Yum! Cocoa cools inflammation and slows aging
In 2024, Americans spent more than $21 billion on chocolate treats -- and while 40% of folks say milk chocolate is their favorite, 28% like dark chocolate best. And it's the dark chocolate that contains less added sugar and more of the nutrient-rich cacao that delivers anti-inflammatory, heart-friendly, anti-cancer polyphenols, antioxidants and flavanols.
That cacao, which is made into an extract, is even used in cosmetics (good for the skin) and as a supplement. When taken daily, it can decrease blood pressure and, according to data gathered from 2014 to 2020 in the COSMOS clinical trial, lower the risk of death from cardiovascular disease in folks ages 60-plus by 27%. National CANCER Institute research papers also say cacao protects healthy cells from DNA damage.
And now a study in Age & Aging, using additional COSMOS data from nearly 600 folks, reveals that taking cacao extract supplements for two years can reduce levels of the inflammatory biomarker C-reactive protein (CRP) by over 8% a year. This slows down aging, because it helps protect the immune system, reduces cardiovascular system damage and lowers the risk of heart attack. It also protects other organs from inflammatory damage, reducing the chance of developing a wide range of chronic, age-related diseases.
So, if you want a younger ActualAge, take the test to find out your biological age at 4YOUngevity.com, enjoy cacao extract and dark chocolate (1 ounce a day) and explore your other options for staying young at heart -- and every other organ -- in my book, "The Great Age Reboot."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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