The Impact of Cocoa Supplements on Age-Related Inflammation

Age-related inflammation, often referred to as “inflammaging,” is a significant health issue affecting cardiovascular health. In this context, a large clinical study has shown that cocoa supplements rich in flavanols can reduce this inflammation, thereby enhancing heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The COSMOS Study and Cocoa Benefits

The “Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study,” known as COSMOS, analyzed the effect of cocoa supplements on five biomarkers of age-related inflammation. More than 21,442 participants were involved, making it one of the largest studies in this field.

The results showed a significant decrease in levels of the hsCRP biomarker, which is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. This decrease reflects cocoa’s potential to alleviate inflammation and improve heart health.

The Importance of Flavanols in Cocoa Supplements

Flavanols are biologically active compounds found in cocoa beans and many other plant-based foods like berries and tea. These compounds play a crucial role in reducing inflammation, thereby contributing to improved cardiovascular health.

Flavanols help enhance vascular function and reduce inflammation levels, explaining the heart-protective effects of cocoa supplements.

Study Results and Their Impact on Public Health

The study demonstrated that consuming cocoa supplements could reduce mortality rates from heart diseases by up to 27%. Researchers also observed a slight increase in levels of interferon-γ, a protein linked to the immune system, paving the way for further research on cocoa’s effects on immunity.

These findings underscore the importance of a diet rich in diverse plant-based foods, which can play a vital role in preventing age-related diseases.

Conclusion

Recent studies indicate that flavanol-rich cocoa supplements may be an effective tool in reducing age-related inflammation and improving heart health. However, these supplements are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and should be part of a balanced diet. The results call for further research to understand how these supplements affect overall health and disease prevention.