This is one of the most misleading parts of many viral health posts.
You cannot reliably diagnose or treat a circulation disorder with a food overnight.
If your legs and feet feel cold or uncomfortable because of a serious vascular problem, eating cocoa is not an adequate treatment.
Circulation problems can have many causes, including peripheral artery disease, diabetes, venous insufficiency, nerve disorders, medications, reduced mobility, and other medical conditions.
The appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Why Are Cocoa Flavanols Interesting?
Cocoa contains naturally occurring plant compounds known as flavanols.
These compounds have been investigated for their potential cardiovascular effects.
Researchers have studied whether cocoa flavanols may influence:
- Blood-vessel function
- Nitric oxide availability
- Vascular flexibility
- Blood pressure
- Cardiovascular health
This research is promising, but it does not mean that cocoa is a medication.
And not all chocolate products contain the same amount of flavanols.
Cocoa Powder Is Not the Same as Chocolate Candy
This distinction is important.
Many chocolate products contain significant amounts of:
- Added sugar
- Saturated fat
- Calories
A chocolate bar is therefore very different nutritionally from a small amount of unsweetened cocoa powder.
If you’re using cocoa as part of a healthy diet, choose an unsweetened product and pay attention to the overall ingredients and serving size.
A Simple Bedtime Cocoa Drink
If you enjoy cocoa and want to include it in your diet, you can prepare a simple drink without turning it into a supposed medical treatment.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup unsweetened milk or a suitable milk alternative
- Cinnamon, optional
- A small amount of sweetener, if desired
Directions
- Warm the milk gently.
- Add the unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Whisk thoroughly until smooth.
- Add cinnamon if desired.
- Avoid adding large amounts of sugar.
- Drink it as an ordinary nutritious beverage rather than as a treatment for circulation problems.
If caffeine or theobromine in cocoa affects your sleep, it may be better to consume it earlier in the day.
What Actually Helps Leg Circulation?
See more on the next page
