Small changes to your daily diet can have a significant impact on your heart health over time. According to health educator Dr. Eric Berg, a simple drink made with raw cacao and beetroot may help improve blood circulation, support healthy arteries, and promote better blood pressure by naturally increasing the body’s nitric oxide levels.
While no single drink can replace medical treatment or a balanced lifestyle, this nutrient-rich combination may provide valuable cardiovascular benefits when included as part of a healthy diet.
Why Nitric Oxide Is Essential For Healthy Arteries
Arteries are responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to every part of the body. Their inner lining, known as the endothelium, plays a crucial role in regulating blood flow and maintaining healthy blood vessels.
When this lining becomes damaged due to poor eating habits, chronic inflammation, smoking, or prolonged stress, the body produces less nitric oxide—a molecule that helps blood vessels relax and widen.
Lower nitric oxide levels can lead to:
- Stiffer arteries
- Reduced blood circulation
- Higher blood pressure
- Increased strain on the heart
Dr. Berg notes that damage to the endothelial lining is linked to many cardiovascular problems and emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy nitric oxide production to support long-term heart health.
How Cacao And Beetroot Benefit The Heart
The combination of organic raw cacao and beetroot works through two different but complementary mechanisms to improve vascular health.
Raw Cacao Boosts Blood Vessel Function
Raw cacao is naturally rich in flavonoids, plant compounds with powerful antioxidant properties that help stimulate nitric oxide production.
According to Dr. Berg, cacao supports:
- Better blood circulation
- Relaxation of blood vessels
- Reduced arterial stiffness
- Improved vascular flexibility
- Enhanced overall heart function
Because of these benefits, he describes cacao as “exercise in a cup” for its positive effect on blood flow.
Beetroot Naturally Increases Nitric Oxide
Beetroot is one of the richest dietary sources of natural nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide after consumption.
In addition to nitrates, beetroot also contains:
- Betalains, which help reduce inflammation
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Folate
Together, these nutrients support healthy blood pressure, improve circulation, and contribute to overall cardiovascular wellness.
When consumed together, cacao flavonoids and beetroot nitrates may work synergistically to promote healthier arteries and better blood flow.
How To Prepare The Drink
Making this heart-friendly beverage at home is simple.
Ingredients
- 1–2 teaspoons organic raw cacao powder
- 1–2 teaspoons beetroot powder or ½ cup fresh beetroot juice
- 1 cup warm water, almond milk, or your preferred milk
For added benefits, some people also include:
- A pinch of sea salt
- Magnesium glycinate
Mix all the ingredients well and enjoy the drink once a day as part of a balanced diet.
Dr. Berg’s Tips For Maximum Benefits
To get the most from this drink, Dr. Berg recommends a few simple precautions:
- Avoid drinking cacao within two hours of consuming coffee, as caffeine may interfere with nitric oxide-related benefits.
- Choose organic raw cacao whenever possible to reduce pesticide exposure and maximize antioxidant content.
- Consume the drink regularly rather than occasionally for consistent cardiovascular support.
What Does Scientific Research Say?
Several scientific studies support the potential cardiovascular benefits of both cacao and beetroot.
Research published through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has shown that cacao flavonoids may help improve blood vessel function, enhance circulation, and contribute to lower blood pressure.
Similarly, studies on beetroot have found that its naturally occurring nitrates increase nitric oxide production, improve blood flow, and may benefit people with conditions affecting circulation, including peripheral artery disease.
Can This Drink Replace Medical Treatment?
Although cacao and beetroot contain nutrients known to support heart health, this drink should not be viewed as a replacement for prescribed medications or professional medical care.
High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease require proper diagnosis and treatment. People with existing heart conditions, kidney disease, diabetes, or those taking blood pressure medication should consult their healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes.
The Bottom Line
A daily drink made with raw cacao and beetroot may naturally support healthier arteries by increasing nitric oxide production, improving blood circulation, and helping maintain normal blood pressure. Combined with regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and routine medical care, this simple beverage can become a valuable addition to a heart-healthy lifestyle.
While the science behind cacao and beetroot is promising, maintaining overall cardiovascular health still depends on long-term healthy habits rather than any single food or drink.