Dark chocolate and biological youth: a new study by British scientists reveals an unexpected connection
12 December 2025 21:17
British researchers have announced a new possible factor in slowing down biological aging – the chemical theobromine, naturally found in dark chocolate. Despite the potentially encouraging results, scientists emphasize that it is too early to draw practical conclusions for nutrition. This was reported by Euronews, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
What the scientists found out
A team of epigenomists from King’s College London found a correlation between higher levels of theobromine in the blood and lower biological age of participants. The study included more than 1,600 people in the UK and Germany.
According to senior author Jordan Bell, their goal is to track how certain everyday foods may be associated with slower aging. At the same time, she emphasizes that the study does not mean that people should increase their consumption of dark chocolate.
How it was measured
Biological age was determined by changes in DNA, in particular by analyzing epigenetic markers and telomere length, structures that shorten with aging. Participants with higher theobromine concentrations showed slower age-related changes.
Criticisms and warnings
Experts who did not participate in the study are cautious about the findings. Dimitrios Koutoukidis of the University of Oxford notes that it is not yet known whether changes in theobromine levels through nutrition really affect aging. Scientists also emphasize the need for more research to separate correlation from causation.
Theobromine is commonly mentioned among the beneficial components of cocoa along with antioxidants. Previously, dark chocolate was associated with potential benefits for the cardiovascular system. But experts warn that the high sugar and fat content of many chocolate products negates any theoretical benefits.
Demand for chocolate and cocoa products remains high: the recent boom in “Dubai chocolate” has even led to a global shortage of pistachios and a rise in their prices.
