Maintaining healthy arteries is critical for cardiovascular wellness and overall health. Unfortunately, many people overlook simple, natural dietary choices that can make a huge difference to our arterial function and reduce heart disease risk. Dr. Eric Berg, a renowned health educator and global wellness expert, suggests this powerful drink made from cacao powder and beetroot that can help boost arterial health and improve circulation by regulating blood pressure. Take a closer look at this...
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Understanding arterial health and the role of nitric oxide
Arteries are blood vessels responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood from the heart to all parts of the body. Over time, factors like poor diet, chronic stress, smoking and inflammation, can cause endothelial damage, injury to the inner lining of the arteries. This damage leads to reduced production of nitric oxide, a vital molecule that helps blood vessels relax and dilate. When nitric oxide levels drop, the arteries become stiffer and less responsive, setting the stage for multiple cardiovascular issues in the future.
It causes:
- Increase blood pressure
- Greater risk of blood clots
- Stiffer arteries
In fact, research conducted by Dr. Eric Berg indicates that a staggering 90% of heart attacks result from the formation of blood clots, which occur due to damage to the endothelial tissues. Therefore, it is critical to support and enhance the production of nitric oxide, as this plays a vital role in maintaining the health of arteries and consequently decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cacao powder:
Cacao powder, especially in its raw and organic form, is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains flavonoids, antioxidants that stimulate the production of nitric oxide in blood vessels. Dr. Berg describes cacao as “exercise in a cup” because it promotes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), reverses arterial stiffness, and improves overall arterial function.
Regular consumption of cacao can:
- Enhance blood flow
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve cholesterol balance by reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) and supporting HDL (good cholesterol)
- Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to artery damage
The combination of these benefits helps maintain the elasticity and health of your arteries, crucial for heart health.
Beetroot
Another remarkably effective yet entirely natural component that pairs beautifully with cacao is beetroot. This vibrant vegetable is abundant in dietary nitrates, which the human body subsequently transforms into nitric oxide, thus enhancing the beneficial impacts on vascular health. Furthermore, beetroot is rich in betalains, which are robust antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory properties. It also delivers all the essential nutrients required by the body, including folate, potassium, and magnesium, all of which play a significant role in promoting cardiovascular wellness. The harmonious combination of these various compounds renders beetroot a significantly potent food that is advantageous for heart health and naturally elevates energy levels, stamina, and improves overall blood circulation. Moreover, consistent consumption of beetroot has been associated with enhanced exercise performance and a decrease in blood pressure, thereby making it a highly valuable inclusion in one’s daily nutrition regimen.
How to make this daily artery-friendly drink
1–2 teaspoons of organic raw cacao powder
1–2 teaspoons of beetroot powder or ½ cup fresh beetroot juice
1 cup of warm water, almond milk, or your preferred base
Optional: pinch of sea salt or magnesium glycinate for additional benefits
Mix all ingredients and enjoy this nutrient-dense drink once daily to support healthy arteries.
Dr. Berg's important tips for cacao consumption:
To juice out the maximum benefits from cacao powder, do the following:
Perfect timing (not too late, not too early): Avoid consuming cacao two hours before or after coffee. This prevents interference with cacao’s ability to stimulate nitric oxide production.
Choose organic: Organic cacao powder avoids harmful pesticides and chemicals making it a more healthier and cleaner drink option for arterial health.
Optional add-ons: Adding a pinch of sea salt or magnesium glycinate can support hydration and muscle relaxation, enhancing overall cardiovascular benefits.
Science says:
According to a
research published in PMC, cocoa exerts a beneficial impact on cardiovascular health, through the reduction of blood pressure and boosting blood to the arteries.
According to a
study exploring the therapeutic potential of beetroot juice in patients with peripheral artery disease, Beetroot juice boosts nitric oxide, improving blood flow and PAD management.
Numerous studies and insights gathered from various science and wellness professionals indicate that integrating this particular juice into your everyday regimen could significantly contribute to improving your cardiovascular health.
Overall, scientific evidence continues to highlight how small dietary additions can create meaningful improvements in heart and vascular function over time.