Certain Flavonoids in Tea and Chocolate May Help Lower Blood Pressure
Discover how flavonoids in tea and chocolate may help lower blood pressure and support heart health through improved endothelial function and healthy diet choices.
Benefits of Flavan-3-ols for Blood Pressure
A recent meta-study suggests that flavan-3-ols, natural compounds found in cocoa, tea, apples, and grapes, may be beneficial for managing high blood pressure. These plant-based compounds improve endothelial function, which plays a vital role in blood vessel health and blood pressure regulation. The analysis of 145 controlled studies indicates that consuming flavan-3-ol-rich foods can help reduce blood pressure and enhance vascular health, especially in individuals with hypertension.
Flavan-3-ols in Diet
Sources include dark chocolate, green and black teas, apples, and grapes. However, processed products like milk chocolate and flavored teas contain lower levels of these beneficial compounds due to manufacturing methods.
Enhancing Heart Health
Apart from flavan-3-ols, other natural compounds such as resveratrol, curcumin, berberine, omega-3 fatty acids, garlic extract, and quercetin are being researched for their cardiovascular benefits. Nonetheless, natural doesn’t always mean safe; some supplements can interact with medications.
The Power of Diet
Healthcare professionals highlight that food choices significantly influence heart and vessel health. Diets high in processed foods, saturated fats, and sugars can worsen cardiovascular outcomes, whereas diets rich in whole foods, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains promote vascular health and reduce disease risk.
This research underscores the importance of dietary strategies in supporting heart health, potentially reducing the need for medication when combined with lifestyle changes.
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Global Study Highlights the High Cost of Accessing Healthy and Nutritious Diets
A groundbreaking global study reveals that over 80% of people worldwide cannot afford the basic healthy diets essential for health, emphasizing the urgent need for policy measures to improve food affordability and nutrition security.
Low Muscle Mass in Women May Worsen Breast Cancer Outcomes
Research shows that women with low muscle mass diagnosed with breast cancer are at higher risk of treatment toxicity and lower survival rates. Maintaining muscle reserves through nutrition and exercise may improve treatment outcomes.
The Impact of Food Structure on Gut Hormone Release and Metabolism
New findings reveal how the physical structure of food influences gut hormone release, affecting satiety and blood sugar regulation. This research opens new possibilities for designing healthier, metabolism-optimizing foods.
High-Quality Carbohydrates from Food Groups May Promote Healthy Aging
Discover how high-quality carbohydrates from whole grains, vegetables, and legumes can support healthy aging and reduce the risk of chronic diseases in older women.