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Smolders L, Mensink RP, Plat J. An acute intake of theobromine does not change postprandial lipid metabolism, whereas a high-fat meal lowers chylomicron particle number. Nutr Res 2017; 40:85-94. [PMID: 28438412 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2017.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Postprandial responses predict cardiovascular disease risk. However, only a few studies have compared acute postprandial effects of a low-fat, high-carbohydrate (LF) meal with a high-fat, low-carbohydrate (HF) meal. Furthermore, theobromine has favorably affected fasting lipids, but postprandial effects are unknown. Because both fat and theobromine have been reported to increase fasting apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) concentrations, the main hypothesis of this randomized, double-blind crossover study was that acute consumption of an HF meal and a theobromine meal increased postprandial apoA-I concentrations, when compared with an LF meal. Theobromine was added to the LF meal. Nine healthy men completed the study. After meal intake, blood was sampled frequently for 4hours. Postprandial apoA-I concentrations were comparable after intake of the 3 meals. Apolipoprotein B48 curves, however, were significantly lower and those of triacylglycerol were significantly higher after HF as compared with LF consumption. Postprandial free fatty acid concentrations decreased less, and glucose and insulin concentrations increased less after HF meal consumption. Except for an increase in the incremental area under the curve for insulin, theobromine did not modify responses of the LF meal. These data show that acute HF and theobromine consumption does not change postprandial apoA-I concentrations. Furthermore, acute HF consumption had divergent effects on postprandial apolipoprotein B48 and triacylglycerol responses, suggesting the formation of less, but larger chylomicrons after HF intake. Finally, except for an increase in the incremental area under the curve for insulin, acute theobromine consumption did not modify the postprandial responses of the LF meal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Smolders
- Department of Human Biology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, PO Box 616, 6200, MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Ronald P Mensink
- Department of Human Biology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, PO Box 616, 6200, MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Jogchum Plat
- Department of Human Biology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, PO Box 616, 6200, MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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Oñatibia-Astibia A, Franco R, Martínez-Pinilla E. Health benefits of methylxanthines in neurodegenerative diseases. Mol Nutr Food Res 2017; 61. [PMID: 28074613 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201600670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Methylxanthines (MTXs) are consumed by almost everybody in almost every area of the world. Caffeine, theophylline and theobromine are the most well-known members of this family of compounds; they are present, inter alia, in coffee, tea, cacao, yerba mate and cola drinks. MTXs are readily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and are able to penetrate into the central nervous system, where they exert significant psychostimulant actions, which are more evident in acute intake. Coffee has been paradigmatic, as its use was forbidden in many diseases, however, this negative view has radically changed; evidence shows that MTXs display health benefits in diseases involving cell death in the nervous system. This paper reviews data that appraise the preventive and even therapeutic potential of MTXs in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases. Future perspectives include the use of MTXs to advance the understanding the pathophysiology of, inter alia, Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), and the use of the methylxanthine chemical moiety as a basis for the development of new and more efficacious drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafael Franco
- Molecular Neurobiology laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERNED, Centro de Investigación en Red, Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Martínez-Pinilla
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
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Ibero-Baraibar I, Romo-Hualde A, Gonzalez-Navarro CJ, Zulet MA, Martinez JA. The urinary metabolomic profile following the intake of meals supplemented with a cocoa extract in middle-aged obese subjects. Food Funct 2016; 7:1924-31. [PMID: 26961599 DOI: 10.1039/c5fo01191d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Metabolomics is used to assess the compliance and bioavailability of food components, as well as to evaluate the metabolic changes associated with food consumption. This study aimed to analyze the effect of consuming ready-to-eat meals containing a cocoa extract, within an energy restricted diet on urinary metabolomic changes. Fifty middle-aged volunteers [30.6 (2.3) kg m(-2)] participated in a 4-week randomised, parallel and double-blind study. Half consumed meals supplemented with 1.4 g of cocoa extract (645 mg polyphenols) while the remaining subjects received meals without cocoa supplementation. Ready-to-eat meals were included within a 15% energy restricted diet. Urine samples (24 h) were collected at baseline and after 4 weeks and were analyzed by high-performance-liquid chromatography-time-of-flight-mass-spectrometry (HPLC-TOF-MS) in negative and positive ionization modes followed by multivariate analysis. The relationship between urinary metabolites was evaluated by the Spearman correlation test. Interestingly, the principal component analysis discriminated among the baseline group, control group at the endpoint and cocoa group at the endpoint (p < 0.01), although in the positive ionization mode the baseline and control groups were not well distinguished. Metabolites were related to theobromine metabolism (3-methylxanthine and 3-methyluric acid), food processing (L-beta-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine), flavonoids (2,5,7,3',4'-pentahydroxyflavanone-5-O-glucoside and 7,4'-dimethoxy-6-C-methylflavanone), catecholamine (3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol-sulphate) and endogenous metabolism (uridine monophosphate). These metabolites were present in higher (p < 0.001) amounts in the cocoa group. 3-Methylxanthine and l-beta-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine were confirmed with standards. Interestingly, 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol-sulphate was positively correlated with 3-methylxanthine (rho = 0.552; p < 0.001) and 7,4'-dimethoxy-6-C-methylflavanone (rho = 447; p = 0.002). In conclusion, the metabolomic approach supported the compliance of the volunteers with the intervention and suggested the bioavailability of cocoa compounds within the meals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idoia Ibero-Baraibar
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain. and Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ana Romo-Hualde
- Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - M Angeles Zulet
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain. and Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain and Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Navarra, Pamplona, Spain and Biomedical Research Centre Network in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), National Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Alfredo Martinez
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain. and Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain and Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Navarra, Pamplona, Spain and Biomedical Research Centre Network in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), National Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Lin X, Zhang I, Li A, Manson JE, Sesso HD, Wang L, Liu S. Cocoa Flavanol Intake and Biomarkers for Cardiometabolic Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. J Nutr 2016; 146:2325-2333. [PMID: 27683874 PMCID: PMC5086796 DOI: 10.3945/jn.116.237644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cocoa flavanols may improve cardiometabolic health. Evidence from small short-term randomized clinical trials (RCTs) remains inconsistent, and large long-term RCTs testing the efficacy of cocoa flavanols are still lacking. OBJECTIVE We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs to quantify the effect of cocoa flavanol intake on cardiometabolic biomarkers. METHODS We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for RCTs that evaluated the effects of cocoa flavanols on biomarkers relevant to vascular disease pathways among adults. Data were extracted following a standardized protocol. We used DerSimonian and Laird random-effect models to compute the weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% CIs. We also examined potential modification by intervention duration, design, age, sex, comorbidities, and the form and amount of cocoa flavanol intake. RESULTS We included 19 RCTs that comprised 1131 participants, and the number of studies for a specific biomarker varied. The amount of cocoa flavanols ranged from 166 to 2110 mg/d, and intervention duration ranged from 2 to 52 wk. Cocoa flavanol intake significantly improved insulin sensitivity and lipid profile. The WMDs between treatment and placebo were -0.10 mmol/L (95% CI: -0.16, -0.04 mmol/L) for total triglycerides, 0.06 mmol/L (95% CI: 0.02, 0.09 mmol/L) for HDL cholesterol, -2.33 μIU/mL (95% CI: -3.47, -1.19 μIU/mL) for fasting insulin, -0.93 (95% CI: -1.31, -0.55) for the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, 0.03 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.05) for the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index, 2.54 (95% CI: 0.63, 4.44) for the insulin sensitivity index, -0.83 mg/dL (95% CI: -0.88, -0.77 mg/dL) for C-reactive protein, and 85.6 ng/mL (95% CI: 16.0, 155 ng/mL) for vascular cell adhesion molecule 1. No significant associations were found for other biomarkers. None of the modifiers seemed to qualitatively modify the effects of cocoa flavanol intake. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that cocoa flavanol intake has favorable effects on select cardiometabolic biomarkers among adults. These findings support the need for large long-term RCTs to assess whether cocoa flavanol intake reduces the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochen Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Center for Global Cardiometabolic Health, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Isabel Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Center for Global Cardiometabolic Health, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Alina Li
- Oxford College of Emory University, Oxford, GA
| | - JoAnn E Manson
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA;,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; and
| | - Howard D Sesso
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA;,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; and
| | - Lu Wang
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Simin Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Center for Global Cardiometabolic Health, Brown University, Providence, RI; .,Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; and.,Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School and Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI
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Tomé-Carneiro J, Visioli F. Polyphenol-based nutraceuticals for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease: Review of human evidence. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 23:1145-1174. [PMID: 26776959 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2015.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In addition to prescription drugs, nutraceuticals/functional foods/medical foods are being increasingly added as adjunct treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD), even though most of them have been exclusively studied in vitro. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE We review the available evidence (focusing on when the amount of polyphenols' intake was measured) coming from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of (poly)phenol-based supplements. CONCLUSION We conclude that (poly)phenol-based nutraceuticals and functional foods might be indeed used as adjunct therapy of CVD, but additional long-term RCTs with adequate numerosity and with clinically relevant end points are needed to provide unequivocal evidence of their clinical usefulness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao Tomé-Carneiro
- Laboratory of Functional Foods, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (IMDEA) - Food, CEI UAM+CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francesco Visioli
- Laboratory of Functional Foods, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (IMDEA) - Food, CEI UAM+CSIC, Madrid, Spain; Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35121 Padova, Italy .
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Structure-Bioactivity Relationships of Methylxanthines: Trying to Make Sense of All the Promises and the Drawbacks. Molecules 2016; 21:molecules21080974. [PMID: 27472311 PMCID: PMC6273298 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21080974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Revised: 07/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylxanthines are a group of phytochemicals derived from the purine base xanthine and obtained from plant secondary metabolism. They are unobtrusively included in daily diet in common products as coffee, tea, energetic drinks, or chocolate. Caffeine is by far the most studied methylxanthine either in animal or epidemiologic studies. Theophylline and theobromine are other relevant methylxanthines also commonly available in the aforementioned sources. There are many disseminated myths about methylxanthines but there is increased scientific knowledge to discuss all the controversy and promise shown by these intriguing phytochemicals. In fact, many beneficial physiologic outcomes have been suggested for methylxanthines in areas as important and diverse as neurodegenerative and respiratory diseases, diabetes or cancer. However, there have always been toxicity concerns with methylxanthine (over)consumption and pharmacologic applications. Herein, we explore the structure-bioactivity relationships to bring light those enumerated effects. The potential shown by methylxanthines in such a wide range of conditions should substantiate many other scientific endeavors that may highlight their adequacy as adjuvant therapy agents and may contribute to the advent of functional foods. Newly designed targeted molecules based on methylxanthine structure may originate more specific and effective outcomes.
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Effect of Cocoa and Its Flavonoids on Biomarkers of Inflammation: Studies of Cell Culture, Animals and Humans. Nutrients 2016; 8:212. [PMID: 27070643 PMCID: PMC4848681 DOI: 10.3390/nu8040212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation has been identified as a necessary step to mediate atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease and as a relevant stage in the onset and progression of several types of cancer. Considerable attention has recently been focused on the identification of dietary bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory activities as an alternative natural source for prevention of inflammation-associated diseases. The remarkable capacity of cocoa flavanols as antioxidants, as well as to modulate signaling pathways involved in cellular processes, such as inflammation, metabolism and proliferation, has encouraged research on this type of polyphenols as useful bioactive compounds for nutritional prevention of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Data from numerous studies suggest that cocoa and cocoa-derived flavanols can effectively modify the inflammatory process, and thus potentially provide a benefit to individuals with elevated risk factors for atherosclerosis/cardiovascular pathology and cancer. The present overview will focus on the most recent findings about the effects of cocoa, its main constituents and cocoa derivatives on selected biomarkers of the inflammatory process in cell culture, animal models and human cohorts.
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de Souza RJ, Eisen RB, Perera S, Bantoto B, Bawor M, Dennis BB, Samaan Z, Thabane L. Best (but oft-forgotten) practices: sensitivity analyses in randomized controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr 2016; 103:5-17. [PMID: 26675766 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.115.121848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A randomized controlled clinical trial is the best way to minimize bias in ascertaining treatment effects, but the credibility of the results of a trial depends on the validity of the methods used to analyze the data, and the conditions under which such methods produce valid answers. A sensitivity analysis is a method to determine the robustness of trial findings by examining the extent to which results are affected by changes in methods, models, values of unmeasured variables, or assumptions. The goal of a sensitivity analysis is to identify results that are most dependent on questionable or unsupported assumptions. In this article, we briefly review the current use of sensitivity analyses in a random sample of published nutrition literature and provide a guide on the use of sensitivity analyses in randomized trials as to when to consider them, what to consider when planning them, and different methods of implementing them. We propose an 8-step strategy for improving the approach to conducting and reporting sensitivity analyses in nutrition-based trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell J de Souza
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Rebecca B Eisen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences
| | - Stefan Perera
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences
| | - Bianca Bantoto
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences
| | - Monica Bawor
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences
| | - Brittany B Dennis
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences
| | - Zainab Samaan
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton and Hamilton Health Sciences Mood Disorders Program, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Center for Evaluation of Medicine, Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton Health Sciences, and System-Linked Research Unit, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada; and
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Cordero-Herrera I, Martín MÁ, Fernández-Millán E, Álvarez C, Goya L, Ramos S. Cocoa and cocoa flavanol epicatechin improve hepatic lipid metabolism in in vivo and in vitro models. Role of PKCζ. J Funct Foods 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2015.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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HPLC method for urinary theobromine determination: Effect of consumption of cocoa products on theobromine urinary excretion in children. Clin Biochem 2015; 48:1138-43. [PMID: 26141736 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2015.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To validate a simple method of urinary theobromine determination, to assess urinary theobromine levels in 80 healthy children and to relate these levels to consumption of cocoa products. DESIGN AND METHODS Urine samples were diluted, directly injected into an HPLC system, separated by gradient elution on a C18 column, and detected by UV spectrometry. The method was validated for linearity, limits of detection and quantification, imprecision, accuracy, recovery and interferences. The proposed method was used to assess 12-h day and 12-h night urinary theobromine excretion by 80 healthy children, divided into four groups based on consumption of cocoa products. In addition, urinary excretion of magnesium and oxalate, also present in cocoa, was measured in these four groups. RESULTS The method was linear to a theobromine concentration of 278μmol/L (50mg/L). LOD and LOQ for urine samples, diluted 1:5 (vol/vol) with water, were 1.1 and 3.6μmol/L respectively. Within-run and between-run imprecisions (CV) were each <2%. Average recovery was 99%, and analysis of a certified reference sample showed an error <2.5%. Theobromine excretion levels were significantly higher in healthy children with higher consumption of cocoa products (p<0.001), but oxalate (p=0.098) and magnesium (p=0.068) excretion levels did not differ significantly. CONCLUSION This validated method resulted in urinary theobromine determination with 100% recovery, without sample pretreatment. Urinary theobromine levels in healthy children were directly related to their consumption of cocoa products.
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Kerimi A, Williamson G. The cardiovascular benefits of dark chocolate. Vascul Pharmacol 2015; 71:11-5. [PMID: 26026398 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dark chocolate contains many biologically active components, such as catechins, procyanidins and theobromine from cocoa, together with added sucrose and lipids. All of these can directly or indirectly affect the cardiovascular system by multiple mechanisms. Intervention studies on healthy and metabolically-dysfunctional volunteers have suggested that cocoa improves blood pressure, platelet aggregation and endothelial function. The effect of chocolate is more convoluted since the sucrose and lipid may transiently and negatively impact on endothelial function, partly through insulin signalling and nitric oxide bioavailability. However, few studies have attempted to dissect out the role of the individual components and have not explored their possible interactions. For intervention studies, the situation is complex since suitable placebos are often not available, and some benefits may only be observed in individuals showing mild metabolic dysfunction. For chocolate, the effects of some of the components, such as sugar and epicatechin on FMD, may oppose each other, or alternatively in some cases may act together, such as theobromine and epicatechin. Although clearly cocoa provides some cardiovascular benefits according to many human intervention studies, the exact components, their interactions and molecular mechanisms are still under debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asimina Kerimi
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Maths and Physical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Gary Williamson
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Maths and Physical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
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62
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Effects of bioactive constituents in functional cocoa products on cardiovascular health in humans. Food Chem 2015; 174:214-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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63
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Feliciano RP, Pritzel S, Heiss C, Rodriguez-Mateos A. Flavonoid intake and cardiovascular disease risk. Curr Opin Food Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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64
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Martínez-Pinilla E, Oñatibia-Astibia A, Franco R. The relevance of theobromine for the beneficial effects of cocoa consumption. Front Pharmacol 2015; 6:30. [PMID: 25750625 PMCID: PMC4335269 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cocoa consumption began in America and in the mid sixteenth Century it quickly spread to Europe. Beyond being considered a pleasant habit due to its rich sweet lingering taste, chocolate was considered a good nutrient and even a medicine. Traditionally, health benefits of cocoa have been related with the high content of antioxidants of Theobroma cocoa beans. However, the direct psychoactive effect due to methylxanthines in cocoa is notable. Theobromine and caffeine, in the proportions found in cocoa, are responsible for the liking of the food/beverage. These compounds influence in a positive way our moods and our state of alertness. Theobromine, which is found in higher amounts than caffeine, seems to be behind several effects attributed to cocoa intake. The main mechanisms of action are inhibition of phosphodiesterases and blockade of adenosine receptors. Further mechanisms are being explored to better understand the health benefits associated to theobromine consumption. Unlike what happens in other mammals -pets- included, theobromine is safe for humans and has fewer unwanted effects than caffeine. Therefore, theobromine deserves attention as one of the most attractive molecules in cocoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Martínez-Pinilla
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Neuropharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra , Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | | | - Rafael Franco
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona , Barcelona, Spain
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Berends LM, van der Velpen V, Cassidy A. Flavan-3-ols, theobromine, and the effects of cocoa and chocolate on cardiometabolic risk factors. Curr Opin Lipidol 2015; 26:10-9. [PMID: 25551798 DOI: 10.1097/mol.0000000000000144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although there is growing interest surrounding the potential health benefits of cocoa and chocolate, the relative contribution of bioactive constituents for these effects remains unclear. This review summarizes the recent research on the cardiometabolic effects of cocoa and chocolate with a focus on two key constituents: flavan-3-ols and theobromine. RECENT FINDINGS Recent meta-analyses suggest beneficial cardiometabolic effects of chocolate following short-term intake, including improvements in flow-mediated dilatation, blood pressure, lipoprotein levels and biomarkers of insulin resistance. Flavan-3-ols may play a role, but it is currently unclear which specific compounds or metabolites are key. Theobromine has also been shown to improve lipoprotein levels in trials, although these findings need verification at habitual intake levels. Longer term dose-response randomized controlled trials are required to determine the sustainability of the short-term effects and the optimal dose. Quantifying levels of bioactives in intervention products and their metabolites in biological samples will facilitate the assessment of their relative impact and the underlying mechanisms of action. SUMMARY Promising data support the beneficial cardiometabolic effects of cocoa and chocolate intake, with significant interest in the flavan-3-ol and theobromine content. Validated biomarkers of intake together with more relevant mechanistic insights from experimental models using physiologically relevant concentrations and metabolites will continue to inform this research field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey M Berends
- Department of Nutrition, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK *Lindsey M. Berends and Vera van der Velpen contributed equally to the writing of this article
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Papadimitriou A, Silva KC, Peixoto EBMI, Borges CM, Lopes de Faria JM, Lopes de Faria JB. Theobromine increases NAD⁺/Sirt-1 activity and protects the kidney under diabetic conditions. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2014; 308:F209-25. [PMID: 25411384 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00252.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Reduction in sirtuin 1 (Sirt-1) is associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation in the diabetic kidney. Theobromine may reduce kidney ECM accumulation in diabetic rats. In the current study, we aimed to unravel, under diabetic conditions, the mechanism of kidney ECM accumulation induced by a reduction in Sirt-1 and the effect of theobromine in these events. In vitro, we used immortalized human mesangial cells (iHMCs) exposed to high glucose (HG; 30 mM), with or without small interfering RNA for NOX4 and Sirt-1. In vivo, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were rendered diabetic by means of streptozotocin and studied after 12 wk. The effects of treatment with theobromine were investigated under both conditions. HG leads to a decrease in Sirt-1 activity and NAD(+) levels in iHMCs. Sirt-1 activity could be reestablished by treatment with NAD(+), silencing NOX4, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) blockade, or with theobromine. HG also leads to a low AMP/ATP ratio, acetylation of SMAD3, and increased collagen IV, which is prevented by theobromine. Sirt-1 or AMPK blockade abolished these effects of theobromine. In diabetic SHR, theobromine prevented increases in albuminuria and kidney collagen IV, reduced AMPK, elevated NADPH oxidase activity and PARP-1, and reduced NAD(+) levels and Sirt-1 activity. These results suggest that in diabetes mellitus, Sirt-1 activity is reduced by PARP-1 activation and NAD(+) depletion due to low AMPK, which increases NOX4 expression, leading to ECM accumulation mediated by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 signaling. It is suggested that Sirt-1 activation by theobromine may have therapeutic potential for diabetic nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Papadimitriou
- Renal Pathophysiology Laboratory, Investigation on Diabetes Complications, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (Unicamp), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kamila C Silva
- Renal Pathophysiology Laboratory, Investigation on Diabetes Complications, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (Unicamp), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elisa B M I Peixoto
- Renal Pathophysiology Laboratory, Investigation on Diabetes Complications, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (Unicamp), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cynthia M Borges
- Renal Pathophysiology Laboratory, Investigation on Diabetes Complications, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (Unicamp), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jacqueline M Lopes de Faria
- Renal Pathophysiology Laboratory, Investigation on Diabetes Complications, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (Unicamp), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José B Lopes de Faria
- Renal Pathophysiology Laboratory, Investigation on Diabetes Complications, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (Unicamp), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
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He L, Pei H, Ma L, Pu Y, Chen J, Liu Z, Ran Y, Lei L, Fu S, Tang M, Peng A, Long C, Chen L. Synthesis and lipid-lowering evaluation of 3-methyl-1H-purine-2,6-dione derivatives as potent and orally available anti-obesity agents. Eur J Med Chem 2014; 87:595-610. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2014.09.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Revised: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Grases F, Rodriguez A, Costa-Bauza A. Theobromine inhibits uric acid crystallization. A potential application in the treatment of uric acid nephrolithiasis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111184. [PMID: 25333633 PMCID: PMC4205022 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the capacity of methylxanthines (caffeine, theophylline, theobromine and paraxanthine) to inhibit uric acid crystallization, and to evaluate their potential application in the treatment of uric acid nephrolithiasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The ability of methylxathines to inhibit uric acid nucleation was assayed turbidimetrically. Crystal morphology and its modification due to the effect of theobromine were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The ability of theobromine to inhibit uric acid crystal growth on calculi fragments resulting from extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) was evaluated using a flow system. RESULTS The turbidimetric assay showed that among the studied methylxanthines, theobromine could markedly inhibit uric acid nucleation. SEM images showed that the presence of theobromine resulted in thinner uric acid crystals. Furthermore, in a flow system theobromine blocked the regrowth of post-ESWL uric acid calculi fragments. CONCLUSIONS Theobromine, a natural dimethylxanthine present in high amounts in cocoa, acts as an inhibitor of nucleation and crystal growth of uric acid. Therefore, theobromine may be clinically useful in the treatment of uric acid nephrolithiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Grases
- Laboratory of Renal Lithiasis Research, University Institute of Health Sciences Research (IUNICS-IdISPa) and Faculty of Science of the University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
| | - Adrian Rodriguez
- Laboratory of Renal Lithiasis Research, University Institute of Health Sciences Research (IUNICS-IdISPa) and Faculty of Science of the University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
| | - Antonia Costa-Bauza
- Laboratory of Renal Lithiasis Research, University Institute of Health Sciences Research (IUNICS-IdISPa) and Faculty of Science of the University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain
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69
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Churchill S, Baum J, Farrell S, Al Khalifa F, Edelstein S. Collected Research on Phytonutrients: Alkaloids. JOURNAL OF CULINARY SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/15428052.2014.904832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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70
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Martínez-López S, Sarriá B, Baeza G, Mateos R, Bravo-Clemente L. Pharmacokinetics of caffeine and its metabolites in plasma and urine after consuming a soluble green/roasted coffee blend by healthy subjects. Food Res Int 2014; 64:125-133. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2014.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Revised: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Martínez-López S, Sarriá B, Sierra-Cinos JL, Goya L, Mateos R, Bravo L. Realistic intake of a flavanol-rich soluble cocoa product increases HDL-cholesterol without inducing anthropometric changes in healthy and moderately hypercholesterolemic subjects. Food Funct 2014; 5:364-74. [PMID: 24394704 DOI: 10.1039/c3fo60352k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
To assess whether antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other cardio-protective effects attributed to cocoa are achieved when regularly consuming moderate amounts of a flavanol-rich soluble cocoa product, a non-randomized, controlled, crossover, free-living study was carried out in healthy (n = 24; 25.9 ± 5.6 years) and moderately hypercholesterolemic (200-240 mg dL(-1); n = 20; 30.0 ± 10.3 years) volunteers. Participants consumed two servings per day (7.5 g per serving) of a soluble cocoa product (providing 45.3 mg flavanols per day) in milk, which was compared with consuming only milk during a 4 week period. The effects on systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate were determined, as well as on serum lipid and lipoprotein profiles, interleukins (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), vascular (VCAM-1) and intercellular cell adhesion molecules (ICAM-1), serum malondialdehyde (MDA), carbonyl groups (CG), ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and free radical scavenging capacity (ABTS). During the study, the volunteers' diets and physical activity were also evaluated, as well as any changes in weight, skin folds, circumferences and related anthropometric parameters. Cocoa and certain polyphenol-rich fruits and vegetables and their derivatives were restricted. After consuming the cocoa product positive effects were observed such as an increase in serum HDL-C (p < 0.001) and dietary fiber intake (p = 0.050), whereas IL-10 decreased (p = 0.022). Other cardiovascular-related biomarkers and anthropometric parameters were unaffected. We have therefore concluded that regular consumption of this cocoa product in a Spanish-Mediterranean diet may protect against cardiovascular disease in healthy and hypercholesterolemic subjects without producing any weight gain or other anthropometric changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Martínez-López
- Department of Metabolism and Nutrition, Institute of Food Science, Technology and Nutrition (ICTAN-CSIC) Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), José Antonio Nováis 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Bioavailability, bioactivity and impact on health of dietary flavonoids and related compounds: an update. Arch Toxicol 2014; 88:1803-53. [PMID: 25182418 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-014-1330-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 366] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There is substantial interest in the role of plant secondary metabolites as protective dietary agents. In particular, the involvement of flavonoids and related compounds has become a major topic in human nutrition research. Evidence from epidemiological and human intervention studies is emerging regarding the protective effects of various (poly)phenol-rich foods against several chronic diseases, including neurodegeneration, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, the use of HPLC-MS for the analysis of flavonoids and related compounds in foods and biological samples has significantly enhanced our understanding of (poly)phenol bioavailability. These advancements have also led to improvements in the available food composition and metabolomic databases, and consequently in the development of biomarkers of (poly)phenol intake to use in epidemiological studies. Efforts to create adequate standardised materials and well-matched controls to use in randomised controlled trials have also improved the quality of the available data. In vitro investigations using physiologically achievable concentrations of (poly)phenol metabolites and catabolites with appropriate model test systems have provided new and interesting insights on potential mechanisms of actions. This article will summarise recent findings on the bioavailability and biological activity of (poly)phenols, focusing on the epidemiological and clinical evidence of beneficial effects of flavonoids and related compounds on urinary tract infections, cognitive function and age-related cognitive decline, cancer and cardiovascular disease.
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73
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Theobromine, caffeine, and theophylline metabolites in human plasma and urine after consumption of soluble cocoa products with different methylxanthine contents. Food Res Int 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2014.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Scapagnini G, Davinelli S, Di Renzo L, De Lorenzo A, Olarte HH, Micali G, Cicero AF, Gonzalez S. Cocoa bioactive compounds: significance and potential for the maintenance of skin health. Nutrients 2014; 6:3202-13. [PMID: 25116848 PMCID: PMC4145303 DOI: 10.3390/nu6083202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Revised: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cocoa has a rich history in human use. Skin is prone to the development of several diseases, and the mechanisms in the pathogenesis of aged skin are still poorly understood. However, a growing body of evidence from clinical and bench research has begun to provide scientific validation for the use of cocoa-derived phytochemicals as an effective approach for skin protection. Although the specific molecular and cellular mechanisms of the beneficial actions of cocoa phytochemicals remain to be elucidated, this review will provide an overview of the current literature emphasizing potential cytoprotective pathways modulated by cocoa and its polyphenolic components. Moreover, we will summarize in vivo studies showing that bioactive compounds of cocoa may have a positive impact on skin health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Scapagnini
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso 86100, Italy.
| | - Sergio Davinelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso 86100, Italy.
| | - Laura Di Renzo
- Division of Human Nutrition, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome 00173, Italy.
| | - Antonino De Lorenzo
- Division of Human Nutrition, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome 00173, Italy.
| | | | - Giuseppe Micali
- Dermatology Clinic, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy.
| | - Arrigo F Cicero
- Department Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy.
| | - Salvador Gonzalez
- Dermatology Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10017, USA.
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Ibero-Baraibar I, Abete I, Navas-Carretero S, Massis-Zaid A, Martinez JA, Zulet MA. Oxidised LDL levels decreases after the consumption of ready-to-eat meals supplemented with cocoa extract within a hypocaloric diet. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2014; 24:416-422. [PMID: 24462367 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2013.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cocoa flavanols are recognised by their favourable antioxidant and vascular effects. This study investigates the influence on health of the daily consumption of ready-to-eat meals supplemented with cocoa extract within a hypocaloric diet, on middle-aged overweight/obese subjects. METHODS AND RESULTS Fifty healthy male and female middle-aged volunteers [57.26 ± 5.24 years and body mass index (BMI) 30.59 ± 2.33 kg/m(2)] were recruited to participate in a 4 week randomised, parallel and double-blind study. After following 3 days on a low-polyphenol diet, 25 volunteers received meals supplemented with 1.4 g of cocoa extract (645.3 mg of polyphenols) and the other 25 participants received control meals, within a 15% energy restriction diet. On the 4th week of intervention individuals in both dietary groups improved (p < 0.05) anthropometric, body composition, blood pressure and blood biochemical measurements. Oxidised LDL cholesterol (oxLDL), showed a higher reduction (p = 0.030) in the cocoa group. Moreover, myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels decreased only in the cocoa supplemented group (p = 0.007). Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (sICAM-1) decreased significantly in both groups, while Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) did not present differences after the 4 weeks of intervention. Interestingly, cocoa intake showed a different effect by gender, presenting more beneficial effects in men. CONCLUSIONS The consumption of cocoa extract as part of ready-to-eat meals and within a hypocaloric diet improved oxidative status (oxLDL) in middle-aged subjects, being most remarkable in males. REGISTRATION NUMBER Registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01596309).
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ibero-Baraibar
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - I Abete
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - S Navas-Carretero
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, CIBERobn. Carlos III Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - A Massis-Zaid
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - J A Martinez
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, CIBERobn. Carlos III Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain.
| | - M A Zulet
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, CIBERobn. Carlos III Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain
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Latham LS, Hensen ZK, Minor DS. Chocolate--guilty pleasure or healthy supplement? J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2014; 16:101-6. [PMID: 24734311 PMCID: PMC8031600 DOI: 10.1111/jch.12223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Revised: 09/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Dark chocolate and other cocoa products are popular in the population as a whole, but their overall health benefit remains controversial. Observations from the Kuna Indian population have shown an impressive cardiovascular health benefit from cocoa. For various reasons, this benefit has not been as robust as in other populations. Additionally, several mechanisms have been proposed that might confer cocoa's possible health benefit, but no consensus has been reached on cocoa's physiologic role in promoting cardiovascular health. Flavanols, as well as theobromine, may contribute to enhancements in endothelial function and subsequent improvements in various contributors to cardiovascular disease (CVD) including hypertension, platelet aggregation and adhesion, insulin resistance, and hypercholesterolemia. While the benefits of cocoa may be altered at the various stages of growth, development, and production, it appears that for many people "healthy" dark chocolate may, indeed, provide a pleasurable role in CVD risk reduction. The objectives of this review are to discuss the associations of cocoa with decreased blood pressure and improved CVD risk, to describe the possible mechanisms for these potential benefits, and to highlight considerations for the use of cocoa as a dietary supplement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura S. Latham
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Zeb K. Hensen
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Deborah S. Minor
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
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Franco R, Oñatibia-Astibia A, Martínez-Pinilla E. Health benefits of methylxanthines in cacao and chocolate. Nutrients 2013; 5:4159-73. [PMID: 24145871 PMCID: PMC3820066 DOI: 10.3390/nu5104159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
One may wonder why methylxanthines are so abundant in beverages used by humans for centuries, or in cola-drinks that have been heavily consumed since their appearance. It is likely that humans have stuck to any brew containing compounds with psychoactive properties, resulting in a better daily life, i.e., more efficient thinking, exploring, hunting, etc., however, without the serious side effects of drugs of abuse. The physiological effects of methylxanthines have been known for a long time and they are mainly mediated by the so-called adenosine receptors. Caffeine and theobromine are the most abundant methylxanthines in cacao and their physiological effects are notable. Their health-promoting benefits are so remarkable that chocolate is explored as a functional food. The consequences of adenosine receptor blockade by natural compounds present in cacao/chocolate are here reviewed. Palatability and health benefits of methylxanthines, in general, and theobromine, in particular, have further contributed to sustain one of the most innocuous and pleasant habits: chocolate consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Franco
- Cell and Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Neurosciences Division, Center for Applied Medical Research, Navarra University, Pamplona 31008, Spain; E-Mails: (A.O.); (E.M.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Ainhoa Oñatibia-Astibia
- Cell and Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Neurosciences Division, Center for Applied Medical Research, Navarra University, Pamplona 31008, Spain; E-Mails: (A.O.); (E.M.)
| | - Eva Martínez-Pinilla
- Cell and Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Neurosciences Division, Center for Applied Medical Research, Navarra University, Pamplona 31008, Spain; E-Mails: (A.O.); (E.M.)
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Kobori K, Maruta Y, Mineo S, Shigematsu T, Hirayama M. Polyphenol-Retaining Decaffeinated Cocoa Powder Obtained by Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction and Its Antioxidant Activity. Foods 2013; 2:462-477. [PMID: 28239130 PMCID: PMC5302282 DOI: 10.3390/foods2040462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2013] [Revised: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cocoa beans contain many functional ingredients such as theobromine and polyphenols, but also contain a relatively high amount of caffeine, which can negatively impact human health. It is therefore desirable to reduce caffeine levels in cocoa powder used to make chocolate or cocoa beverages while retaining functional ingredients. We have established conditions for supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO₂) extraction that remove 80.1% of the caffeine from cocoa powder while retaining theobromine (94.1%) and polyphenols (84.7%). The antioxidant activity of the decaffeinated cocoa powder (DCP) made with this optimized SCCO₂ extraction method was 85.3% that of non-processed cocoa powder. The total procyanidin and total polyphenol concentrations of the DCPs resulting from various SCCO₂ extractions showed a significant positive correlation with oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The correlation coefficient between total polyphenols and ORAC was higher than that between total procyanidins and ORAC; thus, the concentration of total polyphenols might be a greater factor in the antioxidant activity of DCP. These results indicate that we could remove large quantities of caffeine from conventional high-cocoa products while retaining the functional benefits of high polyphenol content. This SCCO₂ extraction method is expected to be applicable high-cocoa products, such as dark chocolate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinji Kobori
- Bourbon Institutes of Health, Bourbon Corporation, 4-2-14 Matsunami, Kashiwazaki City, Niigata 945-8611, Japan.
| | - Yuto Maruta
- Bourbon Institutes of Health, Bourbon Corporation, 4-2-14 Matsunami, Kashiwazaki City, Niigata 945-8611, Japan.
| | - Shigeru Mineo
- Bourbon Institutes of Health, Bourbon Corporation, 4-2-14 Matsunami, Kashiwazaki City, Niigata 945-8611, Japan.
| | - Toru Shigematsu
- Faculty of Applied Life Sciences, Niigata University of Pharmacy and Applied Life Sciences, 265-1 Higashijima, Akiha-ku, Niigata City, Niigata 956-8603, Japan.
| | - Masao Hirayama
- Bourbon Institutes of Health, Bourbon Corporation, 4-2-14 Matsunami, Kashiwazaki City, Niigata 945-8611, Japan.
- Faculty of Applied Life Sciences, Niigata University of Pharmacy and Applied Life Sciences, 265-1 Higashijima, Akiha-ku, Niigata City, Niigata 956-8603, Japan.
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Stellingwerff T, Godin JP, Chou CJ, Grathwohl D, Ross AB, Cooper KA, Williamson G, Actis-Goretta L. The effect of acute dark chocolate consumption on carbohydrate metabolism and performance during rest and exercise. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2013; 39:173-82. [PMID: 24476473 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2013-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Consumption of cocoa-enriched dark chocolate (DC) has been shown to alter glucose and insulin concentration during rest and exercise compared with cocoa-depleted control (CON). However, the impact of DC consumption on exercise metabolism and performance is uncertain. Therefore, we investigated carbohydrate metabolism via stable isotope tracer techniques during exercise after subjects ingested either DC or CON. Sixteen overnight-fasted male cyclists performed a single-blinded, randomized, crossover design trial, after consuming either DC or CON at 2 h prior to 2.5 h of steady-state (SS) exercise (∼45% peak oxygen uptake). This was followed by an ∼15-min time-trial (TT) and 60 min of recovery. [6,6-(2)H2]Glucose and [U-(13)C]glucose were infused during SS to assess glucose rate of appearance (Ra) and disappearance (Rd). After DC consumption, plasma (-)-glucose and insulin concentrations were significantly (p < 0.001) elevated throughout vs. CON. During SS, there was no difference in [6,6-(2)H2]glucose Ra between treatments, but towards the end of SS (last 60 min) there was a ∼16% decrease in Rd in DC vs. CON (p < 0.05). Accordingly, after DC there was an ∼18% significant decrease in plasma glucose oxidation (trial effect; p = 0.032), and an ∼15% increase in tracer-derived muscle glycogen utilization (p = 0.045) late during SS exercise. The higher blood glucose concentrations during exercise and recovery after DC consumption coincided with high concentrations of epicatechin and (or) theobromine. In summary, DC consumption altered muscle carbohydrate partitioning, between muscle glucose uptake and glycogen oxidation, but did not effect cycling TT performance.
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