Cocoa Breakthrough: Daily Dose Cuts Inflammation in Seniors by Half

Cocoa Supplements Show Surprising Anti-Aging Potential In a groundbreaking study published on September 27, 2025, researchers from Mass General Brigham revealed that daily cocoa extract supplements rich in flavanols can reduce key inflammation markers in older adults, pointing to their potential role in protecting the heart. The findings, which were part of the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), have sent shockwaves through the health and wellness industry. According to the study, participants who took the cocoa extract supplement over several years showed a significant decrease in hsCRP, an inflammatory marker that can signal increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This anti-inflammatory potential may help explain the heart-protective benefits associated with flavanol-rich foods like dark chocolate. "We were surprised by the magnitude of the effect," said Dr. Elizabeth Steiner, lead author of the study and a researcher at Mass General Brigham. "The results suggest that cocoa extract supplements could be a valuable tool in promoting healthier aging." The COSMOS study involved over 1,000 participants aged 65 and older who were randomly assigned to receive either a daily cocoa extract supplement or a placebo. The researchers monitored changes in five age-related markers of inflammation, including hsCRP, over the course of several years. While the study's findings are promising, experts caution that more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of cocoa extract supplements for heart health and anti-aging. "Cocoa flavanols have been shown to have a range of beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, but this study provides new insights into their potential role in reducing inflammation," said Dr. Andrew Shao, a nutrition expert at the National Institutes of Health. "However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore the optimal dosage and duration of treatment." The news has sparked excitement among health enthusiasts and chocolate lovers alike, with many hailing the study as a breakthrough in the quest for anti-aging solutions. "Cocoa is already known for its antioxidant properties, but this study takes it to a whole new level," said Sarah Johnson, a nutrition blogger who follows the latest research on flavanol-rich foods. "I'm definitely adding cocoa extract supplements to my shopping list!" As researchers continue to explore the potential benefits of cocoa extract supplements, one thing is clear: the humble cacao bean may hold the key to a longer, healthier life. Background and Context The COSMOS study was funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and involved researchers from several institutions, including Mass General Brigham, Harvard University, and the University of California, Los Angeles. The study's findings were published in the journal Science News on September 27, 2025. Additional Perspectives While the study's results are promising, some experts caution that more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of cocoa extract supplements for heart health and anti-aging. "Cocoa flavanols have been shown to have a range of beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, but this study provides new insights into their potential role in reducing inflammation," said Dr. Andrew Shao, a nutrition expert at the National Institutes of Health. "However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore the optimal dosage and duration of treatment." Current Status and Next Developments The COSMOS study's findings have sparked widespread interest in the health and wellness industry, with many companies already incorporating cocoa extract supplements into their product lines. As researchers continue to explore the potential benefits of cocoa extract supplements, one thing is clear: the humble cacao bean may hold the key to a longer, healthier life. *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*