Tea and chocolate for the heart: nature’s way to health

Small pleasures like a cup of tea or a piece of dark chocolate can be not only tasty, but also good for your heart. Researchers at the University of Surrey have found that natural compounds – flavan-3-ols, which are hidden in cocoa, tea, apples and grapes – can lower blood pressure and improve vascular health.

The focus is on blood pressure, which is a concern for millions of people. Regular consumption of foods with flavan-3-ols showed a noticeable effect: blood pressure fell, especially in those who already suffered from its increase. In some cases, the benefits were comparable to the effects of medication. This means that a couple of cups of tea or a little chocolate a day can be allies in the fight against hypertension.

Equally important, flavan-3-ols take care of the inner lining of blood vessels – the endothelium. This thin layer is responsible for the flexibility and health of the circulatory system. Its improvement occurred even without changes in blood pressure, which hints at a broader effect on the heart and arteries. Such changes are a step toward protecting against heart attacks and other woes.

The good news is that you don’t have to drastically change your menu to reap the benefits. It’s enough to add some tea, apples, grapes or cocoa to your diet. These products are available to everyone and easily fit into everyday life. Of course, they will not replace pills or doctor’s advice, but they can be a pleasant addition to healthy habits.

Why it matters. Heart disease is one of the top threats in the world, and hypertension often comes first. Simple changes in eating, like an extra cup of tea or a slice of chocolate, offer a chance to support yourself without the hassle. Scientists emphasize: the data still require new tests, but it is already clear that nature has given us a tasty way to take care of the heart.