Cocoa may do more than satisfy a sweet tooth. A new study suggests cocoa extract supplements could help lower inflammation, a key factor in chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Older adults who took 500 mg of cocoa extract daily for two years saw steady improvements in certain markers of inflammation, especially high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), which is linked to heart risk.
The study tracked five different markers. Results showed an annual 8% drop in hsCRP levels among cocoa extract users, along with a 7% increase in interferon-γ, a protein important for immune health. Benefits were strongest in people who already had higher inflammation levels, suggesting cocoa extract may work best as a preventive tool for those at risk.
Cocoa extract is rich in flavanols that support heart health, but doctors caution it is not a substitute for proven lifestyle habits like healthy eating, exercise, and medical care. Experts recommend talking with a physician before using cocoa extract long term, especially for people sensitive to caffeine or on certain medications.
SOURCE: