Study finds chocolate and tea may improve heart health and lower blood pressure

A recent scientific study has found that combining chocolate and tea in one’s diet may have a positive impact on cardiovascular health, particularly in reducing blood pressure levels. The findings, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.

According to a report published by Verywell Health, the role of natural compounds called flavan-3-ols plays a very effective role on health.

Flavan-3-ols are plant-based compounds present in a variety of foods, most notably dark chocolate and tea, but also found in grapes, apples, pears, and berries. Researchers found that regular consumption of these compounds can lead to significant health benefits for individuals with elevated blood pressure.

“In people with high blood pressure, the reduction caused by flavan-3-ols was similar to what we see with blood pressure medications,” said Professor Christian Heiss, a cardiovascular medicine specialist at the University of Surrey and a co-author of the study. Heiss emphasized, however, that in individuals with normal or low blood pressure, the impact was minimal.

According to the research, the average intake of flavan-3-ols among participants ranged from 500 to 600 milligrams per day. This can be obtained through a daily intake of two to three cups of tea, one or two servings of dark chocolate, two to three tablespoons of cocoa powder, or two to three apples. A mix of smaller portions of these foods along with fruits like grapes and pears can also provide the required amount.

Kevin Park, a registered dietitian at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, highlighted the long-term nature of these dietary benefits. “To see improvements in blood pressure, these foods need to be consumed consistently for about four to eight weeks,” he explained. Park also stressed that integrating flavan-3-ol–rich foods into a well-balanced diet could offer meaningful cardiovascular protection.

The study analyzed data from 5,205 participants, including individuals diagnosed with heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, as well as healthy individuals. Across the board, the data supported the conclusion that flavan-3-ols contribute to lowering blood pressure, reinforcing the value of certain dietary choices in maintaining heart health.