Flawan-3-oils are natural substances that occur in the usual foods and have the potential to improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system. A new study has studied the effect of these compounds on blood pressure and functioning of blood vessels.
Scientists have analyzed the data of 145 clinical experiments with the participation of more than 5200 people. Participants consumed foods rich in Flawan-3-oils, including cocoa, tea, grapes, apples. The focus was on two medical indicators: blood pressure and flow-mediated dilation, which characterizes the ability of vessels to expand.
The results were encouraging. On average, daily consumption of about 586 mg Flawan-3-oils, which is equivalent to several cups of tea or several portions of chocolate, allowed to reduce systolic pressure by 2.8 mm Hg. and diastolic - by 2.0 mm Hg. Art. Particularly noticeable was the effect of people with hypertension. In them, systolic pressure was reduced by 6-7 mm Hg. and diastolic - by 4 mm Hg. Art. Such indicators are comparable to the action of some medicines prescribed at high pressure. Flawan-3-oils, also known as catechins, are found in many products of plant origin. They are responsible for the bitter or tart taste in green tea, dark chocolate, grapes and apples. These compounds protect plants from solar radiation and pests, and for humans can be an effective means of prevention of heart disease. Scientists emphasize that the effect is achieved precisely through flavanoles in products, not in the form of additives. Previous large-scale studies have shown that the natural consumption of flavonols can reduce the risk of cardiovascular mortality by 27%.
This opens prospects for simple changes in the diet that can have a measurable effect on health. This is especially true for people with high pressure or those who are at risk of heart disease.
