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Link to Slower Aging

Scientists have found that a beneficial compound found in coffee and chocolate is linked to a reduction in cellular aging. People who have higher levels of this alkaloid in their blood may age more slowly (based on molecular biomarkers).

This is according to a study published in the journal Aging, writes The Washington Post.

The authors of the work used data from more than 1,500 men and women from the UK and Germany. They analyzed the DNA of the study participants using a model that assesses aging based on molecular biomarkers.

In addition, the scientists measured the amount of theobromine in their blood, an alkaloid that is most common in cocoa and is also found in dark chocolate, coffee and tea.

The scientists found that higher levels of theobromine in the blood are associated with a decrease in the rate of aging. However, in the course of the study, its authors established an association, not a cause-and-effect relationship. Therefore, the study cannot show how much theobromine-containing foods need to be eaten or drunk to get the anti-aging benefits.

In addition, the aging process is greatly influenced by DNA, and other factors such as behavior, environment and diet can “switch” individual genes.

“Our results suggest that theobromine can affect gene activity. And this contributes to aging,” explained the study’s lead author and Professor Jordana Bell of King’s College London.

It is possible that the effect on aging is due to interactions between theobromine and other components of chocolate that were not measured in the study.

The study has several limitations, including that the researchers did not study theobromine levels in the blood over a long period of time, and the data showed its level at a single point in time. In addition, biomarkers for assessing aging are not constant.

These are dynamic assessments. It simply means that at this point, looking at your DNA, we estimate that you appear to be aging a little slower or faster than we would expect based on your chronological age.

The findings add to the body of knowledge about other health-promoting compounds in dark chocolate. However, when choosing this product, it is important to remember the recommended daily intake.

And to feel good, it is worth following a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, getting enough sleep and avoiding stress when possible.

MAMMY COFFEE