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Chocolate Health: Chocolate Reduces Markers for Arterial Hardening and Heart Attack

• Daily supplements of flavonoid-rich chocolate reduce biochemical markers of arterial hardening and heart disease. 

Daily consumption of 40 gms of antioxidant-rich chocolate powder led to reductions in inflammatory chemicals which contribute to atherosclerosis.

Researchers recruited 42 people with an average age of 70 to either consume cocoa powder or placebo for four weeks. After four weeks they were switched over to the other intervention group for another four weeks.

All participants were at a high risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) since they were diabetic, obese, smoked, had high blood pressure, raised LDL or low HDL cholesterol, and had a family history of early CHD.

Researchers state, “Our results suggest that regular consumption of nutritional doses of cocoa may have an effect on all initial phases of the atherosclerotic process in subjects at high risk of CHD. These anti-inflammatory effects may contribute to the overall benefits of cocoa consumption against atherosclerosis.”

Reference Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Published online ahead of print, doi:10.3945/ajcn.2009.27716. “Effect of cocoa powder on the modulation of inflammatory biomarkers in patients at high risk of cardiovascular disease” Authors: M. Monagas, N. Khan, C. Andres-Lacueva, R. Casas, M. Urpi-Sarda, R. Llorach, R.M. Lamuela-Raventos, R. Estruch.

N atural Care Pearl
It may not take 40 gms of cocoa to see beneficial results. Earlier research has shown one bite of a 65% - 70% cocoa, dark chocolate bar, provides similar blood vessel health benefits.

We now carry Organic Organic Chocolate Bars and Organic Chocolate Covered Foods by Pacari. Our chocolate bars are imported from Ecuador. Pacari works exclusively with small, independent growers who follow organic and equitable trade practices.

Come by the office for a free sample! This is not candy.

We also provide the DynaPulse Wave Test that evaluates the hardness of blood vessels and their repsonse to diet, lifestyle and targeted supplements. Call our office at 405.936.3333 to schedule your DynaPulse Wave Test.

Source: http://www.NaturalCareSolution.com

Return from Chocolate Health to 2009 Natural Care News

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