The Chocolate Cure: Cocoa Flavanols Combat Stress and High-Fat Diets

Latest Update: November 18, 2024

New research from the University of Birmingham reveals flavanol-rich cocoa’s protective effects on vascular health, even when paired with high-fat meals during stressful situations.

Key Takeaways

1. Flavanol-rich cocoa mitigates vascular damage: High-flavanol cocoa drinks counteract negative effects of high-fat foods on vascular health during stress.
2. Stress and high-fat foods: Combining stress with high-fat meals impairs vascular function and reduces oxygen delivery to the brain.
3. Flavanols promote cardiovascular health: Natural compounds in cocoa and green tea support vascular health during stressful periods.

Expert Insights

Dr. Catarina Rendeiro, University of Birmingham: “Flavanol-rich cocoa can help protect vascular health during stress.”
Rosalind Baynham: “Flavanols have health benefits, particularly for regulating blood pressure and cardiovascular health.”

What You Can Do

1. Choose high-flavanol cocoa: Opt for non-alkalized cocoa powder or dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids.
2. Balance your diet: Moderate high-fat food consumption with flavanol-rich foods.
3. Manage stress: Combine dietary strategies with stress-reducing techniques.

Stay Tuned

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Sources

1. University of Birmingham. (2024). Flavanol-rich cocoa protects vascular health.
2. Food and Function. (2024). Flavanol-rich cocoa mitigates vascular damage.