Heart disease: Cocoa supplement shown to slash the risk of dying from heart disease by 27%
The British Heart Foundation (BHF) says: “Heart and circulatory diseases cause a quarter of all deaths in the UK”. This equates, says the charity, to “more than 160,000 deaths each year – an average of 460 deaths each day”. Due to the impact of cardiovascular heart diseases on the population, it is crucial to be mindful of new treatments that could make a difference. Research suggests one supplement could make the difference with regards to reducing the risk of dying from cardiovascular diseases.
A new study says taking a cocoa supplement could reduce the risk of dying from heart or circulatory disease.
The study, conducted by Brigham and Women’s hospital found those who took the supplement were 27 percent less likely to die from a range of heart and circulatory conditions.
Doctor Howard Sesso, epidemiologist at the hospital said the results had revealed “promising signals that a cocoa flavanol supplement may reduce cardiovascular events and deaths”.
While the results of the study were promising, Doctor Sesso recommended: “Our message for consumers is to eat a healthy, balanced diet, rich in natural sources of flavanols.”
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The NHS has a number of recommendations for those who want to decrease the likelihood of cardiovascular disease developing.
Stopping smoking, having a balanced diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and cutting down on alcohol are recommended as ways to prevent cardiovascular disease.
So too is medication.
The NHS says: “If you have a particularly high risk of developing CVD, your GP may recommend taking medication to reduce your risk.”
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However, should a side effect not be present on the leaflet, it is still possible to report the side effect.
In 1964, the government set up the Yellow Card Scheme.
Through this scheme, the public could report side effects or problems with medicines or medicinal products.
Having submitted a report the MHRA would review it and decide whether further action was necessary.
In recent years, with the occurrence of the pandemic, the Government has created a Covid specific Yellow Card Scheme.
Through this portal the public could report issues with Covid related products and medications.
Whether this continues as a standalone scheme or is absorbed into the original is yet to be seen.
For more information on cardiovascular disease contact the NHS or consult with your GP.
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