Scientists discover the huge heart benefit hidden in everyday foods

Greater consumption of polyphenol-rich foods is linked to better heart health and slower increases in cardiovascular risk during aging, according to sciencedaily.com.

People who frequently consume foods and beverages rich in polyphenols, such as tea, coffee, berries, cocoa, nuts, whole grains, and olive oil, may have healthier hearts.

A team from King's College London reported that individuals who followed dietary patterns rich in polyphenols had a lower predicted risk of cardiovascular disease.

Polyphenols are plant compounds that are associated with a wide range of health benefits, including support for the heart, brain, and gut.

Long-term findings in the United Kingdom

During the 11-year study, biomarkers showed that people with higher levels of polyphenol metabolites had lower cardiovascular risk scores. They also tended to have higher HDL cholesterol, also known as good cholesterol.

Expert approach to cardiac benefits

"Our findings show that long-term adherence to polyphenol-rich diets can significantly slow the increase in cardiovascular risk as people age. Even small, steady shifts toward foods like berries, tea, coffee, nuts, and whole grains can help protect the heart over time," explained Professor Ana Rodriguez-Mateos, lead author on the study.

Professor Yong Li added that "this research provides strong evidence that regularly including polyphenol-rich foods in your diet is a simple and effective way to support heart health. These plant compounds are widely available in everyday foods, making this a practical strategy for most people," reports ATSh.

The link between aging and cardiovascular risk

The researchers noted that although cardiovascular risk naturally increases with age, participants with higher polyphenol intake experienced a slower increase in risk over the 11-year period.