Random controlled trials in a new meta-study looked at the effect of consuming cocoa on cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Cocoa use was associated with varying degrees of improvement in total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose, reported Medical News Today.
Additionally, the researchers discovered that the consumption of cocoa had no influence on triglycerides, waist circumference, body weight, body mass index (BMI), “good” HDL cholesterol, or HbA1c, a crucial diabetes indicator.Cocoa likely to lower blood pressure cholesterol risk.
Accounting for one in every five fatalities in 2021, heart disease is the leading cause of death across all population categories in the United States, according to the US Centers for Disease Control. It impacts women, men, and every ethnic and racial group.
“Noted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, flavanols, and other polyphenolic compounds, cocoa is a good source of these compounds that can support cardiovascular health,” stated Michelle Routhenstein, a preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com, who was not involved in the new study.Cocoa likely to lower blood pressure.
She added: “Cocoa is rich in flavonoids including epicatechin, which is a compound that helps to support nitric oxide-rich pools in the body which help to support heart and blood vessel health.”
However, increased use of cocoa may impact people with diabetes and is not likely to be good for most people. It is essential to consult your medical expert before changing your diet.
Disclaimer: This may not work for everyone. Consult your doctor before trying this out.
