Khaberni - A large American study has shown that cocoa extract may play a role in slowing down some signs of aging by reducing chronic inflammation, which is a key factor in the development of heart, joint, and brain diseases as we age.
Researchers from Massachusetts General Brigham Hospital in Boston conducted a trial involving about 600 people with an average age of 70, half of whom took daily capsules containing 500 mg of cocoa extract, while the other half received a placebo, to compare the results.
According to the study results published in the British journal Age and Ageing, over two years of follow-up, scientists noted that those who took the extract registered an 8.4% slower increase in high-sensitivity inflammation protein (hsCRP), a major blood indicator that measures the level of inflammation in the body.
"Inflammaging" is a condition linked to chronic low-level inflammation as a natural response to defend the body, which can turn into a phenomenon known as inflammaging with age. This condition is associated with increased risks of heart disease, strokes, muscle weakness, and weakened immunity.
In this context, Dr. Howard Sisu, one of the lead researchers at Brigham Hospital, said the results "demonstrate that cocoa extract may help reduce chronic inflammation markers, thereby slowing some aging pathways," according to a report published by the American network "Fox News".
Cocoa and healthy hearts These results are part of a larger study known as COSMOS, which involved more than 21,000 participants to examine the effects of cocoa supplements and vitamins on health.
Earlier results from the project pointed to a 27% decrease in deaths from heart disease among those who consumed compounds called "flavanols" found in cocoa, supporting the hypothesis that the benefits are linked to reducing inflammation.
Cocoa or Chocolate? Researchers emphasized that the benefits do not signify consuming chocolate bars rich in sugar and fats, as the extract used in the study is concentrated and free from harmful ingredients. In commercial chocolate, manufacturing processes often remove a significant part of the antioxidants.
Promising but preliminary results The scientists also stressed that although the results are encouraging, the study has not yet proven that consuming cocoa extract directly leads to a longer life or reduces heart incidents and clots.
Dr. Mark Kovacs, an aging expert who was not involved in the research, described the results as "promising but preliminary," adding: "What we need is evidence of tangible health outcomes, such as a decrease in heart attacks and strokes."
Researchers also noted that the study sample was limited to healthy elderly white people, necessitating the replication of research on more diverse groups.
A holistic lifestyle approach Doctors stressed that cocoa extract is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle, but can be a supportive supplement. The essential pillars remain a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management.
But this research represents a new step in understanding the role of plant compounds like "flavanol" in combating inflammation and slowing aging. While the results still require broader and longer-term studies, they open the door for adopting cocoa extract as a practical option to support healthy aging and reduce the risks of modern diseases.
