Evidence supporting the use of: Cacao
For the body system: Parasympathetic Nervous System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cacao (Theobroma cacao) has scientific evidence suggesting it can support the parasympathetic nervous system, primarily due to its content of flavonoids, magnesium, and methylxanthines such as theobromine. Research has shown that cacao flavonoids have vasodilatory effects, potentially enhancing blood flow and supporting cardiovascular function, which are associated with parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) activity. Some studies indicate that cacao consumption may reduce stress and improve mood, possibly by modulating neurotransmitter systems or reducing cortisol levels. Magnesium, present in cacao, is also known to support relaxation and nervous system balance.

However, most studies focus on cardiovascular or cognitive benefits rather than direct, exclusive effects on parasympathetic nervous system activity. While there is evidence that cacao can help modulate autonomic balance (such as increasing heart rate variability), the direct causal link to robust activation of the parasympathetic nervous system is still under investigation and not conclusively established. Thus, the evidence is suggestive but not definitive, and more clinical trials are needed to fully validate cacao’s role in this context.

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