Did you know that drinking hot chocolate twice a day could have amazing benefits for your health and brain? According to a recent study, cocoa flavanols, the compounds that give chocolate its rich flavor and color, can boost the production of stem cells in your blood vessels. Stem cells are vital for repairing and renewing tissues and organs, and they may also protect against aging and diseases.

The study, published in the journal Circulation Research, involved 14 healthy adults who drank either a high-flavanol or a low-flavanol cocoa drink twice a day for four weeks. The researchers measured the levels of circulating stem cells in their blood before and after the intervention. They found that the high-flavanol group had a significant increase in stem cell numbers, while the low-flavanol group had no change.

The researchers also tested the function of the stem cells by exposing them to a chemical that causes oxidative stress, which can damage cells and DNA. They found that the stem cells from the high-flavanol group were more resistant to oxidative stress and had higher levels of antioxidants, which help prevent cell damage.

The researchers concluded that cocoa flavanols could enhance the production and function of stem cells, which could have implications for cardiovascular health, brain function, and tissue regeneration. They suggested that drinking hot chocolate twice a day could be a simple and delicious way to support your stem cell health.

However, before you rush to the nearest coffee shop or supermarket, keep in mind that not all cocoa drinks are created equal. The study used a specially formulated cocoa drink that contained 450 milligrams of flavanols per serving, which is much higher than most commercial products. The researchers also warned that adding sugar, milk, or cream to your cocoa drink could reduce or negate the benefits of flavanols. Therefore, if you want to try this experiment at home, look for high-quality dark chocolate or cocoa powder that has at least 70% cocoa content and minimal additives. And remember to enjoy it in moderation, as too much chocolate can also have negative effects on your weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol.

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