The Secret Weapons Against Stress Eating

It could undo the damage from fatty foods.

A recent study suggests that consuming foods and drinks rich in flavanols, like cocoa and green tea, could help reduce the negative impacts of stress-related eating, especially when paired with high-fat meals. Researchers from the University of Birmingham discovered that drinking flavanol-enriched cocoa during a fatty meal can help maintain healthy blood vessel function, even in stressful situations. This research sheds light on how flavanols—found in foods such as cocoa, tea, and berries—play a role in supporting heart health by managing blood pressure and promoting better circulation.

In the study, young, healthy participants were given a high-fat breakfast that included butter croissants, cheddar cheese, and whole milk. They were then randomly assigned to drink either a high- or low-flavanol cocoa beverage. After the meal, participants took a stressful math test, and their heart rate and blood vessel function were monitored. The findings revealed that those who drank the low-flavanol cocoa experienced a decline in blood vessel health that lasted up to 90 minutes after the test.

On the other hand, participants who consumed the high-flavanol cocoa maintained better vascular function throughout and after the stressful task. These results suggest that flavanol-rich beverages can help mitigate some of the harmful effects of fatty foods on vascular health, particularly in stressful conditions. This discovery offers a potential way to manage the health risks of stress-induced eating, especially for those who tend to reach for fatty foods when under pressure.

The researchers recommend incorporating flavanol-rich foods and drinks, such as minimally processed cocoa powder or green and black tea, into a balanced diet. To experience the benefits, they suggest consuming 400 to 600 milligrams of flavanols daily, which can be easily achieved by drinking two cups of tea or adding fruits like berries and apples to meals. This simple dietary strategy could help safeguard vascular health and improve overall cardiovascular function, particularly for those living in high-stress environments.

In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of making thoughtful food choices during stressful times. Small changes, like drinking flavanol-rich beverages, could significantly counteract the harmful effects of stress on the body, especially for individuals prone to unhealthy eating habits under pressure.