Cocoa Extract Shows Promise in Reducing Chronic Inflammation, Perhaps Lowering Cardiovascular Risk
Boston, MA – A new study from Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center reveals that daily cocoa extract supplementation may substantially reduce levels of chronic inflammation, a key driver of age-related diseases including cardiovascular disease. Researchers were surprised by the magnitude of the effect observed in participants.
The findings, published recently, suggest cocoa extract could offer a novel approach too modulating inflammation, though researchers emphasize it is indeed not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle. Chronic inflammation affects millions worldwide and is implicated in a wide range of conditions, from arthritis to cancer. This research offers a potential dietary intervention to help manage this pervasive health challenge, with ongoing studies exploring broader impacts on age-related illnesses.
The study, involving over 300 adults, demonstrated a notable decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), a key inflammatory marker, among those consuming cocoa extract daily. “even though cocoa extract is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle, these results are encouraging and highlight its potential role in modulating inflammation in aging,” stated Dr. Howard Sesso, lead researcher on the project.
Researchers noted the hsCRP reduction may explain previous observations linking cocoa extract intake to lower mortality rates from cardiovascular disease. However, they caution that further investigation is needed to fully understand the effects on other inflammatory markers, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), which showed a slight decrease in women but not in men during the study.
The research team is continuing to analyze data to determine if cocoa and multivitamin supplements can positively impact other age-related inflammatory conditions and diseases. “This study calls for more attention to the cardiovascular health benefits of plant-based foods, including flavanol-rich cocoa products,” added Sesso.
