A cup of coffee has now become a daily routine that signals the start of the day. Drinking 1 to 2 cups of coffee a day not only enhances concentration but also reduces the risk of heart disease and heart failure. Adding one ingredient to coffee can provide even greater benefits for heart health. That ingredient is cocoa.

The American health information magazine 'Well and Good' featured an interview with Dr. Nikki Bart, a specialist in heart failure and heart transplants, and dietitian Colette Miko, introducing the benefits of coffee containing cocoa.

First, people who drink coffee tend to live longer than those who do not. According to a study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, drinking up to three cups of coffee a day can reduce the risk of death from heart disease and stroke.

 

However, Dr. Bart warned that this does not mean you have to drink coffee all day. He said, "Recent studies suggest that 1 to 3 cups is the optimal amount," and "more than that could be harmful."

People who drink coffee may have a lower risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

According to research, people who drink a moderate amount of coffee (3 to 5 cups a day) have a 15% reduced risk of heart disease compared to those who do not drink coffee at all. Miko stated, "Consuming more than 6 cups of coffee does not provide any positive or negative benefits for cardiovascular health."

 

While coffee itself has benefits for heart health, adding cocoa can further enhance these benefits. Some of the advantages of coffee and cocoa are similar. Dr. Bart said, "Like coffee beans, cocoa powder contains flavanols that have anti-inflammatory effects, relax blood vessels, and improve blood sugar regulation." Miko stated, "Flavanols have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. This can relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and positively impact heart health."

 

There is no need to use excessive amounts of cocoa to gain the benefits of adding cocoa to coffee. Unsweetened cocoa powder has a bitter taste, so using only a small amount is effective. Miko recommends adding up to 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder or raw cacao powder to your daily coffee to maximize heart health benefits.

 

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I only added cocoa powder, and my heart is strong.

Isn't it really amazing?

 

I like coffee, but I don't really like sweet flavors.

I'm just drinking either an Americano or a latte.

I should note down cocoa powder or raw cacao powder.