Cocoa Extract Supplementation and Its Limited Impact on Hypertension Risk

Recent research published in the journal Hypertension indicates that long-term cocoa extract supplementation does not significantly reduce the overall risk of developing hypertension. However, the study found potential benefits for individuals with normal systolic blood pressure at baseline.

The study involved a large-scale, randomized clinical trial examining the effects of cocoa flavonols on incident hypertension. Over 21,000 women aged 65 and older and men aged 60 and older participated, with some receiving cocoa extract and others a placebo, both alongside multivitamins without bioactive compounds. Of these, 8,905 participants who were free from hypertension at the start were closely monitored.

Results showed that, during a median follow-up period of 3.4 years, cocoa extract did not significantly impact the overall incidence of hypertension. The incidence rates were similar between the cocoa and placebo groups, with hazard ratios close to unity (HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.88 to 1.05). Interestingly, subgroup analyses revealed that among participants with baseline systolic blood pressure below 120 mm Hg, cocoa intake appeared to reduce the risk of developing hypertension. Conversely, no benefit was seen in individuals with systolic blood pressure between 120 and 139 mm Hg.

Researchers suggest that cocoa flavanols might be more effective in maintaining vascular health and preventing the early elevation of blood pressure rather than lowering already elevated levels. This evidence points to a nuanced role of cocoa flavonoids in cardiovascular health, emphasizing their potential in early prevention strategies.

Two study authors disclosed ties to companies such as Mars Edge and Pfizer. Overall, the findings highlight that while cocoa extract may not be a remedy for hypertension, its benefits could be targeted more effectively in individuals with normal blood pressure levels.

For more information, see the original study: Long-Term Effect of Cocoa Extract Supplementation on Incident Hypertension.