If you’re keen to drink something ‘healthy’, chances are, you’ll opt for a smoothie, protein shake or anything green. But research actually suggests that a certain hot drink is more beneficial than you might expect – and it’s good news for those with a sweet tooth.
Just last month, researchers praised a key ingredient of this beverage for its ‘flavonoids’ which are known for their game-changing ‘antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties’. When consumed, it’s believed these have the potential to reduce bad cholesterol and, in turn, slash the risk of a cardiovascular disease or a heart attack, while also providing possible benefits ‘for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes’.
Incredibly, the ingredient in question is actually chocolate. And what better drink to enjoy it in than hot chocolate? Importantly, Healthline clarifies that it isn’t any old chocolate but cacao – the raw, unprocessed version of cocoa.
Often, cacao products have very little to no sugar. “Cacao is a pure form of cocoa that’s generally less processed and more nutrient-dense than most other cocoa products,” experts at Healthline add.
