Unlikely Duo Naturally SLASHES High Blood Pressure

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted May 23, 2025

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 help lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel health.

Here’s everything you need to know to put this dream team to work for you…

Tea and chocolate contain potent compounds, called flavan-3-ols, which belong to a family of plant compounds known as flavonoids.

They act as powerful antioxidants, helping to protect our cells from damage. Now, a new study finds they are also a powerful way to support heart health.

Researchers analyzed data from 145 randomized controlled studies—the gold standard in scientific research. Their findings, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, show that regular consumption of these natural compounds significantly reduces blood pressure readings.

Even more exciting is that the benefits were most pronounced in those with elevated or high blood pressure. In other words, the folks who need it most.

In some cases, the pressure-lowering effects were comparable to those achieved with certain medications.

Now, to be clear, no one is ready to replace blood pressure medications with tea and chocolate quite yet. But these and other flavan-3-ol-rich foods, such as apples and grapes, are a great way to complement your current treatments.

And, over time, they may lead to a lowering of your current meds.

But that’s not where the benefits end. Interestingly, the study found that these same compounds improved the function of the delicate inner lining of our blood vessels (the endothelium).

This happened independently of the blood pressure changes, suggesting the flavan-3-ols offer broader cardiovascular benefits than previously understood.

A healthy endothelium is crucial for proper blood flow and plays a key role in preventing heart disease and stroke.

What does this mean for you? Simply adding small amounts of flavan-3-ol-rich foods into your daily diet could provide these benefits.

Consider enjoying:

• A daily cup of tea (green or black)
• A small piece of dark chocolate (the darker, the better)
• Fresh apples or grapes as snacks
• Foods containing natural cocoa powder

While more research is needed, this study adds to growing evidence that certain natural compounds in everyday foods can support heart health.

Remember, though, that balance is key. These foods work best as part of an overall heart-healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, stress management, and a varied diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.

And another thing…
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Source:

Vasiliki Lagou, Arno Greyling, Mario G Ferruzzi, et al., Impact of flavan-3-ols on blood pressure and endothelial function in diverse populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, 2025; DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwaf173