Dark chocolate lowers blood pressure

For people with hypertension, eating dark chocolate can significantly reduce blood pressure. Researchers writing in the open access journal BMC Medicine combined the results of 15 studies into the effects of flavanols, the compounds in chocolate which cause dilation of blood vessels, on blood pressure. Dr Karin Ried, who worked with a team of researchers from the University of Adelaide, Australia, to conduct the analysis, said, "Flavanols have been shown to increase the formation of endothelial nitric oxide, which promotes vasodilatation and consequently may lower blood pressure. There have, however, been conflicting results as to the real-life effects of eating chocolate. We've found that consumption can significantly, albeit modestly, reduce blood pressure for people with high blood pressure but not for people with normal blood pressure." Still, they remain cautious. "The practicability of chocolate or cocoa drinks as long-term treatment is questionable," said Dr Ried.Tienda outlet deportiva