Cocoa Extract Supplement Lowers Inflammation Markers and Supports Healthy Aging, Study Shows
New research indicates that cocoa extract supplements can lower inflammation markers associated with aging and cardiovascular risk, supporting the benefits of plant-based diets for healthy aging.
Recent research suggests that cocoa extract supplements, rich in beneficial cocoa flavanols, may play a role in reducing inflammation and potentially slowing aspects of the aging process. A study from the COSMOS trial, conducted by researchers at Mass General Brigham, examined the impact of daily cocoa supplementation on inflammatory markers associated with aging.
The study focused on five markers of inflammaging, including hsCRP, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, and IFN-γ, by analyzing blood samples from nearly 600 older adults over a period of two years. Notably, participants who took cocoa extract experienced an 8.4% annual reduction in hsCRP levels—a key indicator linked to increased risk of cardiovascular diseases—compared to those on a placebo. Other markers showed minimal change or slight increases.
The findings support the idea that cocoa flavanols possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to cardiovascular health benefits observed in larger studies. Previous research within the COSMOS trial indicated that cocoa extract supplementation was associated with a 27% decrease in cardiovascular disease mortality.
Howard Sesso, an expert in preventive medicine, highlighted the importance of the findings: "Our results suggest that multi-year cocoa extract supplementation could modulate inflammaging, which is crucial given its role in age-related diseases. This aligns with broader evidence emphasizing the advantages of plant-based foods containing bioactive compounds like flavanols, found in cocoa, berries, grapes, and tea."
Overall, these studies reinforce the importance of a diverse, colorful, plant-rich diet for promoting healthy aging and combating inflammation-related health issues. Researchers plan to continue exploring how cocoa and other dietary interventions might further reduce inflammaging and improve long-term health outcomes.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-cocoa-supplement-key-marker-inflammation.html
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