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Good news for chocolate lovers: a common treat might be beneficial for your heart. Brazilian scientists have found that moderate consumption of dark chocolate could significantly improve cardiovascular health and even reduce the risk of fatty liver disease.

Unlocking Cardiovascular Benefits

Researchers from Marília University in Brazil have highlighted the potential of dark chocolate in improving heart health. They point out that the mechanisms behind cardiovascular diseases and metabolic dysfunction in the liver share common roots, including chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and disruptions in fat and carbohydrate metabolism.

The Power of Cacao Compounds

The key lies in the rich plant compounds found in cacao, particularly epicatechins and catechins. These powerful antioxidants can increase the bioavailability of nitric oxide, which is crucial for blood vessel function. They also enhance the performance of the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, and help reduce inflammatory signals.

Clinical Evidence and Findings

Several clinical studies have linked regular, moderate dark chocolate intake to positive health outcomes. These include an increase in "good" cholesterol (HDL) and a decrease in total cholesterol. Participants also experienced improvements in arterial blood pressure regulation, enhanced vascular function, and reduced levels of inflammatory markers and liver cell damage.

A Balanced Perspective

While the findings are promising, the scientists emphasize that most studies were short-term and specifically used dark chocolate with high cocoa and flavonoid content, not sugary confectionery. Definitive proof that dark chocolate directly reduces heart attack risk or prevents liver disease flare-ups is still needed. However, the researchers suggest that dark chocolate can be considered a beneficial addition to a balanced diet.

This information was reported by the Infohub.kz news agency.