to grow at a
rapid rate as consumers discover the unique, bold taste of dark chocolate and
the fact that cocoa is a natural source of antioxidants."
"This study provides more evidence on the positive benefits of dark
chocolate," said Dr. Debra Miller, Senior Nutrition Scientist, The Hershey
Company. "Dark chocolate is a great choice for a treat, providing the
delicious taste of chocolate that people love with the added benefit of
natural flavanol antioxidants. Like all treats, it should be enjoyed in
moderation as part of a healthy, balanced diet."
About The Hershey Company
The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) is a leading snack food company and the
largest North American manufacturer of quality chocolate and non-chocolate
confectionery products. With revenues of over $4 billion and more than 13,000
employees worldwide, The Hershey Company markets such well-known brands as
Hershey's, Reese's, Hershey's Kisses, Kit Kat, Almond Joy, Mounds, Jolly
Rancher, Twizzlers, Ice Breakers, and Mauna Loa, as well as innovative new
products such as Take 5 and Hershey's Cookies. In addition to its traditional
confectionery products, Hershey offers a range of products specifically
developed to address the nutritional interests of today's health-conscious
consumer. These products include sugar-free Hershey's, Reese's and York
candies, as well as Hershey's SmartZone bars for people seeking balanced
nutrition. It also markets Hershey's cocoa, Hershey's syrup and other branded
baking ingredients, toppings and beverages. In addition, Artisan Confections
Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Hershey Company, markets premium
chocolate offerings, including Scharffen Berger, known for its high-cacao dark
chocolate products, and Joseph Schmidt, recognized for its fine, handcrafted
chocolate gifts. Visit us at http://www.hersheynewsroom.com.
SOURCE The Hershey Company
-0- 10/19/2005
/CONTACT: Stephanie L. Moritz, The Hershey Company, +1-717-534-7641, or
Cindy Urman, Dome HK, +1-312-836-2931/
/Web site: http://www.hersheys.com
http://www.hersheynewsroom.com /
(HSY)
CO: The Hershey Company; Yale University's Prevention Research Center
ST: Pennsylvania
IN: FOD EDU HED HEA
SU: SVY
FB
-- PHW011A --
7698 10/19/2005 08:00 EDT http://www.prnewswire.com
|
