Cocoa May Mitigate Effects of Stress-Induced Fatty Food Cravings

New research indicates that cocoa may provide a beneficial countermeasure for those who turn to fatty comfort foods during periods of stress. According to findings from a study conducted by the University of Birmingham in the UK, consuming cocoa could help individuals recover more swiftly from the stress-related physiological effects associated with a high-fat diet.

Stress can have a significant impact on the body, and indulging in fatty foods during such times may prolong the recovery process. The study suggests that cocoa, rich in flavonoids, can protect vascular function, which often suffers during stress, leading to issues such as elevated blood pressure.

The research involved 23 healthy young adults who participated in a high-fat meal experiment. Participants consumed either a cocoa drink with high levels of epicatechin or one with lower levels approximately 90 minutes before undergoing a mental stress test lasting eight minutes. Researchers assessed vascular function by measuring the dilation of the brachial artery, which indicates how well an artery can widen in response to increased blood flow.

The results revealed that individuals who consumed the high-epicatechin cocoa drink exhibited improved vascular function recovery after the stress test. Specifically, their flow-mediated dilation measurements were lower at the 30-minute mark but showed significant improvement by the 90-minute follow-up, suggesting a quicker recovery compared to those who consumed the low-epicatechin drink.

The study also evaluated various other stress indicators, such as prefrontal cortical oxygenation, blood flow, blood pressure, and overall mood. However, no notable differences were observed between the two groups regarding these measurements.

Research indicates that high-fat foods, while often comforting, can negatively impact recovery from stress. The study's lead researcher emphasized that individuals in high-stress occupations may experience increased cardiovascular disease risk, attributed to ongoing vascular function impairments stemming from stress.

Chronic stress can elevate stress hormone levels, inflammation, and blood pressure, potentially leading to serious cardiovascular issues such as hypertension or heart attacks. A minor reduction in vascular function could correlate with a significant increase in cardiovascular disease risk, highlighting the importance of managing stress effectively.

The precise mechanisms by which fatty foods hinder recovery from stress remain unclear. However, previous research implies that the consumption of fatty foods may lead to increased triglycerides and C-reactive protein levels, which can impair endothelial function by reducing nitric oxide availability.

Cocoa's flavanols, particularly epicatechin, are believed to enhance nitric oxide availability, improving vascular function. Flavonoids, which include other sources like green tea and certain fruits, are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.

While cocoa appears to mitigate some stress-induced vascular issues, it may not significantly affect brain oxygenation changes caused by stress. These alterations in brain blood flow can impact cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and decision-making.

Despite these limitations, the findings offer a promising dietary strategy for those who may indulge in fatty foods during stressful times. Incorporating cocoa or other flavanol-rich foods alongside these meals could help minimize the adverse effects on vascular function.

To achieve similar flavanol benefits as used in the study, individuals could consume approximately 5.5 tablespoons of unprocessed cocoa, 2 cups of green tea, or 300 grams of berries. Although it is best to avoid high-fat foods during stressful periods, having cocoa as part of the meal can serve as a beneficial complement.