Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 16 Researches
7.6
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 23 Reviews
8.1
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 tbsp (6 g)
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories
25
Total Fat
0.5 g
1%
Saturated Fat
0 g
2%
Trans Fat
0 g
Cholesterol
0 mg
0%
Sodium
0 mg
0%
Total Carbohydrate
3 g
1%
Dietary Fiber
2 g
7%
Total Sugars
0 g
Includes 0 g Added Sugars
0%
Protein
2 g
Vitamin D
0 mcg
0%
Calcium
14 mg
2%
Iron
1 mg
4%
Potassium
116 mg
2%
Top Medical Research Studies
7
We explored whether consuming chocolate could lower the risk of heart failure among 20,278 male physicians in a long-term study. Over 9 years, we regularly checked their chocolate intake and heart health, finding 876 new heart failure cases.
Although the overall results showed no significant benefit for chocolate consumption across all participants, a noticeable trend emerged: men with lower body weight (BMI under 25) who enjoyed chocolate five or more times a week had a reduced risk. This suggests that for some, moderate chocolate consumption may hold heart health benefits.
Although the overall results showed no significant benefit for chocolate consumption across all participants, a noticeable trend emerged: men with lower body weight (BMI under 25) who enjoyed chocolate five or more times a week had a reduced risk. This suggests that for some, moderate chocolate consumption may hold heart health benefits.
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4
Cocoa extract's limited heart benefits
We examined the impact of cocoa extract supplementation on heart disease in a large group of older adults through a rigorous randomized, double-blind trial. While the overall results showed that cocoa extract didn't significantly lower total cardiovascular events, there was a notable reduction of 27% in cardiovascular-related deaths.
This suggests that while cocoa may not prevent heart attacks or strokes, it might still play a role in improving heart health outcomes. More studies are needed to fully understand cocoa's potential benefits.
This suggests that while cocoa may not prevent heart attacks or strokes, it might still play a role in improving heart health outcomes. More studies are needed to fully understand cocoa's potential benefits.
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9
We investigated how cacao bean polyphenols might affect heart health, particularly focusing on cardiac hypertrophy linked to heart failure. Using a mix of neonatal rat cells and mice models, we found that cacao polyphenols significantly reduced changes in heart cells that typically lead to hypertrophy.
This treatment appeared to improve cardiac function and structure by blocking specific signaling pathways related to heart stress. Although results are promising, more research is necessary to see if these benefits translate to humans.
This treatment appeared to improve cardiac function and structure by blocking specific signaling pathways related to heart stress. Although results are promising, more research is necessary to see if these benefits translate to humans.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Aids heart function
67 people found this helpful
This raw, organic cocoa is superb! I find it essential, especially as I deal with iron deficiency and stress. The magnesium it provides calms me, and it’s packed with antioxidants, so I’m supporting my heart health. After enjoying a cup, I feel uplifted due to the beneficial compounds it contains. I love its flavour and the fact that it’s not roasted, so all nutrients remain intact. I thoroughly recommend this brand for those wanting a health boost and a delicious drink.
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9
Mood stabilisation
1 people found this helpful
Regular daily intake of organic cocoa helps normalise sleep. It’s an antioxidant that supports the cardiovascular system, enhances circulation, reduces blood viscosity and regulates blood pressure, thus benefiting heart health.
Read More
8
Promotes heart health
366 people found this helpful
I adore this raw cocoa, which is not only delicious but beneficial for heart health. The ancient Maya and Aztecs valued cocoa highly, and with its antioxidant properties, it genuinely uplifts my mood and promotes well-being. The fact that it’s certified organic makes it even better, devoid of nasty pesticides. I enjoy it in drinks and find that it contributes positively to skin health, helping to heal and rejuvenate. It’s versatile and a must-try for anyone seeking health benefits and a lovely drink.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 16 Researches
7.6
- All Researches
9
We investigated how cacao bean polyphenols might affect heart health, particularly focusing on cardiac hypertrophy linked to heart failure. Using a mix of neonatal rat cells and mice models, we found that cacao polyphenols significantly reduced changes in heart cells that typically lead to hypertrophy.
This treatment appeared to improve cardiac function and structure by blocking specific signaling pathways related to heart stress. Although results are promising, more research is necessary to see if these benefits translate to humans.
This treatment appeared to improve cardiac function and structure by blocking specific signaling pathways related to heart stress. Although results are promising, more research is necessary to see if these benefits translate to humans.
Read More
9
We investigated the effects of flavonol (−)-epicatechin, a compound found in cacao, on heart health. Using both live mice and cultured heart cells, we discovered that EPI significantly reduced damage caused by reduced blood flow to the heart, or myocardial ischemia.
The treatment showed a decrease in heart cell death and improved function by activating a specific signaling pathway. Our findings suggest EPI from cacao could offer new protective strategies for heart conditions, making it an appealing focus for future cardiac health research.
The treatment showed a decrease in heart cell death and improved function by activating a specific signaling pathway. Our findings suggest EPI from cacao could offer new protective strategies for heart conditions, making it an appealing focus for future cardiac health research.
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9
We investigated whether cacao polyphenols could help reduce autoimmune myocarditis, a severe heart condition. In our study, mice with this condition received either a cacao polyphenol extract or a placebo.
Our results showed that the cacao-treated mice had notably lower heart damage compared to those given the placebo. This included less inflammation and reduced levels of harmful substances in the heart.
While cacao may not entirely reverse heart issues, it shows promise as a dietary supplement to help manage cardiovascular inflammation and oxidative stress.
Our results showed that the cacao-treated mice had notably lower heart damage compared to those given the placebo. This included less inflammation and reduced levels of harmful substances in the heart.
While cacao may not entirely reverse heart issues, it shows promise as a dietary supplement to help manage cardiovascular inflammation and oxidative stress.
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8
We evaluated the effects of consuming 30 grams of dark chocolate daily for one week on patients with stable coronary artery disease. This study involved 20 participants already on dual antiplatelet therapy.
Our findings revealed that cacao enhanced the action of clopidogrel, significantly decreasing platelet reactivity, but did not affect aspirin's effectiveness. While these results are promising, further long-term studies are needed to confirm these effects in heart disease management.
Our findings revealed that cacao enhanced the action of clopidogrel, significantly decreasing platelet reactivity, but did not affect aspirin's effectiveness. While these results are promising, further long-term studies are needed to confirm these effects in heart disease management.
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8
We examined the impact of (-)-epicatechin, a key flavonoid in cacao, on heart health in aging female rats with pre-heart failure. In our treatment, the rats received daily doses of Epi over a period of time.
We found that Epi significantly reduced heart fibrosis and levels of harmful markers related to oxidative stress and inflammation. However, it did not appear to improve the heart's pumping function.
Overall, while Epi shows promise for reducing certain heart risks, it didn't enhance overall cardiac performance in this specific study.
We found that Epi significantly reduced heart fibrosis and levels of harmful markers related to oxidative stress and inflammation. However, it did not appear to improve the heart's pumping function.
Overall, while Epi shows promise for reducing certain heart risks, it didn't enhance overall cardiac performance in this specific study.
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User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 23 Reviews
8.1
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Aids heart function
67 people found this helpful
This raw, organic cocoa is superb! I find it essential, especially as I deal with iron deficiency and stress. The magnesium it provides calms me, and it’s packed with antioxidants, so I’m supporting my heart health. After enjoying a cup, I feel uplifted due to the beneficial compounds it contains. I love its flavour and the fact that it’s not roasted, so all nutrients remain intact. I thoroughly recommend this brand for those wanting a health boost and a delicious drink.
Read More
9
Mood stabilisation
1 people found this helpful
Regular daily intake of organic cocoa helps normalise sleep. It’s an antioxidant that supports the cardiovascular system, enhances circulation, reduces blood viscosity and regulates blood pressure, thus benefiting heart health.
Read More
8
Promotes heart health
366 people found this helpful
I adore this raw cocoa, which is not only delicious but beneficial for heart health. The ancient Maya and Aztecs valued cocoa highly, and with its antioxidant properties, it genuinely uplifts my mood and promotes well-being. The fact that it’s certified organic makes it even better, devoid of nasty pesticides. I enjoy it in drinks and find that it contributes positively to skin health, helping to heal and rejuvenate. It’s versatile and a must-try for anyone seeking health benefits and a lovely drink.
Read More
9
Rich in nutrients
16 people found this helpful
This raw cocoa is simply divine! I gravitate towards it due to its rich nutrient profile, aiding in my overall health—particularly for heart disease. Cocoa is filled with antioxidants and minerals like magnesium and iron, important for heart protection and mood enhancement. The flavour alone is enough to appreciate, but knowing it promotes health makes this a staple in my diet. I highly recommend trying it for its numerous benefits.
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8.5
Boosts heart health
15 people found this helpful
I enjoy this unique chocolate taste from organic cocoa. It’s a fantastic superfood, loaded with antioxidants and essential nutrients. I find that it positively influences my mood and health, particularly regarding heart disease. The process of cold-pressing maintains its nutrient integrity, making me feel invigorated. I love the versatility of using it in various recipes, knowing I’m benefiting my health with every cup.
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Frequently Asked Questions
9
Rich in nutrients
16 people found this helpful
This raw cocoa is simply divine! I gravitate towards it due to its rich nutrient profile, aiding in my overall health—particularly for heart disease. Cocoa is filled with antioxidants and minerals like magnesium and iron, important for heart protection and mood enhancement. The flavour alone is enough to appreciate, but knowing it promotes health makes this a staple in my diet. I highly recommend trying it for its numerous benefits.
6
Good for heart
40 people found this helpful
This Navitas Naturals cocoa is a solid alternative to conventional cocoa. It’s made from selected beans processed at low temperatures to retain nutrients. I love its taste and find that it enhances my energy and health. Knowing it's organic and non-GMO is a big plus. Though I enjoy it with milk and sugar, I appreciate its potential benefits for heart health and overall wellness. I consider it a worthwhile investment for daily use.
9
Aids heart function
67 people found this helpful
This raw, organic cocoa is superb! I find it essential, especially as I deal with iron deficiency and stress. The magnesium it provides calms me, and it’s packed with antioxidants, so I’m supporting my heart health. After enjoying a cup, I feel uplifted due to the beneficial compounds it contains. I love its flavour and the fact that it’s not roasted, so all nutrients remain intact. I thoroughly recommend this brand for those wanting a health boost and a delicious drink.
8
Promotes heart health
366 people found this helpful
I adore this raw cocoa, which is not only delicious but beneficial for heart health. The ancient Maya and Aztecs valued cocoa highly, and with its antioxidant properties, it genuinely uplifts my mood and promotes well-being. The fact that it’s certified organic makes it even better, devoid of nasty pesticides. I enjoy it in drinks and find that it contributes positively to skin health, helping to heal and rejuvenate. It’s versatile and a must-try for anyone seeking health benefits and a lovely drink.
8.5
Boosts heart health
15 people found this helpful
I enjoy this unique chocolate taste from organic cocoa. It’s a fantastic superfood, loaded with antioxidants and essential nutrients. I find that it positively influences my mood and health, particularly regarding heart disease. The process of cold-pressing maintains its nutrient integrity, making me feel invigorated. I love the versatility of using it in various recipes, knowing I’m benefiting my health with every cup.
7.5
Promotes wellness
2 people found this helpful
This cocoa is delightful and healthful. It surprised me with its rich flavour and long shelf life. Being a superfood, it’s packed with antioxidants and is beneficial for mood enhancement. I’ve found it helps with heart disease prevention, which is significant for my health. It’s sugar-free, making it perfect for my diet. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone seeking a tasty, health-boosting drink.
9
Supports heart health
Navitas Organics organic cacao powder is a fantastic addition to my daily protein drink. I blend it with blueberries and pistachios, and I've noticed a notable improvement in my physical condition. This cacao powder is abundant in cocoa flavonoids, which are beneficial for health. Studies suggest that cocoa consumption can stimulate brain function and rejuvenate blood vessels, supporting heart health. The 454 g package lasts a long time and is an excellent complement to a healthy lifestyle.
7.5
Good for heart
It's good for the heart, and I have it with my oats every morning.
8
We investigated how consuming milk and dark chocolate impacts heart health, particularly focusing on patients with heart failure. In our randomized crossover study involving 20 patients, we measured various heart-related parameters before and after they consumed different types of chocolate.
Remarkably, both varieties led to a significant drop in N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels, suggesting immediate benefits for heart failure patients. Notably, dark chocolate improved endothelial function, as indicated by increased flow-mediated dilation values.
Remarkably, both varieties led to a significant drop in N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels, suggesting immediate benefits for heart failure patients. Notably, dark chocolate improved endothelial function, as indicated by increased flow-mediated dilation values.
8
We examined the connection between chocolate consumption and long-term mortality, focusing on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and heart disease. Analyzing data from over 27,000 men over 30 years, we found that those who consumed higher amounts of chocolate had lower overall mortality rates and reduced risks for CVD and heart disease, showing risk reductions up to 16%. Additionally, an updated meta-analysis supported these findings, revealing that even small increases in daily chocolate intake were linked to a lower risk of CVD. Overall, moderate chocolate consumption may be beneficial for heart health.
8
Cacao improves oxidative stress metrics
We evaluated the effects of (-)-epicatechin rich cocoa (ERC) on oxidative stress in skeletal muscle among patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure. Over three months, we observed significant improvements in oxidative stress regulators.
Treatment with ERC improved glutathione levels and reduced harmful protein modifications. Additionally, in insulin-resistant mice, pure epicatechin showed similar heart-healthy benefits.
These findings suggest that cocoa can play a beneficial role in heart disease and diabetes management by mitigating oxidative stress.
Treatment with ERC improved glutathione levels and reduced harmful protein modifications. Additionally, in insulin-resistant mice, pure epicatechin showed similar heart-healthy benefits.
These findings suggest that cocoa can play a beneficial role in heart disease and diabetes management by mitigating oxidative stress.
7
We explored whether consuming chocolate could lower the risk of heart failure among 20,278 male physicians in a long-term study. Over 9 years, we regularly checked their chocolate intake and heart health, finding 876 new heart failure cases.
Although the overall results showed no significant benefit for chocolate consumption across all participants, a noticeable trend emerged: men with lower body weight (BMI under 25) who enjoyed chocolate five or more times a week had a reduced risk. This suggests that for some, moderate chocolate consumption may hold heart health benefits.
Although the overall results showed no significant benefit for chocolate consumption across all participants, a noticeable trend emerged: men with lower body weight (BMI under 25) who enjoyed chocolate five or more times a week had a reduced risk. This suggests that for some, moderate chocolate consumption may hold heart health benefits.
8
We evaluated the effects of consuming 30 grams of dark chocolate daily for one week on patients with stable coronary artery disease. This study involved 20 participants already on dual antiplatelet therapy.
Our findings revealed that cacao enhanced the action of clopidogrel, significantly decreasing platelet reactivity, but did not affect aspirin's effectiveness. While these results are promising, further long-term studies are needed to confirm these effects in heart disease management.
Our findings revealed that cacao enhanced the action of clopidogrel, significantly decreasing platelet reactivity, but did not affect aspirin's effectiveness. While these results are promising, further long-term studies are needed to confirm these effects in heart disease management.
4
Cocoa chocolate shows minimal benefits
This study set out to examine how 10 grams of cocoa-rich chocolate affects blood pressure and cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women.
Over six months, 140 participants were split into groups, with one consuming the chocolate daily while the other abstained.
We found that while there was a slight decrease in pulse pressure for those eating chocolate, the overall benefits on heart health appeared minimal. Importantly, no adverse effects were noted from the chocolate consumption.
Over six months, 140 participants were split into groups, with one consuming the chocolate daily while the other abstained.
We found that while there was a slight decrease in pulse pressure for those eating chocolate, the overall benefits on heart health appeared minimal. Importantly, no adverse effects were noted from the chocolate consumption.
References
- Seecheran NA, Sukha D, Grimaldos K, Grimaldos G, Richard S, et al. Effect of cocoa ( L.) on platelet function testing profiles in patients with coronary artery disease: ECLAIR pilot study. Open Heart. 2022;9. 10.1136/openhrt-2022-002066
- Bustamante-Pozo M, Ramirez-Sanchez I, Garate-Carrillo A, Ito B, Navarrete V, et al. (-)-Epicatechin Ameliorates Cardiac Fibrosis in a Female Rat Model of Pre-Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. J Med Food. 2022;25:836. 10.1089/jmf.2021.0158
- Dural İE, Onrat E, Çelik S, Vurmaz A, Yalım Z, et al. The Relationships Between Chocolate Consumption and Endothelial Dysfunction in Patients with Heart Failure. Turk Kardiyol Dern Ars. 2022;50:334. 10.5543/tkda.2022.21249
- Zhao B, Gan L, Yu K, Männistö S, Huang J, et al. Relationship between chocolate consumption and overall and cause-specific mortality, systematic review and updated meta-analysis. Eur J Epidemiol. 2022;37:321. 10.1007/s10654-022-00858-5
- Sesso HD, Manson JE, Aragaki AK, Rist PM, Johnson LG, et al. Effect of cocoa flavanol supplementation for the prevention of cardiovascular disease events: the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS) randomized clinical trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2022;115:1490. 10.1093/ajcn/nqac055
- Sari N, Katanasaka Y, Honda H, Miyazaki Y, Sunagawa Y, et al. Cacao Bean Polyphenols Inhibit Cardiac Hypertrophy and Systolic Dysfunction in Pressure Overload-induced Heart Failure Model Mice. Planta Med. 2020;86:1304. 10.1055/a-1191-7970
- Garcia-Yu IA, Garcia-Ortiz L, Gomez-Marcos MA, Rodriguez-Sanchez E, Agudo-Conde C, et al. Effects of Cocoa-Rich Chocolate on Blood Pressure, Cardiovascular Risk Factors, and Arterial Stiffness in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Nutrients. 2020;12. 10.3390/nu12061758
- Li JW, Wang XY, Zhang X, Gao L, Wang LF, et al. (‑)‑Epicatechin protects against myocardial ischemia‑induced cardiac injury via activation of the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway. Mol Med Rep. 2018;17:8300. 10.3892/mmr.2018.8870
- Gong F, Yao S, Wan J, Gan X. Chocolate Consumption and Risk of Heart Failure: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies. Nutrients. 2017;9. 10.3390/nu9040402
- Dower JI, Geleijnse JM, Hollman PCh, Soedamah-Muthu SS, Kromhout D. Dietary epicatechin intake and 25-y risk of cardiovascular mortality: the Zutphen Elderly Study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2016;104:58. 10.3945/ajcn.115.128819
- Zempo H, Suzuki J, Watanabe R, Wakayama K, Kumagai H, et al. Cacao polyphenols ameliorate autoimmune myocarditis in mice. Hypertens Res. 2016;39:203. 10.1038/hr.2015.136
- Kwok CS, Boekholdt SM, Lentjes MA, Loke YK, Luben RN, et al. Habitual chocolate consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease among healthy men and women. Heart. 2015;101:1279. 10.1136/heartjnl-2014-307050
- Petrone AB, Gaziano JM, Djoussé L. Chocolate consumption and risk of heart failure in the Physicians' Health Study. Eur J Heart Fail. 2014;16:1372. 10.1002/ejhf.180
- Gutiérrez-Salmeán G, Ortiz-Vilchis P, Vacaseydel CM, Garduño-Siciliano L, Chamorro-Cevallos G, et al. Effects of (-)-epicatechin on a diet-induced rat model of cardiometabolic risk factors. Eur J Pharmacol. 2014;728:24. 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.01.053
- Horn P, Amabile N, Angeli FS, Sansone R, Stegemann B, et al. Dietary flavanol intervention lowers the levels of endothelial microparticles in coronary artery disease patients. Br J Nutr. 2014;111:1245. 10.1017/S0007114513003693
- Ramirez-Sanchez I, Taub PR, Ciaraldi TP, Nogueira L, Coe T, et al. (-)-Epicatechin rich cocoa mediated modulation of oxidative stress regulators in skeletal muscle of heart failure and type 2 diabetes patients. Int J Cardiol. 2013;168:3982. 10.1016/j.ijcard.2013.06.089
