A recent study by the University of Surrey, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, suggests that incorporating flavan-3-ol-rich foods&mdash;such as dark chocolate, tea, apples, and grapes&mdash;into one's diet may help lower blood pressure and enhance cardiovascular health.
Flavan-3-ols, naturally occurring compounds found in various plant-based foods, have been associated with improved blood vessel function and reduced blood pressure levels. The study analyzed data from 145 randomized controlled trials and found that regular consumption of flavan-3-ols led to significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly in individuals with elevated or high blood pressure. In some cases, the effects were comparable to those achieved with certain antihypertensive medications.
Professor Christian Heiss, the lead author of the study, emphasized the potential benefits of these dietary changes: "Incorporating small amounts of commonly consumed foods like tea, apples, dark chocolate, or cocoa powder into a daily balanced diet could provide beneficial amounts of flavan-3-ols." He also noted that while these foods can support heart health, they should not replace prescribed medications or medical advice.
Beyond blood pressure reduction, flavan-3-ols were found to improve endothelial function&mdash;the inner lining of blood vessels&mdash;which plays a crucial role in overall cardiovascular health. This improvement occurred independently of blood pressure changes, indicating a broader positive impact on the circulatory system.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects approximately 1.28 billion adults worldwide and is a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet rich in flavan-3-ols, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation, are recommended strategies for managing blood pressure.
While further research is needed to establish definitive guidelines, the study's findings highlight the potential of flavan-3-ol-rich foods as a complementary approach to traditional hypertension treatments.

Incorporating flavan-3-ol-rich foods like tea, dark chocolate, apples, and grapes into your diet could support heart health and reduce high blood pressure, according to new research

Tea and Dark Chocolate May Help Lower Blood Pressure, Study Finds

Incorporating flavan-3-ol-rich foods like tea, dark chocolate, apples, and grapes into your diet could support heart health and reduce high blood pres ...

May 17, 2025 | 21:06 IST