Cocoa, Dark Chocolate and Olive Oil
Cocoa and dark chocolates contain polyphenol plant compounds, which increases the production of nitric oxide, a compound that reduces inflammation and improves physical function in people with arthritis.
Chocolates also contain sugar and fat, which may have negative effects of blood vessel function. For this reason, it is important to take dark chocolate with over 70% cocoa to take advantage of its benefits.
Olive oil is a major component of the Mediterranean diet. Studies show that it helps reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis. Olive oil also helps improve blood vessel function and reduce inflammatory markers, reducing the risk of heart disease.
A 2018 study showed that olive oil consumption plays a significant role in reducing atherosclerosis-related inflammatory markers and a decreased risk of complications and heart disease. Scientists believe that the positive effects of olive oil on blood vessels and heart health is because it contains high levels of polyphenols.