Ingredient in popular drink ‘may slash heart attack and diabetes risk’

If you’re on the hunt for a ‘healthy’ beverage, you might immediately think of a smoothie, protein shake or something green. However, research suggests that a certain hot drink could be more beneficial than you’d expect – and it’s brilliant news for those with a sweet tooth.

Last year, scientists lauded a key component of this drink for its ‘flavonoids’, natural compounds known for their ‘antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties’. These are also believed to offer ‘benefits for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes’.

And if you thought it couldn’t get any better, it’s even proposed that such an ingredient can reduce ‘bad cholesterol’ levels, potentially cutting the risk of cardiovascular disease or a heart attack. This comes amid alarming statistics from the British Heart Foundation, which indicate that a heart attack occurs every five minutes in the UK.

Shockingly, the ingredient in question is actually chocolate. And what better way to savour it than in a hot chocolate? Healthline stresses that it isn’t just any chocolate but cacao – cocoa in its unprocessed form.

What are the signs of a heart attack?

According to the NHS, critical signs of a heart attack may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting)
• An overwhelming feeling of anxiety (similar to a panic attack)
• Coughing or wheezing
• Chest pain – a feeling of pressure, heaviness, tightness or squeezing across your chest
• Pain in other parts of the body – it can feel as if the pain is spreading from your chest to your arms (usually the left arm, but it can affect both arms), jaw, neck, back and tummy
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Sweating

While this chest pain is often severe, some people may only experience minor pain, similar to indigestion, the NHS states. Dr Lawrence Cunningham, a retired GP at UK Care Guide, also previously told the Express: “In my experience, I’ve encountered patients who had no idea they’d experienced a heart attack until a routine check-up or subsequent complications revealed it. This can happen due to how the heart attack manifests, affecting different nerves and areas of the heart.

“I always recommend being vigilant about symptoms such as chest discomfort – not necessarily pain – shortness of breath, nausea, light-headedness, or discomfort in the back, neck, jaw, or arms. It’s crucial to pay attention to these signs, especially if they are unusual for you.

“It’s vital to raise awareness about these differences in symptoms and encourage proactive healthcare behaviours among women. Regular check-ups and a good understanding of personal risk factors can make a significant difference. Remember, early detection and treatment are key.”