A bioactive compound that makes cocoa contain flavonoids could help middle-aged adults exercise better. This emerges from a new study that shows a possible impact of cocoa powder anddark chocolateexamined for blood flow. The research analyzed the potential health benefits of flavonols (plant nutrients) contained in cocoa beans.
How people get flavonoids for the body by eating cocoa
Because cocoa contains flavonoids that have a vasodilating effect, consuming it helps increase blood flow. This has already been shown to prevent blood clots and even combat memory loss. Now a research team from Liverpool has tested the effects of cocoa on exercise on a group of sedentary adults aged between 40 and 60. The results show that flavonols contribute to faster oxygen uptake kinetics. Improved blood circulation is a likely cause. Without frequent exercise, aging leads to a slowing of the increase in oxygen consumption at the start of exercise. This is due to an impairment in the ability to supply blood to the exercising muscles at the start of exercise. The new findings show that simple nutritional supplementation can improve exercise tolerance and therefore increase the likelihood of maintaining an exercise program.
However, according to the study authors, excessive consumption of chocolate, dark or otherwise, should not be encouraged. The substance is most often available as a dietary supplement, which amateur athletes like to use to improve performance. However, flavonoids are not only found in cocoa. They are also found in abundance in green tea, fruits and vegetables and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is preferable to take supplements rather than eat dark chocolate because of its potential beneficial effects during exercise. Ultimately, the results of the present research may have clinical potential to contribute to improved tolerance of everyday activity in middle-aged adults.This studycould also help combat stress-related ischemia through nutrition.
