6 Cacao Components That Benefit The Heart

Not only are millions suffering emotionally, which is spiritually connected to the heart, but our population’s heart health is struggling physically.

Heart disease remains the top cause of death in the U.S.. Heart disease and stroke are expected to affect upwards of 60% of U.S. adults by 2050.

These statistics are increasingly beginning to affect our children mostly due to an increase in obesity.

Not only does cacao act as a meal replacement with all of its nourishing nutrients, but the components of cacao directly benefit our health health.

Cacao contains several key components that benefit heart health. Here are the main ones:

1) Flavonoids (Epicatechin, Catechin, Procyanidins):

• Function: These are powerful antioxidants that help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Flavonoids enhance nitric oxide production in the blood, which dilates blood vessels and improves circulation.

• Benefits: Reduced blood pressure, improved endothelial function (lining of blood vessels), and decreased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

2) Theobromine:

• Function: A mild stimulant found in cacao that can dilate blood vessels and improve circulation without raising heart rate significantly like caffeine does.

• Benefits: Helps lower blood pressure and reduces inflammation in the cardiovascular system.

3) Magnesium:

• Function: Magnesium is essential for maintaining a healthy heartbeat, relaxing blood vessels, and supporting muscle function, including the heart.

• Benefits: Adequate magnesium levels lower the risk of heart disease and help prevent conditions like high blood pressure and arrhythmias.

4) Potassium:

• Function: Potassium helps regulate heart function and fluid balance in the body.

• Benefits: Helps manage blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium, thereby reducing strain on the heart​.

5) Polyphenols:

• Function: Polyphenols help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, two key contributors to heart disease.

• Benefits: Protect against atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries), lowering the risk of heart attacks​.

6) Monounsaturated Fats:

• Function: The natural cacao butter in cacao paste contains heart-healthy fats that support cardiovascular health.

• Benefits: These fats help manage cholesterol levels by lowering LDL ("bad" cholesterol) and boosting HDL ("good" cholesterol), reducing the risk of heart disease.

These components work together to promote heart health by improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and protecting the heart from oxidative stress.

We hope you have a Happy and Healthy Week!

The Happy To Be Here Team