A common kitchen ingredient has been called "one of the world's best medicines" for heart health, but experts warn that the key remains moderation.
It's about dark chocolate, which has been publicly praised by medical herbalist Simon Mills during an interview on The Diary of a CEO podcast with Steven Bartlett.
Mills said that dark chocolate with at least 75% cocoa, consumed in amounts of 50–100 grams per day, may have benefits for cardiovascular and brain health. He referred to studies that show short-term improvements in blood vessel function after consuming it.
According to the British Heart Foundation, cocoa is rich in flavanols – plant compounds that help relax blood vessels and improve circulation. The Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health also notes that the flavanols in dark chocolate are linked to improved endothelial function, a key factor in regulating blood pressure.
@steven Could chocolate actually be good for you? Medical herbalist Simon Mills explains why high-quality dark chocolate can be more than just a treat. Packed with beneficial compounds, it supports brain health, boosts cardiovascular function, and even helps improve blood flow. Do you think chocolate can be part of a healthy diet? #podcast #chocolate #health ♬ original sound – The Diary Of A CEO
Studies published in the journal Circulation by the American Heart Association suggest that higher chocolate consumption is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, although a direct cause-and-effect relationship is not proven. Another scientific review in the journal Heart by the BMJ found that moderate chocolate consumption is associated with a lower risk of cardiometabolic disorders, particularly stroke.
On the other hand, the European Food Safety Authority states that a daily intake of about 200 mg of cocoa flavanols helps maintain normal blood vessel elasticity, contributing to healthy blood circulation.
Dark chocolate also contains stimulants like theobromine and small amounts of caffeine, which can positively affect mood, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
However, the NHS stresses that chocolate should only be consumed as part of a balanced diet, due to its high calorie content and saturated fat. Mills himself explained that this is not about ordinary chocolate or cocoa drinks from industrial packages, but about chocolate as dark as possible, with a less sweet and more "medicinal" taste.
Globally, the World Health Organization reports that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the world, with an estimated 20.5 million deaths each year. For this reason, the British Dietetic Association emphasizes that protecting heart health should be based primarily on a balanced diet, rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats, as well as regular physical activity.
In conclusion, dark chocolate can be a small ally for the heart, but only when consumed carefully and as part of a healthy lifestyle. /GazetaExpress/
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