Chocolate is 'as good as exercise'

It is the news that chocoholics have been waiting for: Chocolate is as good as exercise, a new study has claimed.

Scientists at Wayne State University in the US found that small amounts of dark chocolate may improve health in a similar way to exercise.

The researchers who focused on the mitochondria -- the tiny powerhouses in cells that generate energy -- discovered that a plant compound found in chocolate, called epicatechin, appeared to stimulate the same muscle response as vigorous activity, the Daily Telegraph reported.

"Mitochondria produce energy which is used by the cells in the body. More mitochondria mean more energy is produced the more work can be performed,"said Dr Moh Malek, who led the research on mice.

"Aerobic exercise, such as running or cycling, is known to increase the number of mitochondria in muscle cells,"Dr Malek said.

"Our study has found that epicatechin seems to bring about the same response for more details....http://www.indiareport.com/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/1085552/Health/10/11/10