Flavonoid Rich Dark Chocolate Good for High Blood Pressure
Published April 13th, 2007
Foods like dark chocolate, which contain plenty of cocoa, may potentially reduce high blood pressure by acting in a manner similar to many blood pressure-lowering drugs, according to an analysis of previous studies by German researchers.
Researchers from the University Hospital of Cologne examined data of five cocoa studies and five tea studies and concluded that dark chocolate and other cocoa-rich foods acted to reduce high blood pressure better than tea.
Dark chocolate contains a high amount of cocoa and is also rich in elements called flavonoids. These compounds are known to reduce cholesterol levels in blood vessels. Flavonoids are also found in tea, red wine and some fruits and vegetables.
Flavonoids also slow the grouping of “bad” LDL cholesterol besides rendering blood platelets less likely to clump and cause clots.
Current guidelines for people with high blood pressure advise a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
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