A headline promises a drink that can "unclog your arteries." The more realistic take is that certain foods can support endothelial function and nitric oxide, both of which influence blood flow. The drink discussed is cacao powder with high flavanols, sometimes paired with beetroot. That idea is worth unpacking with a bit more context.
This post explains why the endothelium matters, what cacao seems to do, and how to build a routine that is safe and realistic.
Endothelium, nitric oxide, and the chain reaction
Inside every artery is a single layer of cells called the endothelium. When it is healthy, it helps regulate blood pressure, keeps vessels flexible, and discourages unwanted clotting. When it is damaged, inflammation increases and the body tries to repair the area. That repair can include calcium, protein, and cholesterol, which over time contributes to plaque.
A key molecule here is nitric oxide. It signals the vessels to relax and widen, improving blood flow. When nitric oxide drops, blood pressure can rise, the vessel wall can stiffen, and clot risk can increase. That is why strategies that maintain nitric oxide are often discussed in heart health conversations.
The cacao idea and what research suggests
Cacao powder contains flavanols, plant compounds that can stimulate the enzyme systems that produce nitric oxide. In the captions, the claim is that cacao can produce a vasodilation response similar to moderate exercise in a study. Another line of research suggests that cacao flavanols may reduce arterial stiffness. In small studies, older adults who consumed cacao daily for a short period showed improvements in measures of vascular function.
These findings do not mean cacao is a cure. They suggest a supportive effect that could add to other healthy habits. The effect also appears to be cumulative, meaning the benefit builds with steady use rather than a one time dose.
How to make a practical cacao drink
If you want to try this approach, the details matter. The goal is to preserve flavanols and avoid excess sugar.
Simple preparation tips
- Choose unsweetened cacao powder labeled high in flavanols if possible.
- Mix with warm water, not boiling. Excess heat can degrade the raw compounds.
- Consider adding beetroot powder. Beetroot provides dietary nitrates that convert to nitric oxide, while cacao supports nitric oxide production.
- A pinch of sea salt or a small dose of magnesium glycinate can improve taste and add minerals.
Timing with coffee
Caffeine can constrict vessels in the short term, which runs counter to the nitric oxide goal. If the goal is artery support, have cacao two hours before or after coffee. If the goal is more cognitive boost, the timing matters less and mixing with coffee is a personal choice.
Supportive habits that reinforce the same pathway
A drink is only part of a larger system. The same captions emphasize several habits that align with nitric oxide and endothelial support.
- Get regular sunlight exposure. Sunlight and infrared light can increase nitric oxide.
- Breathe through the nose. Nasal breathing increases nitric oxide in the airways.
- Move daily. Exercise is one of the most reliable ways to improve endothelial function.
- Keep magnesium and vitamin K2 adequate. Magnesium helps vessel relaxation and K2 is involved in calcium handling.
- Limit refined sugar and highly processed carbs. These are linked to metabolic stress that can damage the endothelium.
Reality check and safety
No drink literally scrapes plaque out of arteries. Plaque development and reversal are complex processes that involve diet, activity, sleep, medications when needed, and individual risk factors. If you have cardiovascular disease or take blood pressure or anticoagulant medications, check with a clinician before making major changes.
Cacao also contains theobromine and small amounts of caffeine. Sensitive individuals may notice palpitations or sleep changes. Start with a small serving and adjust based on how you feel.
Bottom line
Cacao with high flavanols is a reasonable, low effort addition that may support nitric oxide and vascular function. The best results come when it is paired with broader lifestyle changes: consistent movement, less refined sugar, and habits that protect the endothelium. Think of the drink as a supportive tool, not a stand alone fix.
Author/Source: Drberg