Study Reveals How Tea and Chocolate Could Support Heart Health

New Delhi: A new study from the University of Surrey offers promising news for tea and dark chocolate lovers, revealing that naturally occurring compounds called flavan-3-ols—found in foods like cocoa, tea, apples, and grapes — may significantly benefit cardiovascular health. Published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, the research analysed data from 145 randomised controlled trials and found that regular intake of flavan-3-ols is associated with reduced blood pressure, especially in individuals with elevated or high readings.

In some instances, the blood pressure-lowering effects observed were on par with those of certain medications, highlighting the potential of dietary choices in managing heart health. Beyond blood pressure, flavan-3-ols were also found to enhance endothelial function — the performance of the inner lining of blood vessels, which plays a vital role in maintaining circulatory health. Notably, this improvement occurred independently of blood pressure changes, suggesting broader cardiovascular benefits.

Professor Christian Heiss, lead author of the study and professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Surrey, commented, "The findings are encouraging for those looking for accessible ways to manage their blood pressure and support their heart health through enjoyable dietary changes. Incorporating small amounts of commonly consumed foods like tea, apples, dark chocolate, or cocoa powder into a daily balanced diet could provide beneficial amounts of flavan-3-ols."

He added, "While not a replacement for prescribed medications or medical advice, including more flavan-3-ol-rich foods in a daily routine could be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle, especially for those with higher blood pressure. These are findings that, although promising, require ongoing investigation."

Reference: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/news/new-study-finds-tea-and-chocolate-may-help-lower-blood-pressure