Drinking Cocoa May Help Shield Your Body From Fatty Foods and Stress

Stress often drives us to indulge in foods that aren’t healthy, but scientists have found a surprising way to counteract the negative effects: pairing high-fat meals with antioxidant-rich cocoa.

Stress, even in short bursts, can temporarily harm arterial function. Eating fatty foods may feel comforting but can worsen cardiovascular stress, delaying recovery.

However, there’s good news. A study from the University of Birmingham showed that drinking high-flavanol cocoa can improve vascular function after a high-fat meal and stress.

The study involved 23 adults who ate a fatty meal of croissants, butter, cheese, and whole milk, followed by a mental math test to induce stress. Half the group drank high-flavanol cocoa, while the other half consumed a low-flavanol version. In a second session, they swapped beverages.

After the meal and stress test, researchers observed that the participants’ brachial and carotid arteries showed changes in diameter. Those who drank low-flavanol cocoa experienced slower recovery in the brachial artery, continuing to show impaired blood flow for up to 90 minutes. This impairment has been linked to a 9-13% increased risk of cardiovascular events.

High-Flavanol Cocoa Boosts Recovery in Brachial Artery, First Study to Show Cocoa’s Role in Counteracting Stress-Induced Vascular Decline

However, those who drank high-flavanol cocoa saw improved recovery in the brachial artery. The researchers noted that this is the first study showing cocoa’s potential to counteract stress-induced vascular decline.

Most people don’t consume enough flavanols, which are found in foods like berries, tea, and nuts. The study suggests that high-flavanol cocoa could improve cardiovascular health, supporting previous research on flavanols’ benefits for both heart and brain function.

The study’s results, using a dose equivalent to two cups of green tea, 5.5 tablespoons of unprocessed cocoa, or 300 grams of berries, suggest that small dietary changes can help manage stress and improve vascular health.

While the study didn’t find evidence of cognitive benefits from high-flavanol cocoa, further research is needed. The findings still offer a strategy for mitigating the impact of unhealthy foods during stressful times.

Read Original Article: Science Alert

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