Winter Cardiovascular Care: Recommended Anti-Inflammatory Drink for Heart Health and Cholesterol Reduction

Winter is a season of joy and celebration, but it can also pose some challenges for your health. Cold weather can increase your risk of cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Fortunately, there are some natural ways to protect your heart and blood vessels from the effects of low temperatures. One of them is drinking a warm and delicious beverage made with flax seeds and cocoa powder. This drink is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, which can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and improve blood flow.

In this article, you will learn about:

  • When the Weather Turns Cold
  • Flax Cocoa Drink Recipe
  • Benefits
  • Caution
  • Other Healthy Drinks for Winter
  • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Q1: What are the benefits of flax seeds?
    • Q2: Are there any side effects of flax seeds?
  • Reference

Table of Contents

When the Weather Turns Cold

As temperatures drop, blood vessels may constrict, leading to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular strain. Combat these risks by staying warm and enjoying a cup of this heart-warming beverage! This drink also contains anti-inflammatory ingredients that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. Moreover, this drink can boost your mood and energy levels, making you feel more alert and cheerful during the cold and dark winter days.

Flax Cocoa Drink Recipe

Prepare a simple and heart-healthy drink by blending these ingredients for 30–40 seconds:

Recipe (Serves 2)

Ingredient Amount
Flaxseeds 2 tablespoons
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder 2 tablespoons
Black Sugar or Honey 2 tablespoons
Soy Peptides 3-4 teaspoons
Cinnamon Powder a dash
Hot Water 500ml

Benefits

The Flax Cocoa Drink, rich in cocoa and flaxseeds, protects the cardiovascular system, aids in lowering cholesterol, and helps prevent arterial hardening. With its low calories and delightful taste, it’s a healthy and stress-relieving alternative to coffee, suitable for office-goers.

Cocoa’s abundant phytochemicals protect the cardiovascular system, maintain memory, prevent cognitive decline, and bolster the immune system. Flavonoids in cocoa, particularly epicatechin, contribute to its antioxidant power. A recent study found that cocoa consumption was associated with lower blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, and lower risk of cardiovascular mortality.

Additionally, cocoa contains the rare methylxanthine compound “theobromine,” offering alertness, cardiovascular and neurological protection, fat-burning promotion, and mood improvement. Theobromine has been shown to enhance cognitive performance, reduce fatigue, and improve mood. It also stimulates the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.

Flaxseeds are another superfood that can benefit your heart and overall health. Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cholesterol-lowering effects. Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation, prevent blood clots, and lower triglycerides. Lignans are phytoestrogens that can modulate hormone levels and protect against breast and prostate cancer. Fiber can help regulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and promote bowel health.

Caution

Not all commercially available cocoa is beneficial. Products with added sugar and oil dilute the health benefits. Choose products with at least 80% cocoa content and minimal added sugar or fats for optimal health benefits. Also, avoid consuming too much cocoa, as it may cause insomnia, anxiety, or heart palpitations due to its caffeine and theobromine content. A moderate intake of 1-2 tablespoons per day is recommended.

Flaxseeds are generally safe and well-tolerated, but they may interact with some medications or cause allergic reactions in some people. Consult your doctor before adding flaxseeds to your diet if you have any medical conditions or take any medications. Also, drink plenty of water when consuming flaxseeds, as they absorb water and may cause constipation or intestinal blockage if not hydrated properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the benefits of flax seeds?

Flax seeds are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber, which can benefit your heart, brain, skin, and digestive health. They can also help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, inflammation, and cancer risk.

Q2: Are there any side effects of flax seeds?

Flax seeds are generally safe and well-tolerated, but they may cause some side effects such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation. They may also interact with some medications or cause allergic reactions in some people. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before adding flax seeds to your diet, especially if you have any medical conditions or take any medications.

Reference

  • Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Flaxseed Oil and Curcumin in an Animal Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
  • Cocoa and chocolate consumption – are there aphrodisiac and other benefits for human health?
  • Theobromine and the pharmacology of cocoa
  • Theobromine inhibits uric acid crystallization. A potential application in the treatment of gout
  • Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease: epidemiology and effects on cardiometabolic risk factors
  • Flaxseed and its lignan and oil components: can they play a role in reducing the risk of and improving the treatment of breast cancer?
  • The health benefits of dietary fibre

You may be interested in these articles:

Bisphenol A (BPA) Health Risks Unveiled

Can I Eat Fruits with Gastroesophageal Reflux?

4 Bad Eating Habits that Torture Your Stomach

4 Types of Foods That Act as Sleep Thieves

4 Kinds of Midnight Snacking Without Disturbing Sleep

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