Decadent Dark Chocolate: A Treasure Trove of Antioxidants
Recent medical research highlights the significant health benefits of flavanols found in cocoa. Flavanols are a type of antioxidant, which are vital because they help neutralize excess oxygen in the body that, while necessary for life, can damage cells when not properly utilized.
These flavanols are naturally present in cocoa, the main ingredient in chocolate. However, traditional chocolate manufacturing often removes flavanols due to their bitter taste, and many cocoa processors do the same.
Clinical evidence shows that flavanols in cocoa can help lower blood pressure, leading to better cardiovascular health. Even small reductions in blood pressure can significantly decrease the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Consuming flavanol-rich cocoa has an almost immediate effect on blood pressure. Researchers are still studying whether these benefits persist over time.
In 2006, a study by the National Academy of Sciences found that flavanols boost the body’s production of nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow to the brain and other essential organs. This relaxation also reduces blood pressure, easing the heart’s workload.
A case study compared the blood pressure of Kuna Indians in Panama. Those on the San Blas islands, who regularly drink cocoa, had lower blood pressure compared to those who moved to the mainland and consumed less cocoa. It was found that most island inhabitants over age 60 had normal blood pressure, whereas more than 50% of Americans over 60 have high blood pressure.
In July 2012, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) confirmed that flavanol-rich cocoa benefits circulation and blood pressure. The EFSA recommended consuming 2.5 grams of flavanol-rich cocoa daily for these positive effects, noting that it should be part of a balanced diet.
Flavanols are also present in other foods like tea, onions, and broccoli, but in much smaller amounts than in cocoa. You would need to consume large quantities of these foods to match the flavanol content in just one cup of cocoa.
There’s no doubt that drinking cocoa with high flavanol content is beneficial for health. However, it’s crucial to balance it with other aspects of your diet. For instance, if you prepare cocoa with milk, opt for low-fat instead of full-fat milk to maximize the health benefits.
