Those with hypertension who like to curl up on a winter evening with a hot mug of cocoa may be doing their blood pressure a huge favor, according to a research review published in the “Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition.” In the study, researchers weighed in on the growing research linking cocoa consumption and reduced blood pressure and “bad” LDL cholesterol levels.

They note that cocoa is unusually high in a special class of antioxidants known as flavanols. The paper author’s note that the flavanols found in cocoa are effective for reducing blood pressure by 5 percent or more. Cocoa flavanols also improve the health of arteries –reducing the risk of dangerous plaque formation.

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All the Best,

Christian Goodman