Beverage to Shield Heart from Stress-induced, High-fat Consumption
In response to the commonly observed behavior known as stress eating, a recent study offers a potential solution to mitigate its detrimental effects. Researchers from the University of Birmingham investigated the impact of flavanol-rich foods on the vascular system during periods of stress.
Specifically, they aimed to discover whether adding a high-flavanol food to a high-fat meal would protect the vascular system during stressful conditions. Dr. Catarina Rendeiro, lead author and Assistant Professor in Nutritional Sciences at the University of Birmingham, explains, "In this study, we wanted to see if adding a high-flavanol food to the fatty meal would alleviate the negative impact of stress on the body."
The study employed a group of healthy young adults who were given a high-fat breakfast and then offered either a high-flavanol cocoa drink or a low-flavanol cocoa drink. After completed a mental math test, which intensified in speed for eight minutes, the group's vascular activity was measured, focusing on forearm blood flow and cardiovascular activity, as well as oxygenation of the prefrontal cortex.
Notably, brachial flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was used as a measurement of vascular activity. FMD is recognized as a good predictor of future heart disease risk. The results demonstrated that those who consumed the low-flavanol drink experienced a decline of 1.29% FMD, while those who consumed the high-flavanol cocoa showed no decrease in vascular function.
Dr. Rendeiro interprets these findings, stating, "This research shows that drinking or eating a food high in flavanols can be used as a strategy to mitigate some of the impact of poorer food choices on the vascular system. This can help us make more informed decisions about what we eat and drink during stressful periods."
The impact of flavanols, particularly those found in cocoa, on vascular function can be attributed to their properties that stimulate nitric oxide production, improve endothelial function, provide antioxidant benefits, and promote sustained vascular protection [1-5]. These mechanisms help maintain healthy blood vessels and reduce the risk factors associated with stress-related dietary patterns.
When seeking sources of flavanols, focus on minimally processed cocoa powder or consuming two cups of black or green tea daily to obtain the recommended intake of 400-600 mg/day. Additionally, foods such as onions, kale, peaches, berries, tomatoes, and broccoli offer high levels of flavanols. Moderate consumption of red wine and chocolate can also provide flavanol benefits.
- The study's results suggest that consuming a high-flavanol food, such as high-flavanol cocoa, can help maintain healthy vascular function during periods of stress, as demonstrated by the lack of decline in vascular function in the group that consumed the high-flavanol drink.
- This health-and-wellness research indicates that nutrients like flavanols, found in various sources including cocoa, can contribute to better mental health by protecting the vascular system from the negative effects of stress, making informed dietary choices even under stressful conditions.
- By integrating foods high in flavanols, like high-flavanol cocoa, black or green tea, onions, kale, peaches, berries, tomatoes, and broccoli, into one's fitness-and-exercise routine, individuals can potentially reduce the impact of stress-related dietary patterns on their long-term health and wellness.
