Individuals who are suffering from liver cirrhosis may soon be finding their physicians prescribing them dark chocolate, as a new study suggests the snack offers health benefits that can help treat the disease.

According to research presented at the International Liver CongressTM 2010, eating dark chocolate can help reduce damage to blood vessels in cirrhotic patients as well as lower the blood pressure in the liver.

Scientists also discovered that white chocolate did not have the same health benefits as dark chocolate. Additionally, they found that the nutrients in dark chocolate may have an overall positive effect on the entire body.

The researchers are hopeful that this study will open the doors to different treatments for individuals who are interested in pursuing alternative health resources because they are hesitant to try prescription medication, which can sometimes have detrimental side effects.

“As well as advanced technologies and high science, it is important to explore the potential of alternative sources which can contribute to the overall wellbeing of a patient,” professor Mark Thursz said.