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

New Delhi: A recent study by researchers from the University of Surrey, UK, has revealed that incorporating certain flavanol-rich foods—such as dark chocolate, grapes, tea, and apples—into daily diets may help reduce high blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.

Published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, the research analyzed data from 145 randomized controlled trials and found that naturally occurring compounds known as flavan-3-ols can have significant positive effects on blood pressure. These compounds are abundant in commonly consumed foods like cocoa, black and green tea, apples, and various berries and grapes.

According to the findings, individuals with elevated or high blood pressure experienced the most benefit from these foods. In some cases, the average reduction in blood pressure achieved through regular consumption of flavan-3-ols was comparable to the effect of certain medications used to treat hypertension.

Lead author Professor Christian Heiss, Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Surrey, emphasized the accessibility and enjoyment of these dietary changes. “The findings are encouraging for those looking for accessible ways to manage their blood pressure and support their heart health through enjoyable dietary changes,” he said. He noted that including small amounts of flavan-3-ol-rich foods in a balanced daily diet may provide beneficial effects.

Beyond blood pressure, flavan-3-ols were also found to improve the function of the endothelium, the thin inner lining of blood vessels, which plays a vital role in maintaining cardiovascular health. This endothelial improvement occurred independently of blood pressure reduction, indicating a wider range of heart-related benefits.

While researchers caution that flavan-3-ols are not a substitute for prescribed medications or professional medical advice, they suggest that these findings open up promising avenues for non-pharmacological support in managing hypertension. The study highlights the potential value of diet-based strategies as part of a broader lifestyle approach to improving heart health.

High blood pressure remains a leading global health issue, affecting over 1.28 billion adults worldwide. It is a major risk factor for life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and kidney disease. Alongside medical treatments, lifestyle changes like improved nutrition, regular physical activity, and quitting smoking are vital in controlling the condition.

This study adds to growing evidence that what we eat can have a meaningful impact on our heart and vascular health.