"Sinful Trio" SLASHES Metabolic Syndrome Risk
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted April 20, 2025
Are you tired of hearing your doctor’s endless “don’t eat this, don’t drink that” lectures?
Well, this Easter Sunday, I’ve got news that might just have you hopping happily to your pantry.
Turns out, some of life’s tastiest pleasures could help protect you from one of today’s most common health threats—metabolic syndrome.
Let’s dig into this mouth-watering research…
A recent study of over 6,000 participants found that a diet rich in polyphenol-packed foods—including the “sinful trio” of chocolate, wine, and coffee—can reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome by an eye-popping 23 percent.
You read that right. The very indulgences we’re told to avoid could actually be powerful weapons against this dangerous cluster of conditions.
The study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, challenges the long-held idea that “all pleasure is bad” when it comes to health.
For those who haven’t heard the term before, metabolic syndrome is a dangerous combination of high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, excess belly fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels that dramatically raise your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
With a staggering one in three American adults walking around with metabolic syndrome (and most completely unaware), this research couldn’t be timelier.
The secret? Polyphenols—potent plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Polyphenols are linked to reductions in insulin resistance and inflammation as well as improvements in blood vessel function—all key factors in metabolic syndrome.
So, instead of telling you what foods to avoid today, here’s a shopping list you might actually enjoy:
- Dark chocolate (the darker the better—and yes, those premium dark chocolate eggs in your Easter basket count)
- Coffee (yes, that morning mug is good for you)
- Red wine (in moderation, of course)
- Strawberries, grapes, and other berries
- Oranges and citrus fruits
- Açai
Of course, I’m not suggesting you start your day with a breakfast of chocolate-covered strawberries washed down with coffee and wine.
Moderation is still key, and these foods work best as part of an overall healthy diet.
But isn’t it refreshing to find that pleasure and health aren’t always at odds? The path to wellness can include a few of life’s greatest indulgences—maybe even a few treats from a sophisticated Easter basket.
P.S. Discover the simple metabolic health hack you’re probably NOT using.
Source:
Carnauba, R. A., Sarti, F. M., Coutinho, C. P., Hassimotto, N. M., Marchioni, D. M., Lotufo, P. A., Bensenor, I. M., & Lajolo, F. M. (2025). Associations Between Polyphenol Intake, Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and Metabolic Syndrome in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). The Journal of Nutrition, 155(2), 570-579.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
50-Cent Nutrient Puts the Brakes on Aging
Scientists discovered a remarkable “anti-aging” solution hiding in plain sight. It isn’t some exotic compound from a remote rainforest or an expensive laboratory creation. It’s a nutrient you can find at any pharmacy for less than the cost of a cup of coffee. The trouble is, most seniors aren’t getting enough of it, which researchers...
The Hidden Brain Risk Lurking in Your Living Room
If you’re reading this while settled into your favorite chair, you might want to consider standing up… New research uncovered something that might surprise you. Sitting too much can literally shrink your brain. But it gets worse… We all know being sedentary isn’t good for our health. However, researchers at Vanderbilt University uncovered something alarming....
“Biohack” Your Life Like a Billionaire?! Here’s How
You’ve probably seen the headlines about the billionaire who spent millions on “biohacking” to try to make himself younger. He measures hundreds of biomarkers and pops dozens of pills daily. And he’s undergoing experimental treatments that cost more than most folks’ houses. It may have left you wondering if regular people like you and I...
Do THIS Daily to Improve Strength, Flexibility, and Endurance
For any couch potatoes out there… I have some exciting news. If you’ve been avoiding exercise because you hate the gym or don’t have the time, that might be about to change. A groundbreaking study reveals how a few simple moves, done daily in your own home, could dramatically improve your fitness—even if you’ve skipped...
Mailbag: A Post-Prostate Cancer Blueprint for a Better Recovery
“My son just got his prostate removed because of cancer. He is doing well and recovering. My question is there any information you can forward with regards to his lifestyle? Are there things he should not eat, things he should be eating, is social drinking a risk, any vitamins that should be on his list?...
The Stroke-Boosting Threat Lurking in YOUR Arteries
We want to take a moment on this Memorial Day to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their courage, dedication, and selfless commitment to protecting our freedoms will never be forgotten, and their legacy lives on in the country they helped preserve. I’ve warned you...
20-Minute AM Hack Will Revolutionize How You Wake Up
If you feel like you’re in a fog for the first hour after your alarm goes off, you’re not alone. Mornings can be rough. That groggy, disoriented feeling isn’t just annoying—it’s a real physiological phenomenon called “sleep inertia.” And it can drag on for up to two hours after waking, even if you’ve had a...
Weekly Habit QUINTUPLES Your Cancer Risk
Everyone knows that sugar-sweetened sodas aren’t going to win any nutrition awards. That’s not news. But now, a disturbing new study suggests these soft drinks hide a deadly secret. A regular soda habit could do far more damage than just expand your waistline or raise your diabetes risk. The new research reveals these sugary treats...
Unlikely Duo Naturally SLASHES High Blood Pressure
Some things just naturally belong together—such as peanut butter and jelly, salsa and chips, or two peas in a pod. But there’s an unlikely pair that researchers say could do wonders for your heart health. A comprehensive new study from the University of Surrey has revealed that compounds found naturally in tea and chocolate can...
The Surprising Link Between Jaw Tension and Anxiety
Ever catch yourself clenching your jaw when you’re stuck in traffic or waiting for an important phone call? Well, it might tell you something important about what’s happening “upstairs.” Turns out, that jaw tension isn’t just annoying—it’s a direct hotline to your anxiety levels. And most of us don’t even realize we’re doing it. I’ve...