A cup of cocoa can protect your blood vessels from some of the effects of fatty meals
Drinking a cup of cocoa may help protect your blood vessels from some of the harmful effects of fatty meals, according to recent research.
Cocoa, particularly dark chocolate and unsweetened cocoa, contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that have been shown to improve heart health.
These compounds can help relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the likelihood of blood vessel damage caused by high-fat foods.
In studies, participants who drank cocoa before consuming a fatty meal showed better blood vessel function compared to those who didn't consume cocoa.
The flavonoids in cocoa may help counteract the negative impact of saturated fats on the blood vessels, offering a protective effect against cardiovascular issues.
This doesn’t mean cocoa is a cure-all for unhealthy eating habits, but it does suggest that adding a cup of cocoa to your diet may help reduce the short-term damage caused by fatty meals
To get the most benefits, opt for cocoa with higher levels of flavonoids, such as dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder.