Many people often choose dark chocolate to improve their mood after a stressful day at work. This type of chocolate is considered healthier than regular chocolate and a new study from King's College London (UK) shows that it can help slow down some signs of aging.
Research shows that a natural compound in cocoa has the ability to improve cell health and blood vessel function as the body ages.
Although dark chocolate is not an anti-aging food, the discovery provides evidence of the role of plant compounds in supporting healthy aging.
An important compound in dark chocolate is noticed
Research from Kings College London (UK) focuses on epicatechin, a natural flavanol found in cocoa, and this study shows that this compound can help slow down the aging process.
Researchers analyzed the effects of epicatechin on the endotests of blood vessels, the thin layer of cells lining the blood vessels. As we age, the function of the endothelial layer decreases, leading to ineffective circulation and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Research results show that epicatechin has the ability to:
Increased ability of blood vessels to dilate
Support the maintenance of nitric oxide levels, an important factor in blood circulation, which decline with age
Improve endothelial function, help blood vessels work more effectively
The study used pure epicatechin doses, not whole chocolate. However, the results still prove that the natural compounds in cocoa have important bioactivity.
So should you eat a lot of dark chocolate to fight aging?
Although dark chocolate contains flavanols, including epicatechin, consuming too much does not bring comprehensive health benefits. Dark chocolate also contains a significant amount of sugar, calories and saturated fat, which can have the opposite effect if used too much.
Experts emphasize that the main benefit of flavanol comes from being in plants. Foods rich in flavanols, less sugar and more healthy include: Berries, apples, tea, grapes.
A balanced diet rich in natural plant foods will bring longer-term benefits than relying solely on dark chocolate.
Flavanol in cocoa supports the aging process
Aging is a complex process that involves many changes in cell level and the blood vessel system. When blood circulation is effectively reduced, many organs in the body, including the brain and skin, are affected. flavanols such as epicatechin may benefit from the ability to:
Reduces inflammation
Improve blood flow
Reduces oxidative stress in cells
Supports cardiovascular health and metabolism
Although flavanols cannot prevent or reverse the aging process, these compounds can help the body maintain cell function, improve blood vessel health and reduce oxidative stress, thereby helping the body age healthier.
