For centuries, people have turned to chocolate in hopes of boosting heart health. The allure of this sweet treat lies in its potential benefits, which have been the subject of numerous scientific studies. One notable investigation, the Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), delved into the effects of cocoa flavanols on heart health. The study identified a 27% reduction in cardiovascular-related deaths among participants consuming 500 milligrams of cocoa flavanols over 3.6 years. Despite these promising findings, the intricate relationship between cocoa flavanols and cardiovascular health warrants further exploration.
Cocoa flavanols, found in abundance in dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao, are believed to possess heart-friendly properties. Such chocolate may lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose if consumed regularly for a month or more. However, the beans used in chocolate products typically undergo processes like fermentation and roasting that can dramatically reduce their flavanol content—sometimes by more than tenfold. This raises questions about the true efficacy of commercially available chocolate candies in promoting heart health.
While the COSMOS study presents intriguing data, it acknowledges that anomalies, genetic variations, and lifestyle factors could significantly influence the effects of cocoa flavanols on heart health. Moreover, there is insufficient conclusive evidence to precisely determine how cocoa products impact cardiovascular wellbeing. Nonetheless, moderate consumption of chocolate as part of a balanced diet is generally deemed acceptable.
"Excessive consumption of any chocolate candy, particularly those high in added sugars and fats, like many commercially available chocolate candies, can contribute to high cholesterol levels and other health issues," – Michelle Routhenstein, RD
In addition to potential health benefits, historical beliefs surrounding chocolate's medicinal properties are worth noting. The indigenous Aztec people consumed cocoa as a drink, believing it could treat various ailments, including angina—a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Today, modern science continues to investigate these ancient claims.
"As a result, [processed chocolate candy] does not typically offer the same heart-healthy benefits as cocoa in its unprocessed form," – Michelle Routhenstein, RD
Dark chocolate may indeed reduce the risk of high blood pressure and venous thromboembolism in individuals of European ancestry. Yet, it is crucial to understand that chocolate is not a panacea for cardiovascular health issues. Its potential benefits should be considered alongside other proven methods for achieving cardiovascular wellness.
"Enjoy your chocolates because they taste good—not to protect your heart," – Majid Basit, MD
"Cardiovascular health is achieved with healthy foods, vigorous exercise, and proper sleep," – Majid Basit, MD
Ultimately, while some research indicates that dark chocolate might offer certain cardiovascular benefits, it is not a substitute for a comprehensive approach to heart health. Consuming chocolate in moderation can be part of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods.
"There’s nothing wrong with having a chocolate treat—as long as it’s in moderation and consumed alongside a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other healthy items," – Majid Basit, MD
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