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Yang J, Zhou J, Yang J, Lou H, Zhao B, Chi J, Tang W. Dark chocolate intake and cardiovascular diseases: a Mendelian randomization study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:968. [PMID: 38200066 PMCID: PMC10781976 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50351-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous intervention studies have shown some benefits of dark chocolate for the cardiovascular system, but it has not been established whether dark chocolate intake is associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). To investigate the causality between dark chocolate intake and the risk of CVDs, a Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted. We obtained summary-level data on dark chocolate intake and CVDs from publicly available genome-wide association studies. In this MR study, the main approach was to use a fixed-effect model with inverse variance weighted (IVW) and evaluate the robustness of the results via sensitivity analysis. We found that dark chocolate intake was significantly associated with the reduction of the risk of essential hypertension (EH) (OR = 0.73; 95% CI 0.60-0.88; p = 1.06 × 10-3), as well as with the suggestive association to the reduced risk of venous thromboembolism (OR = 0.69; 95% CI 0.50-0.96; p = 2.81 × 10-2). However, no association was found between dark chocolate intake and the other ten CVDs. Our study provides evidence for a causality between dark chocolate intake and a reduced risk of EH, which has important implications for the prevention of EH in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juntao Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiedong Zhou
- School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Yang
- School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Haifei Lou
- Department of Cardiology, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingjie Zhao
- School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jufang Chi
- Department of Cardiology, Zhuji People's Hospital, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiliang Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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2
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Yuan D, Guo Y, Pu F, Yang C, Xiao X, Du H, He J, Lu S. Opportunities and challenges in enhancing the bioavailability and bioactivity of dietary flavonoids: A novel delivery system perspective. Food Chem 2024; 430:137115. [PMID: 37566979 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.137115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Flavonoids have multiple favorable bioactivities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor. Currently, flavonoid-containing dietary supplements are widely tested in clinical trials for the prevention and/or treatment of multiple diseases. However, the clinical application of flavonoids is largely compromised by their low bioavailability and bioactivity, probably due to their poor aqueous solubility, intensive metabolism, and low systemic absorption. Therefore, formulating flavonoids into novel delivery systems is a promising approach for overcoming these drawbacks. In this review, we highlight the opportunities and challenges in the clinical use of dietary flavonoids from the perspective of novel delivery systems. First, the classification, sources, and bioactivity of dietary flavonoids are described. Second, the progress of clinical research on flavonoid-based dietary supplements is systematically summarized. Finally, novel delivery systems developed to improve the bioavailability and bioactivity of flavonoids are discussed in detail to broaden the clinical application of dietary flavonoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Preparations, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China
| | - Yujie Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Preparations, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China
| | - Feiyan Pu
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Preparations, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China
| | - Can Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Preparations, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China
| | - Xuecheng Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Preparations, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China
| | - Hongzhi Du
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Preparations, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China.
| | - Jianhua He
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Preparations, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China.
| | - Shan Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Preparations, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, PR China.
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Weidong Wang, Zhang J, Liu Z, Zhu Y, Mei L, Tao Y, Jiang L. Xanthotoxol from Saussurea obvallata Attenuates LPS-Induced RAW 264.7 Cells Inflammatory Responses through NF-κB Pathway. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1068162022020248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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4
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Li C, Tian Y, Ma Q, Zhang B. Dietary gamma-aminobutyric acid ameliorates growth impairment and intestinal dysfunction in turbot ( Scophthalmus maximus L.) fed a high soybean meal diet. Food Funct 2022; 13:290-303. [PMID: 34889908 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo03034e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Over-substitution of fishmeal with soybean meal (SBM) commonly induces inferior growth and intestinal dysfunction in fish. This study aims to evaluate whether dietary gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) could ameliorate the adverse effects in turbot fed a high-SBM diet (HSD). Two hundred and seventy turbots were randomly divided into three treatment groups including turbots fed on a control diet (CNT, containing 60% fishmeal), an HSD (with 45% fishmeal protein replaced by SBM), and an HSD supplemented with GABA (160 mg kg-1) for 53 days. The growth and feed utilization parameters were calculated and the intestinal antioxidant status, inflammation, apoptosis, and microbiota were evaluated using assay kits, histological analysis, qRT-PCR, high throughput sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis. The results showed that GABA ameliorated HSD-induced growth impairment and enhanced feed intake of turbot. GABA ameliorated HSD-induced intestinal oxidative stress and apoptosis by restoring the MDA content, CAT and T-AOC activities, and apoptosis-related gene (Bcl-2, Bax, Bid, and Caspase-3) expressions to similar levels to those in the CNT group. GABA also alleviated HSD-induced intestinal inflammation through down-regulating the expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB p65 and up-regulating the expression of TGF-β1. Furthermore, GABA reversed HSD-induced microbiota dysbiosis through regulating the overall bacterial richness and dominative bacterial population. Spearman's correlation analysis indicated that the altered microbiota was closely associated with growth and intestinal function. Collectively, GABA could ameliorate HSD-induced intestinal dysfunction via relieving oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and microbiota dysbiosis, and these findings would contribute to a better understanding of the function of GABA in the fish intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Li
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China.
| | - Yuan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture (Ministry of Education), Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquaculture Nutrition and Feed, Ministry of Agriculture, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Qinyuan Ma
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China.
| | - Beili Zhang
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China.
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Rahman MM, Rahaman MS, Islam MR, Rahman F, Mithi FM, Alqahtani T, Almikhlafi MA, Alghamdi SQ, Alruwaili AS, Hossain MS, Ahmed M, Das R, Emran TB, Uddin MS. Role of Phenolic Compounds in Human Disease: Current Knowledge and Future Prospects. Molecules 2021; 27:233. [PMID: 35011465 PMCID: PMC8746501 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a natural protective mechanism that occurs when the body's tissue homeostatic mechanisms are disrupted by biotic, physical, or chemical agents. The immune response generates pro-inflammatory mediators, but excessive output, such as chronic inflammation, contributes to many persistent diseases. Some phenolic compounds work in tandem with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators' activity or gene expression, including cyclooxygenase (COX). Various phenolic compounds can also act on transcription factors, such as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) or nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), to up-or downregulate elements within the antioxidant response pathways. Phenolic compounds can inhibit enzymes associated with the development of human diseases and have been used to treat various common human ailments, including hypertension, metabolic problems, incendiary infections, and neurodegenerative diseases. The inhibition of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) by phenolic compounds has been used to treat hypertension. The inhibition of carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzyme represents a type 2 diabetes mellitus therapy, and cholinesterase inhibition has been applied to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). Phenolic compounds have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties to treat skin diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Plant extracts and phenolic compounds exert protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation caused by airborne particulate matter, in addition to a range of anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-aging, antibacterial, and antiviral activities. Dietary polyphenols have been used to prevent and treat allergy-related diseases. The chemical and biological contributions of phenolic compounds to cardiovascular disease have also been described. This review summarizes the recent progress delineating the multifunctional roles of phenolic compounds, including their anti-inflammatory properties and the molecular pathways through which they exert anti-inflammatory effects on metabolic disorders. This study also discusses current issues and potential prospects for the therapeutic application of phenolic compounds to various human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Mominur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (M.M.R.); (M.S.R.); (M.R.I.); (F.R.); (F.M.M.); (M.S.H.); (M.A.)
| | - Md. Saidur Rahaman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (M.M.R.); (M.S.R.); (M.R.I.); (F.R.); (F.M.M.); (M.S.H.); (M.A.)
| | - Md. Rezaul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (M.M.R.); (M.S.R.); (M.R.I.); (F.R.); (F.M.M.); (M.S.H.); (M.A.)
| | - Firoza Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (M.M.R.); (M.S.R.); (M.R.I.); (F.R.); (F.M.M.); (M.S.H.); (M.A.)
| | - Faria Mannan Mithi
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (M.M.R.); (M.S.R.); (M.R.I.); (F.R.); (F.M.M.); (M.S.H.); (M.A.)
| | - Taha Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohannad A. Almikhlafi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Taibah University, Madinah 41477, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Samia Qasem Alghamdi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Al-Baha University, Albaha 65527, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdullah S Alruwaili
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Science, Northern Border University, P.O. Box 1321, Arar 9280, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Md. Sohel Hossain
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (M.M.R.); (M.S.R.); (M.R.I.); (F.R.); (F.M.M.); (M.S.H.); (M.A.)
| | - Muniruddin Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (M.M.R.); (M.S.R.); (M.R.I.); (F.R.); (F.M.M.); (M.S.H.); (M.A.)
| | - Rajib Das
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh;
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong 4381, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Sahab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka 1213, Bangladesh
- Pharmakon Neuroscience Research Network, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
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Polyphenols-Gut Microbiota Interrelationship: A Transition to a New Generation of Prebiotics. Nutrients 2021; 14:nu14010137. [PMID: 35011012 PMCID: PMC8747136 DOI: 10.3390/nu14010137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The present review summarizes the studies carried out on this topic in the last five years. According to the new definitions, among all the compounds included in the group of prebiotics, polyphenols are probably the most important secondary metabolites produced by the plant kingdom. Many of these types of polyphenols have low bioavailability, therefore reaching the colon in unaltered form. Once in the colon, these compounds interact with the intestinal microbes bidirectionally by modulating them and, consequently, releasing metabolites. Despite much research on various metabolites, little is known about the chemistry of the metabolic routes used by different bacteria species. In this context, this review aims to investigate the prebiotic effect of polyphenols in preclinical and clinical studies, highlighting that the consumption of polyphenols leads to an increase in beneficial bacteria, as well as an increase in the production of valuable metabolites. In conclusion, there is much evidence in preclinical studies supporting the prebiotic effect of polyphenols, but further clinical studies are needed to investigate this effect in humans.
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Research Progress in Anti-Inflammatory Bioactive Substances Derived from Marine Microorganisms, Sponges, Algae, and Corals. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:md19100572. [PMID: 34677471 PMCID: PMC8538560 DOI: 10.3390/md19100572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is the body’s defense reaction in response to stimulations and is the basis of various physiological and pathological processes. However, chronic inflammation is undesirable and closely related to the occurrence and development of diseases. The ocean gives birth to unique and diverse bioactive substances, which have gained special attention and been a focus for anti-inflammatory drug development. So far, numerous promising bioactive substances have been obtained from various marine organisms such as marine bacteria and fungi, sponges, algae, and coral. This review covers 71 bioactive substances described during 2015–2020, including the structures (65 of which), species sources, evaluation models and anti-inflammatory activities of these substances. This review aims to provide some reference for the research progress of marine-organism-derived anti-inflammatory metabolites and give more research impetus for their conversion to novel anti-inflammatory drugs.
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Latif R, Majeed F. Association between chocolate consumption frequency and heart rate variability indices. Explore (NY) 2020; 16:372-375. [PMID: 32008980 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2019.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown favorable effects of chocolate products on the cardiovascular system and reported an inverse relationship between chocolate consumption and adverse cardiac events; however, relationships between chocolate eating habits and heart rate variability have not yet been studied. The purpose of the present research was to determine the relationship, if any, between chocolate consumption frequency and heart rate variability. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out in a group of 98 young females (19-21 years old). The study included the evaluation of chocolate eating habits by a questionnaire and heart rate variability parameters by Finometer and Powerlab as primary outcomes along with measuring anthropometry, blood pressure and fasting blood sugar levels as predictors to account for potential confounding. RESULTS Three chocolate eating patterns were distinguished: "No regular chocolate consumption (n:42), 2-4 servings/week (n:20), 5 or more servings/week (n:36)". An ANOVA test revealed insignificant differences (p > 0.05) in heart rate variability parameters (time domain: Heart rate, RRms, SDNN, RMSSD; frequency domain: LF, HF, LF/HF) and pressures (systolic, diastolic, pulse, mean arterial) among three groups of individuals having different chocolate eating habits. Relative frequency of chocolate intake did not correlate with any of the cardiovascular, time-domain or frequency-domain parameters of heart rate variability in study participants. CONCLUSION Based on our results, we conclude that relative frequency of chocolate eating may not affect autonomic regulation of the heart in young females. Also, it may have no correlation with any of the cardiovascular, time-domain or frequency-domain parameters of heart rate variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabia Latif
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
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Mohammadi Pour P, Fakhri S, Asgary S, Farzaei MH, Echeverría J. The Signaling Pathways, and Therapeutic Targets of Antiviral Agents: Focusing on the Antiviral Approaches and Clinical Perspectives of Anthocyanins in the Management of Viral Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1207. [PMID: 31787892 PMCID: PMC6856223 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
As the leading cause of death worldwide, viruses significantly affect global health. Despite the rapid progress in human healthcare, there are few viricidal and antiviral therapies that are efficient enough. The rapid emergence of resistance, and high costs, as well as the related side effects of synthetic antiviral drugs, raise the need to identify novel, effective, and safe alternatives against viral diseases. Nature has been of the most exceptional help and source of inspiration for developing novel multi-target antiviral compounds, affecting several steps of the viral life cycle and host proteins. For that matter and due to safety and efficacy limitations, as well as high resistance rate of conventional therapies, hundreds of natural molecules are preferred over the synthetic drugs. Besides, natural antiviral agents have shown acceptable antiviral value in both preclinical and clinical trials.This is the first review regarding molecular and cellular pathways of the virus life cycle, treatment strategies, and therapeutic targets of several viral diseases with a particular focus on anthocyanins as promising natural compounds for significant antiviral enhancements. Clinical applications and the need to develop nano-formulation of anthocyanins in drug delivery systems are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pardis Mohammadi Pour
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sajad Fakhri
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Asgary
- Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosein Farzaei
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Javier Echeverría
- Departamento de Ciencias del Ambiente, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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The Postprandial Appearance of Features of Cardiometabolic Risk: Acute Induction and Prevention by Nutrients and Other Dietary Substances. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11091963. [PMID: 31438565 PMCID: PMC6770341 DOI: 10.3390/nu11091963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of diets, food, and food components that affect postprandial inflammation, endothelial function, and oxidative stress, which are related to cardiometabolic risk. A high-energy meal, rich in saturated fat and sugars, induces the transient appearance of a series of metabolic, signaling and physiological dysregulations or dysfunctions, including oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, which are directly related to the amplitude of postprandial plasma triglycerides and glucose. Low-grade inflammation and endothelial dysfunction are also known to cluster together with insulin resistance, a third risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and type-II diabetes, thus making a considerable contribution to cardiometabolic risk. Because of the marked relevance of the postprandial model to nutritional pathophysiology, many studies have investigated whether adding various nutrients and other substances to such a challenge meal might mitigate the onset of these adverse effects. Some foods (e.g., nuts, berries, and citrus), nutrients (e.g., l-arginine), and other substances (various polyphenols) have been widely studied. Reports of favorable effects in the postprandial state have concerned plasma markers for systemic or vascular pro-inflammatory conditions, the activation of inflammatory pathways in plasma monocytes, vascular endothelial function (mostly assessed using physiological criteria), and postprandial oxidative stress. Although the literature is fragmented, this topic warrants further study using multiple endpoints and markers to investigate whether the interesting candidates identified might prevent or limit the postprandial appearance of critical features of cardiometabolic risk.
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11
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Flavanol Bioavailability in Two Cocoa Products with Different Phenolic Content. A Comparative Study in Humans. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11071441. [PMID: 31247980 PMCID: PMC6683251 DOI: 10.3390/nu11071441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cocoa has beneficial health effects partly due to its high flavanol content. This study was aimed at assessing the absorption and metabolism of polyphenols in two soluble cocoa products: a conventional (CC) and a flavanol-rich product (CC-PP). A crossover, randomized, blind study was performed in 13 healthy men and women. On two different days, after an overnight fast, volunteers consumed one serving of CC (15 g) or CC-PP (25 g) in 200 mL of semi-skimmed milk containing 19.80 mg and 68.25 mg of flavanols, respectively. Blood and urine samples were taken, before and after CC and CC-PP consumption, and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionisation and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-QToF-MS). Up to 10 and 30 metabolites were identified in plasma and urine, respectively. Phase II derivatives of epicatechin were identified with kinetics compatible with small intestine absorption, although the most abundant groups of metabolites were phase II derivatives of phenyl-γ-valerolactone and phenylvaleric acid, formed at colonic level. 5-(4′-Hydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone-sulfate could be a sensitive biomarker of cocoa flavanol intake. CC and CC-PP flavanols showed a dose-dependent absorption with a recovery of 35%. In conclusion, cocoa flavanols are moderately bioavailable and extensively metabolized, mainly by the colonic microbiota.
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12
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Influence of Diet Enriched with Cocoa Bean Extracts on Physiological Indices of Laboratory Rats. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24050825. [PMID: 30813510 PMCID: PMC6429181 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24050825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cocoa bean is a rich source of polyphenols, mainly flavonoids which have a wide range of biological properties. The aim of the study was to determine the physiological indices of laboratory rats as a response to diets containing water extracts of raw or roasted cocoa beans of Forastero variety, as well as purified monomeric flavan-3-ols fraction isolated from them. The influence of these extracts on selected parameters was studied during 4 weeks feeding. The samples of rats feces were collected throughout the experiment and after its completion, biological samples (intestines content, blood, and organs) were retrieved individually from each rat and subjected to analyses. The observed changes in the gastrointestinal tract functioning indices and metabolism indicators, determined throughout the study and after its completion, confirm to some extent the biological activity of polyphenol extracts of cocoa beans. The differences in the results obtained for the analyzed parameters of the gastrointestinal tract revealed that the cocoa bean extracts differently affected the physicochemical properties of rats' intestines. The results indicate the beneficial effects of the applied nutrition treatment on the activity of cecal enzymes and the content of volatile fatty acids in the gut.
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Żyżelewicz D, Bojczuk M, Budryn G, Zduńczyk Z, Juśkiewicz J, Jurgoński A, Oracz J. Influence of diet based on bread supplemented with raw and roasted cocoa bean extracts on physiological indices of laboratory rats. Food Res Int 2018; 112:209-216. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2018.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Assa A, Noor A, Yunus MR, Misnawi, Djide MN. Heavy metal concentrations in cocoa beans (Theobroma cacaoL.) originating from EastLuwu, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/979/1/012011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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15
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Hernández-Hernández C, Viera-Alcaide I, Morales-Sillero AM, Fernández-Bolaños J, Rodríguez-Gutiérrez G. Bioactive compounds in Mexican genotypes of cocoa cotyledon and husk. Food Chem 2018; 240:831-839. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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16
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Decroix L, Tonoli C, Soares DD, Descat A, Drittij-Reijnders MJ, Weseler AR, Bast A, Stahl W, Heyman E, Meeusen R. Acute cocoa Flavanols intake has minimal effects on exercise-induced oxidative stress and nitric oxide production in healthy cyclists: a randomized controlled trial. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2017; 14:28. [PMID: 28811749 PMCID: PMC5553857 DOI: 10.1186/s12970-017-0186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cocoa flavanols (CF) can stimulate vasodilation by improved nitric oxide (NO) synthesis and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities. This study aimed to examine whether acute CF intake can affect exercise-induced changes in antioxidant capacity, oxidative stress, inflammation and NO production, as well as exercise performance and recovery in well-trained cyclists. METHODS Twelve well-trained male cyclists (mean ± SD age, VO2max: 30 ± 3 years, 63.0 ± 3.5 ml/kg/min) participated in this randomized, double-blind, cross over study. On 2 separate occasions, subjects performed two 30-min time trials 1.5 (TT1) and 3 (TT2) hours after CF (900 mg CF) or placebo (PL, 13 mg CF) intake, interposed by passive rest. Lactate, glucose, heartrate, rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and power output were measured during the TTs. Blood was drawn at baseline, before and after each TT and analyzed for epicatechin serum concentrations, trolox equivalent antioxidative capacity (TEAC), uric acid (UA), malonaldehyde (MDA), L-arginine/ADMA, citrulline, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α plasma concentrations. Relative changes in blood markers and pacing strategy during TT were analysed by repeated measured ANOVA. TT performance was compared between PL and CF by paired t-test. RESULTS Epicatechin concentrations were increased by CF intake. Exercise-induced increase in TEAC/UA was improved by CF intake (F(1) = 5.57; p = .038) (post-TT1: PL: 113.34 ± 3.9%, CF: 117.64 ± 3.96%, post-TT2: PL: 108.59 ± 3.95%, CF: 123.72 ± 7.4% to baseline), while exercise-induced increases in MDA, IL-1 and IL-6 were not affected by CF intake. TNF-α was unaltered by exercise and by CF. Exercise-induced decreases in L-arginine/ADMA and increases in citrulline were not affected by CF intake. TT1 and TT2 performance and exercise-induced physiological changes were unaffected by CF intake. CONCLUSION Acute CF intake increased total antioxidant capacity in rest and during exercise, but did not affect exercise-induced lipid peroxidation, inflammation, nor NO production in healthy athletes. Acute CF intake did not improve TT performance and recovery. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN32875, 21-11-2016, retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieselot Decroix
- Human Physiology Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Physical Activity, Muscle and Health, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, Université de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Cajsa Tonoli
- Human Physiology Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Physical Activity, Muscle and Health, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, Université de Lille, Lille, France.,Department Rehabilitation sciences and kinesitherapy, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Universiteit Gent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Danusa Dias Soares
- Department of Physical Education, University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Amandine Descat
- Center of measurements and analysis (CMA), Facultyof Pharmaceutical Sciences, Université de Lille, Lille, France
| | | | - Antje R Weseler
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Aalt Bast
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Wilhelm Stahl
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Medicine, Heinrich-Heine University Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Elsa Heyman
- Department of Physical Activity, Muscle and Health, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, Université de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Romain Meeusen
- Human Physiology Research Group, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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17
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Abstract
It is well known that cocoa and dark chocolate possess polyphenols as major constituents whose dietary consumption has been associated to beneficial effects. In fact, cocoa and dark chocolate polyphenols exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities switching on some important signaling pathways such as toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor κB/signal transducer and activator of transcription. In particular, cocoa polyphenols induce release of nitric oxide (NO) through activation of endothelial NO synthase which, in turn, accounts for vasodilation and cardioprotective effects. In the light of the above described properties, a number of clinical trials based on the consumption of cocoa and dark chocolate have been conducted in healthy subjects as well as in different categories of patients, such as those affected by cardiovascular, neurological, intestinal, and metabolic pathologies. Even if data are not always concordant, modifications of biomarkers of disease are frequently associated to improvement of clinical manifestations. Quite interestingly, following cocoa and dark chocolate ingestion, cocoa polyphenols also modulate intestinal microbiota, thus leading to the growth of bacteria that trigger a tolerogenic anti-inflammatory pathway in the host. Finally, many evidences encourage the consumption of cocoa and dark chocolate by aged people for the recovery of the neurovascular unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thea Magrone
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Matteo Antonio Russo
- MEBIC Consortium, San Raffaele Open University of Rome and IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Emilio Jirillo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.,Fondazione San Raffaele, Ceglie Messapica, Italy
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Chocolate Consumption and Risk of Heart Failure: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies. Nutrients 2017; 9:nu9040402. [PMID: 28425931 PMCID: PMC5409741 DOI: 10.3390/nu9040402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2017] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have shown inconsistent findings on the association between chocolate consumption and risk of heart failure (HF). We, therefore, performed a meta-analysis of prospective studies to determine the role of chocolate intake in the prevention of HF. We searched databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus through December 2016 and scrutinized the reference lists of relevant literatures to identify eligible studies. Study-specific hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were aggregated using random effect models. The dose–response relationship between chocolate consumption and incident HF was also assessed. This meta-analysis is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42017054230. Five prospective studies with 106,109 participants were finally included. Compared to no consumption of chocolate, the pooled HRs (95% CIs) of HF were 0.86 (0.82–0.91) for low-to-moderate consumption (<7 servings/week) and 0.94 (0.80–1.09) for high consumption (≥7 servings/week). In dose–response meta-analysis, we detected a curve linear relationship between chocolate consumption and risk of HF (p for nonlinearity = 0.005). Compared with non-consumption, the HRs (95% CIs) of HF across chocolate consumption levels were 0.92 (0.88–0.97), 0.86 (0.78–0.94), 0.93 (0.85–1.03), and 1.07 (0.92–1.23) for 1, 3, 7, and 10 servings/week, respectively. In conclusion, chocolate consumption in moderation may be associated with a decreased risk of HF.
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DUARTE AAM, MOSTARDA C, IRIGOYEN MC, RIGATTO K. A single dose of dark chocolate increases parasympathetic modulation and heart rate variability in healthy subjects. REV NUTR 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-98652016000600002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effect of a single dose of dark chocolate (70% cocoa) on blood pressure and heart rate variability. Methods: Thirty-one healthy subjects (aged 18-25 years; both sexes) were divided into two groups: 10 subjects in the white chocolate (7.4 g) group and 21 in the dark chocolate (10 g) group; measurements were performed at the university's physiology lab. An electrocardiogram measured the sympathovagal balance by spectral and symbolic analysis. Results: A single dose of dark chocolate significantly reduced systolic blood pressure and heart rate. After consuming 10 g of dark chocolate, significant increases were observed for heart rate variability, standard deviation of RR intervals standard deviation of all NN intervals, square root of the mean squared differences between adjacent normal RR intervals root mean square of successive differences, and an increase in the high frequency component in absolute values, representing the parasympathetic modulation. Conclusion: In conclusion the importance of our results lies in the magnitude of the response provoked by a single dose of cocoa. Just 10 g of cocoa triggered a significant increase in parasympathetic modulation and heart rate variability. These combined effects can potentially increase life expectancy because a reduction in heart rate variability is associated with several cardiovascular diseases and higher mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Katya RIGATTO
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Brazil
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20
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Asiedu-Gyekye IJ, Antwi-Boasiako C, Oppong S, Arthur S, Sarkodie JE. Hematological changes and nitric oxide levels accompanying high-dose artemether-lumefantrine administration in male guinea pigs: Effect of unsweetened natural cocoa powder. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE RESEARCH 2016; 5:350-357. [PMID: 27757264 PMCID: PMC5061477 DOI: 10.5455/jice.20160721104042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unsweetened natural cocoa powder (UNCP), prepared after removal of the cocoa butter, is a common beverage in Ghana. It possesses antimalarial prophylactic property and has a beneficial effect on blood components. AIM The aim of this study was to determine whether regular dietary supplement of UNCP mitigates high-dose (HD) artemether-lumefantrine (A-L)-induced hematological disorders and to determine the effect on nitric oxide (NO) levels. MATERIALS AND METHODS Adult male guinea pigs (300 g - 350 g) were randomly divided into 5 groups of 6 guinea pigs each. Among the 5 groups, 3 groups were treated with UNCP (300, 900, and 1500 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days. A-L (75 mg/kg) was administered from the 12th to 14th day. One of the remaining 2 groups received distilled water only, i.e., vehicle control group (VCG) while the other received 75 mg/kg A-L only, i.e., negative control group (NCG). Blood samples from all groups were obtained by cardiac puncture (day 15) followed by hematological and NO analysis. RESULTS A-L reduced white blood cells (WBC) by 31.87%, lymphocyte count by 45.99%, hemoglobin by 11.72%, hematocrit by 18.56%, and platelet count by 33.08% in the NCG. Administration of various doses of UNCP increased WBC and lymphocyte count (P > 0.05) compared to the NCG. UNCP and A-L combination caused an increase in NO levels when compared to the VCG. CONCLUSION Regular consumption of UNCP by guinea pigs increases plasma NO and restores some hematological disorders induced by a 3-day HD A-L administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Julius Asiedu-Gyekye
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Ghana School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- Address for Correspondence: Isaac Julius Asiedu-Gyekye, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Ghana. E-mail:
| | - Charles Antwi-Boasiako
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Ghana
| | - Seth Oppong
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Ghana School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Stella Arthur
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Ghana School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph Edusei Sarkodie
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Taparia S, Khanna A. Effect of Procyanidin-rich Extract from Natural Cocoa Powder on Cellular Viability, Cell Cycle Progression, and Chemoresistance in Human Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma Cell Lines. Pharmacogn Mag 2016; 12:S109-15. [PMID: 27279694 PMCID: PMC4883066 DOI: 10.4103/0973-1296.182164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Over the last 400 years, cocoa and chocolate have been described as having potential medicinal value, being consumed as a beverage or eaten as food. Concentration–dependant, antiproliferation, and cytotoxic effects of some of their polyphenolic constituents have been demonstrated against various cancers. Such an effect remains to be demonstrated in ovarian cancer Objective: To investigate the effect of cocoa procyanidins against ovarian cancer in vitro using OAW42 and OVCAR3 cell lines. Materials and Methods: Cocoa procyanidins were extracted and enriched from non alkalized cocoa powder. The polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity were determined. Effect on cell viability was determined after the treatment with ≤1000 μg/mL cocoa procyanidin-rich extract on OAW42 and OVCAR3 and normal human dermal fibroblasts. Similarly, chemosensitization effect was determined by pretreating cancer cell lines with extract followed by doxorubicin hydrochloride treatment. The effect of treatment on cell cycle and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) expression was determined using flow cytometry. Results: The cocoa extract showed high polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity. Treatment with extract caused cytotoxicity and chemosensitization in OAW42 and OVCAR3 cell lines. Normal dermal fibroblasts showed an increase in cell viability post treatment with extract. Treatment with extract affected the cell cycle and an increasing percentage of cells in hypodiploid sub-G1/G0 phase was observed. Treatment of OVCAR3 with the extract caused reduction of P-gp expression. Conclusion: Cocoa procyanidins were found to be selectively cytotoxic against epithelial ovarian cancer, interfered with the normal cell cycle and sensitized cells to subsequent chemotherapeutic treatment. Chemosensitization was found to be associated with P-gp reduction in OVCAR3 cells. SUMMARY Among the naturally occurring flavonoids, procyanidins have been shown to be effective against cancers Non alkalized cocoa powder is one of the richest sources of procyanidins Cocoa procyanidin-rich extract (CPRE) caused cytotoxicity and chemosensitization in ovarian carcinoma cell lines OAW42 and OVCAR3 CPRE affected normal cell cycle progression CPRE also downregulated P-glycoprotein, which mediates chemoresistance in multidrug-resistant OVCAR3 cell line.
Abbreviations used: P-gp: P-glycoprotein, CPRE: Cocoa procyanidin rich extract, DMAC: 4-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde, DPPH: Diphenylpicrylhydrazyl, ABTS: 2,2’;-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), PI: Propidium iodide, FITC: Fluorescein isothiocyanate, MTT: 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, TLC: Thin layer chromatography, HPTLC: High-performance thin layer chromatography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Taparia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (Deemed-to-be) University, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Aparna Khanna
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (Deemed-to-be) University, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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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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Oracz J, Zyzelewicz D, Nebesny E. The content of polyphenolic compounds in cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.), depending on variety, growing region, and processing operations: a review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2016; 55:1176-92. [PMID: 24915346 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2012.686934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Polyphenols form the largest group of compounds among natural antioxidants, which largely affect the overall antioxidant and anti-free radical activity of cocoa beans. The qualitative and quantitative composition of individual fractions of polyphenolic compounds, even within one species, is very diverse and depends on many factors, mainly on the area of cocoa trees cultivation, bean maturity, climatic conditions during growth, and the harvest season and storage time after harvest. Thermal processing of cocoa beans and cocoa derivative products at relatively high temperatures may in addition to favorable physicochemical, microbiological, and organoleptic changes result in a decrease of polyphenols concentration. Technological processing of cocoa beans negatively affects the content of polyphenolic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Oracz
- a Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences , Lodz University of Technology , Lodz , Poland
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Daily chocolate consumption is inversely associated with insulin resistance and liver enzymes in the Observation of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Luxembourg study. Br J Nutr 2016; 115:1661-8. [DOI: 10.1017/s0007114516000702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThis study examined the association of chocolate consumption with insulin resistance and serum liver enzymes in a national sample of adults in Luxembourg. A random sample of 1153 individuals, aged 18–69 years, was recruited to participate in the cross-sectional Observation of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Luxembourg study. Chocolate consumption (g/d) was obtained from a semi-quantitative FFQ. Blood glucose and insulin levels were used for the homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Hepatic biomarkers such as serum γ-glutamyl-transpeptidase (γ-GT), serum aspartate transaminase and serum alanine transaminase (ALT) (mg/l) were assessed using standard laboratory assays. Chocolate consumers (81·8 %) were more likely to be younger, physically active, affluent people with higher education levels and fewer chronic co-morbidities. After excluding subjects taking antidiabetic medications, higher chocolate consumption was associated with lower HOMA-IR (β=−0·16, P=0·004), serum insulin levels (β=−0·16, P=0·003) and γ-GT (β=−0·12, P=0·009) and ALT (β=−0·09, P=0·004), after adjustment for age, sex, education, lifestyle and dietary confounding factors, including intakes of fruits and vegetables, alcohol, polyphenol-rich coffee and tea. This study reports an independent inverse relationship between daily chocolate consumption and levels of insulin, HOMA-IR and liver enzymes in adults, suggesting that chocolate consumption may improve liver enzymes and protect against insulin resistance, a well-established risk factor for cardiometabolic disorders. Further observational prospective research and well-designed randomised-controlled studies are needed to confirm this cross-sectional relationship and to comprehend the role and mechanisms that different types of chocolate may play in insulin resistance and cardiometabolic disorders.
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Kamei M, Nishimura H, Takahashi T, Takahashi N, Inokuchi K, Mato T, Takahashi K. Anti-influenza virus effects of cocoa. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2016; 96:1150-1158. [PMID: 25847473 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.7197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Revised: 03/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cocoa contains biologically active ingredients that have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, which includes an inhibitory effect on influenza virus infection. RESULTS A cocoa extract (CE) was prepared by treating defatted cocoa powder with boiling water. The extract demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of infection in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells infected with human influenza virus A (H1N1, H3N2), human influenza virus B and avian influenza viruses (H5N1, H5N9). CE inhibited viral adsorption to MDCK cells. Animal experiments showed that CE significantly improved survival in mice after intra-nasal administration of a lethal dose of influenza virus. In human intervention trials, participants were allocated to two groups, one in which the participants ingested cocoa for 3 weeks before and after vaccination against A(H1N1)pdm2009 influenza virus and another in which the participants did not ingest cocoa. Neutralizing antibody titers against A(H1N1)pdm2009 influenza virus increased significantly in both groups; however, the extent of the increase was not significantly different between the two groups. Although natural killer cell activity was also elevated in both groups, the increase was more substantial in the cocoa intake group. CONCLUSION Drinking cocoa activates natural immunity and enhances vaccination-induced immune response, providing stronger protection against influenza virus infection and disease onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Kamei
- Morinaga & Co., Ltd, 2-1-1 Shimosueyoshi, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-8504, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishimura
- Osaka Prefectural Institute of Public Health, 1-3-69 Nakamichi Higashinari-ku, Osaka, 537-0025, Japan
| | - Toshio Takahashi
- Morinaga & Co., Ltd, 2-1-1 Shimosueyoshi, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-8504, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Takahashi
- Morinaga & Co., Ltd, 2-1-1 Shimosueyoshi, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-8504, Japan
| | - Koichi Inokuchi
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, 1981 Kamoda, Kawagoe, Saitama, 350-8550, Japan
| | - Takashi Mato
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, 1981 Kamoda, Kawagoe, Saitama, 350-8550, Japan
| | - Kazuo Takahashi
- Osaka Prefectural Institute of Public Health, 1-3-69 Nakamichi Higashinari-ku, Osaka, 537-0025, Japan
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Preventive Effects of Cocoa and Cocoa Antioxidants in Colon Cancer. Diseases 2016; 4:diseases4010006. [PMID: 28933386 PMCID: PMC5456306 DOI: 10.3390/diseases4010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is one of the main causes of cancer-related mortality in the developed world. Carcinogenesis is a multistage process conventionally defined by the initiation, promotion and progression stages. Natural polyphenolic compounds can act as highly effective antioxidant and chemo-preventive agents able to interfere at the three stages of cancer. Cocoa has been demonstrated to counteract oxidative stress and to have a potential capacity to interact with multiple carcinogenic pathways involved in inflammation, proliferation and apoptosis of initiated and malignant cells. Therefore, restriction of oxidative stress and/or prevention or delayed progression of cancer stages by cocoa antioxidant compounds has gained interest as an effective approach in colorectal cancer prevention. In this review, we look over different in vitro and in vivo studies that have identified potential targets and mechanisms whereby cocoa and their flavonoids could interfere with colonic cancer. In addition, evidence from human studies is also illustrated.
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Basu A, Betts NM, Leyva MJ, Fu D, Aston CE, Lyons TJ. Acute Cocoa Supplementation Increases Postprandial HDL Cholesterol and Insulin in Obese Adults with Type 2 Diabetes after Consumption of a High-Fat Breakfast. J Nutr 2015; 145:2325-32. [PMID: 26338890 PMCID: PMC4580960 DOI: 10.3945/jn.115.215772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary cocoa is an important source of flavonoids and is associated with favorable cardiovascular disease effects, such as improvements in vascular function and lipid profiles, in nondiabetic adults. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with adverse effects on postprandial serum glucose, lipids, inflammation, and vascular function. OBJECTIVE We examined the hypothesis that cocoa reduces metabolic stress in obese T2D adults after a high-fat fast-food-style meal. METHODS Adults with T2D [n = 18; age (mean ± SE): 56 ± 3 y; BMI (in kg/m(2)): 35.3 ± 2.0; 14 women; 4 men] were randomly assigned to receive cocoa beverage (960 mg total polyphenols; 480 mg flavanols) or flavanol-free placebo (110 mg total polyphenols; <0.1 mg flavanols) with a high-fat fast-food-style breakfast [766 kcal, 50 g fat (59% energy)] in a crossover trial. After an overnight fast (10-12 h), participants consumed the breakfast with cocoa or placebo, and blood sample collection [glucose, insulin, lipids, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP)] and vascular measurements were conducted at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 6 h postprandially on each study day. Insulin resistance was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment. RESULTS Over the 6-h study, and specifically at 1 and 4 h, cocoa increased HDL cholesterol vs. placebo (overall Δ: 1.5 ± 0.8 mg/dL; P ≤ 0.01) but had no effect on total and LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and hsCRP. Cocoa increased serum insulin concentrations overall (Δ: 5.2 ± 3.2 mU/L; P < 0.05) and specifically at 4 h but had no overall effects on insulin resistance (except at 4 h, P < 0.05), systolic or diastolic blood pressure, or small artery elasticity. However, large artery elasticity was overall lower after cocoa vs. placebo (Δ: -1.6 ± 0.7 mL/mm Hg; P < 0.05), with the difference significant only at 2 h. CONCLUSION Acute cocoa supplementation showed no clear overall benefit in T2D patients after a high-fat fast-food-style meal challenge. Although HDL cholesterol and insulin remained higher throughout the 6-h postprandial period, an overall decrease in large artery elasticity was found after cocoa consumption. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01886989.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpita Basu
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK;
| | - Nancy M Betts
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
| | - Misti J Leyva
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health
| | - Dongxu Fu
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen’s University of Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | | | - Timothy J Lyons
- Section of Diabetes & Endocrinology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK; and,Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen’s University of Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
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Matsumoto C, Petrone AB, Sesso HD, Gaziano JM, Djoussé L. Chocolate consumption and risk of diabetes mellitus in the Physicians' Health Study. Am J Clin Nutr 2015; 101:362-7. [PMID: 25646334 PMCID: PMC4307206 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.114.092221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies reported beneficial effects of cocoa or chocolate on insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation, which are important risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). However, it is unclear whether chocolate consumption is associated with risk of DM. OBJECTIVE We tested the hypothesis that chocolate consumption is inversely associated with incident DM in the Physicians' Health Study (PHS). DESIGN We prospectively analyzed data on 18,235 PHS participants who were free of DM at baseline (1997-2001). Chocolate consumption was obtained from a baseline food-frequency questionnaire. Incident DM was ascertained via annual follow-up questionnaires and validated in a subsample by a review of medical records. We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate HRs and 95% CIs of DM. RESULTS The mean (±SD) age at baseline was 66.3 ± 9.2 y. During a mean follow up of 9.2 y, 1123 men (6.2%) developed DM. For self-reported chocolate consumption of none, 1-3 servings/mo, 1 serving/wk, and ≥2 servings/wk, multivariable-adjusted HRs (95% CIs) of DM adjusted for lifestyle, clinical, and dietary risk factors including total energy intake were 1.00 (referent), 0.93 (0.79, 1.09), 0.86 (0.72, 1.04), and 0.83 (0.69, 0.99), respectively (P-trend = 0.047). In secondary analyses, the inverse association of chocolate consumption and risk of DM was slightly stronger in subjects without a history of cardiovascular disease or heart failure (P-trend = 0.023). In addition, both age and BMI modified the chocolate-DM relation (P < 0.05 each). CONCLUSION Our data support an inverse relation of chocolate intake with incident DM, which appears only to apply in younger and normal-body weight men after controlling for comprehensive life styles including total energy consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chisa Matsumoto
- From the Division of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan (CM); the Divisions of Aging (ABP, HDS, JMG, and LD) and Preventive Medicine (HDS and JMG), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; the Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (HDS, JMG, and LD); and the Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Boston, MA (JMG and LD)
| | - Andrew B Petrone
- From the Division of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan (CM); the Divisions of Aging (ABP, HDS, JMG, and LD) and Preventive Medicine (HDS and JMG), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; the Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (HDS, JMG, and LD); and the Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Boston, MA (JMG and LD)
| | - Howard D Sesso
- From the Division of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan (CM); the Divisions of Aging (ABP, HDS, JMG, and LD) and Preventive Medicine (HDS and JMG), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; the Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (HDS, JMG, and LD); and the Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Boston, MA (JMG and LD)
| | - J Michael Gaziano
- From the Division of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan (CM); the Divisions of Aging (ABP, HDS, JMG, and LD) and Preventive Medicine (HDS and JMG), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; the Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (HDS, JMG, and LD); and the Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Boston, MA (JMG and LD)
| | - Luc Djoussé
- From the Division of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan (CM); the Divisions of Aging (ABP, HDS, JMG, and LD) and Preventive Medicine (HDS and JMG), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; the Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (HDS, JMG, and LD); and the Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Boston, MA (JMG and LD)
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Lesser MNR, Keen CL, Lanoue L. Reproductive and developmental outcomes, and influence on maternal and offspring tissue mineral concentrations, of (-)-epicatechin, (+)-catechin, and rutin ingestion prior to, and during pregnancy and lactation in C57BL/6J mice. Toxicol Rep 2015; 2:443-449. [PMID: 28962380 PMCID: PMC5598508 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2015.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Revised: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal food intake, body weights, and tissue weights were not affected by the dietary treatments. RU2 dams had alterations in liver zinc, copper, and calcium compared to the other treatment groups. Fetal and placental weights, and number of implantation sites and resorption sites per litter were similar across treatment groups. Offspring food intake, body weight, litter size, survival, sex, and skeletal development were similar among groups. EC1 and EC2 offspring had alterations in liver copper and iron (EC2 only). RU1 and RU2 had alterations in liver calcium.
Maternal nutrition can have a significant effect on developmental processes during pregnancy and lactation. While certain flavonoids have been postulated to be beneficial for health, little is known about the effects of ingestion during pregnancy and lactation on the mother and progeny. We report on the effects of maternal consumption of high levels of certain flavonoids on reproductive and developmental outcomes in a mouse model. C57BL/6J female mice were fed a control diet (CT), the CT diet supplemented with 1% or 2% of a mix of epicatechin and catechin (EC1, EC2), or rutin (RU1, RU2) prior to, during pregnancy, and lactation. A subset of dams was killed on gestation day (GD) 18.5 to evaluate fetal outcomes and the remainder was allowed to deliver to evaluate offspring. Maternal food intake, body and tissue weight did not differ among groups. The number of resorptions, implantations, litter size, postnatal survival, body weight, and skeletal development were also similar. Alterations in maternal and offspring liver mineral concentrations were observed. The current results indicate that consumption of high amounts of epicatechin, catechin, and rutin during gestation and lactation is not associated with any marked developmental effects, although changes in liver mineral concentrations were noted.
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Key Words
- (+)-Catechin
- (+)-Catechin hydrate (PubChem CID: 24278298)
- (−)-Epicatechin
- (−)-Epicatechin (PubChem CID: 24894431)
- ANOVA, analysis of variance
- CT, control diet
- Development
- EC1, control diet supplemented with 1% mix of (−)-epicatechin and (+)-catechin
- EC2, control diet supplemented with 1% mix of (−)-epicatechin and (+)-catechin
- EGCG, epigallo-catechin-gallate
- Flavonoids (or flavanols or flavonols)
- GD, gestation day
- GTC-H, heat sterilized green tea catechins
- GTE, green tea extract
- PND, postnatal day
- Pregnancy
- RU1, control diet supplemented with 1% rutin
- RU2, control diet supplemented with 2% rutin
- Rutin
- Rutin-hydrate (PubChem CID: 24899379)
- SEM, standard error of the means
- TBHQ, tertiary butylhydroquinone
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary N R Lesser
- Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, 5700 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Oakland, CA 94609, United States.,Department of Nutritional Sciences & Toxicology, University of California, Berkeley, 119 Morgan Hall, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
| | - Carl L Keen
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Louise Lanoue
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, United States
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Short term effects of cocoa consumption on blood pressure. W INDIAN MED J 2014; 63:312-7. [PMID: 25429467 DOI: 10.7727/wimj.2013.273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension, defined as diastolic pressure ≥ 90 mmHg and systolic pressure ≥ 140 mmHg, is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among black populations globally. Several studies have shown that prolonged consumption of cocoa or cocoa containing products leads to decreased blood pressure (BP) in hypertensives. In this study, we investigated the flavonoid content of the top selling cocoa/cocoa based products in Trinidad and Tobago and attempted to determine if consumption of cocoa had any immediate impact on blood pressure levels. The flavonoid content of three 100% cocoa powder products and four cocoa based formulas was measured using a modified Folin-Ciocalteu procedure. The brand with the highest flavonoid content, 372 gallic acid equivalents, was selected to evaluate the short-term impact of cocoa consumption on blood pressure. Thirty-six participants comprising nineteen hypertensives and seventeen persons with normal blood pressure had their blood pressure recorded on three separate days using ambulatory blood pressure monitors; the blood pressure was recorded every half hour for eight hours. On the first day, the participants received no intervention but on the second and third days, they received either the intervention (5 g cocoa in 125 ml water) or a placebo, in any order. Statistical analysis conducted using t-test statistic and a 95% confidence interval revealed that whether participants regularly took antihypertensive medication or not, a single intervention of cocoa induced decreases in both the diastolic and systolic BPs that were significant (p = 0.0001). Mean decreases of between 8 mmHg and 18 mmHg were observed.
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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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Zielinsky P, Busato S. Prenatal effects of maternal consumption of polyphenol-rich foods in late pregnancy upon fetal ductus arteriosus. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 99:256-74. [PMID: 24339037 PMCID: PMC4065350 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.21051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fetal circulation has characteristic features, being morphologically and functionally different from extrauterine circulation. The ductus arteriosus plays a fundamental role in directing the blood flow to fetal inferior body parts. Basically, the ductus arteriosus directs 80-85% of the right ventricular output arising from the superior vena cava, coronary sinus, and a small part from the inferior vena cava to descending aorta. Its histological structure is made up predominantly by a thick muscular layer, differently from the aorta and the pulmonary artery, which increases with gestational age. The fibers have a circumferential orientation, especially at the external layers, facilitating and making effective ductal constriction. These factors may generate lumen alterations which may cause fetal and neonatal complications, such as heart failure, hydrops, neonatal pulmonary hypertension, and even death. Classically, maternal administration of indomethacin and/or other antiinflammatory drugs interfere in prostaglandins metabolism, causing ductal constriction. However, many cases of fetal ductal constriction, as well as of persistent neonatal pulmonary artery hypertension, remain without an established etiology, being referred as "idiopathic." In recent years, a growing body of evidence has shown that herbs, fruits, nuts, and a wide diversity of substances commonly used in daily diets have definitive effects upon the metabolic pathway of inflammation, with consequent inhibition of prostaglandins synthesis. This antiinflammatory action, especially of polyphenols, when ingested during the third trimester of pregnancy, may influence the dynamics of fetal ductus arteriosus flow. The goal of this review is to present these new observations and findings, which may influence dietary orientation during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Zielinsky
- are from the Fetal Cardiology Unit, Institute of Cardiology, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Kim J, Kim J, Shim J, Lee CY, Lee KW, Lee HJ. Cocoa Phytochemicals: Recent Advances in Molecular Mechanisms on Health. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2014; 54:1458-72. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2011.641041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Carrieri MP, Lions C, Sogni P, Winnock M, Roux P, Mora M, Bonnard P, Salmon D, Dabis F, Spire B. Association between elevated coffee consumption and daily chocolate intake with normal liver enzymes in HIV-HCV infected individuals: results from the ANRS CO13 HEPAVIH cohort study. J Hepatol 2014; 60:46-53. [PMID: 23978720 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2013] [Revised: 08/06/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS We used longitudinal data from the ANRS CO13 HEPAVIH cohort study of HIV-HCV co-infected individuals to investigate whether polyphenol rich food intake through coffee and/or daily chocolate consumption could play a role in reducing liver enzymes levels. METHODS Longitudinal data collection included self-administered questionnaires and medical data (aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) liver enzymes). Two analyses were performed to assess the association between coffee (≥3 cups a day) and daily chocolate intake and abnormal values of AST and ALT (AST or ALT >2.5 × upper normal limit (UNL)) (N=990) over time, after adjustment for known correlates. Logistic regression models based on generalized estimating equations were used to take into account the correlations between repeated measures and estimate adjusted odds ratio. RESULTS After adjustment, patients reporting elevated coffee consumption and daily chocolate intake were less likely to present abnormal ALT (OR=0.65; p=0.04 and OR=0.57; p=0.04, for coffee and chocolate respectively), while only patients reporting elevated coffee consumption were less likely to have abnormal AST values (p=0.05). Nevertheless, the combined indicator of coffee and chocolate intake was most significantly associated with approximately 40% reduced risk of abnormal liver enzymes (p=0.003 for AST; p=0.002 for ALT). CONCLUSIONS Elevated coffee consumption and daily chocolate intake appear to be associated with reduced levels of liver enzymes in HIV-HCV co-infected patients. Further experimental and observational research is needed to better understand the role that polyphenol intake or supplementation can play on liver disease and liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Patrizia Carrieri
- INSERM, U912 (SESSTIM), Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, UMR-S912, Marseille, France; ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France.
| | - Caroline Lions
- INSERM, U912 (SESSTIM), Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, UMR-S912, Marseille, France; ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Sogni
- Institut Cochin, Université Paris-Descartes, INSERM U567-CNRS (UMR 8104), Paris, France; APHP, Hôpital Cochin, Service d'Hépatologie, Paris, France
| | - Maria Winnock
- INSERM, U897 and ISPED, Université Victor Segalen, Bordeaux, France
| | - Perrine Roux
- INSERM, U912 (SESSTIM), Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, UMR-S912, Marseille, France; ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Marion Mora
- INSERM, U912 (SESSTIM), Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, UMR-S912, Marseille, France; ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Bonnard
- Maladies Infectieuses, Hôpital Tenon, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UPMC Paris Liver Center, Paris, France
| | - Dominique Salmon
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Cochin, AP-HP, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - François Dabis
- INSERM, U897 and ISPED, Université Victor Segalen, Bordeaux, France
| | - Bruno Spire
- INSERM, U912 (SESSTIM), Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, UMR-S912, Marseille, France; ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
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Araujo QRD, Gattward JN, Almoosawi S, Parada Costa Silva MDGC, Dantas PADS, Araujo Júnior QRD. Cocoa and Human Health: From Head to Foot—A Review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2013; 56:1-12. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2012.657921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Calderón-Garcidueñas L, Mora-Tiscareño A, Franco-Lira M, Cross JV, Engle R, Aragón-Flores M, Gómez-Garza G, Jewells V, Medina-Cortina H, Solorio E, Chao CK, Zhu H, Mukherjee PS, Ferreira-Azevedo L, Torres-Jardón R, D'Angiulli A. Flavonol-rich dark cocoa significantly decreases plasma endothelin-1 and improves cognition in urban children. Front Pharmacol 2013; 4:104. [PMID: 23986703 PMCID: PMC3749371 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Air pollution exposures are linked to systemic inflammation, cardiovascular and respiratory morbidity and mortality, neuroinflammation and neuropathology in young urbanites. In particular, most Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA) children exhibit subtle cognitive deficits, and neuropathology studies show 40% of them exhibiting frontal tau hyperphosphorylation and 51% amyloid-β diffuse plaques (compared to 0% in low pollution control children). We assessed whether a short cocoa intervention can be effective in decreasing plasma endothelin 1 (ET-1) and/or inflammatory mediators in MCMA children. Thirty gram of dark cocoa with 680 mg of total flavonols were given daily for 10.11 ± 3.4 days (range 9–24 days) to 18 children (10.55 years, SD = 1.45; 11F/7M). Key metabolite ratios in frontal white matter and in hippocampus pre and during cocoa intervention were quantified by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. ET-1 significantly decreased after cocoa treatment (p = 0.0002). Fifteen children (83%) showed a marginally significant individual improvement in one or both of the applied simple short memory tasks. Endothelial dysfunction is a key feature of exposure to particulate matter (PM) and decreased endothelin-1 bioavailability is likely useful for brain function in the context of air pollution. Our findings suggest that cocoa interventions may be critical for early implementation of neuroprotection of highly exposed urban children. Multi-domain nutraceutical interventions could limit the risk for endothelial dysfunction, cerebral hypoperfusion, neuroinflammation, cognitive deficits, structural volumetric detrimental brain effects, and the early development of the neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Calderón-Garcidueñas
- Biomedical Sciences, The Center for Structural and Functional Neurosciences, The University of Montana Missoula, MT, USA ; Hospital Central Militar, Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional Mexico City, Mexico
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Regular consumption of a cocoa product improves the cardiometabolic profile in healthy and moderately hypercholesterolaemic adults. Br J Nutr 2013; 111:122-34. [PMID: 23823716 DOI: 10.1017/s000711451300202x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Cocoa products present great health potential due to their high content of polyphenols, mainly of flavanols. However, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other health effects of regularly consuming cocoa products seem to depend on the intake and health status of the consumer, etc. and need to be further clarified. A randomised, controlled, cross-over, free-living study was carried out in healthy (n 24) and moderately hypercholesterolaemic (>2000 mg/l, n 20) subjects to assess the influence of regularly consuming (4 weeks) two servings (15 g each) of a cocoa product rich in fibre (containing 33·9 % of total dietary fibre (TDF) and 13·9 mg/g of soluble polyphenols) in milk v. consuming only milk (control) on (1) serum lipid and lipoprotein profile, (2) serum malondialdehyde levels, carbonyl groups, ferric reducing/antioxidant power, oxygen radical absorbance capacity and free radical-scavenging capacity, (3) IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and vascular and intracellular cell adhesion molecule levels, and (4) systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate. Throughout the study, the diet and physical activity of the volunteers, as well as any possible changes in weight or other anthropometric parameters, were also evaluated. The intake of TDF increased (P< 0·001) to the recommended levels. Serum HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were increased (P< 0·001), whereas glucose (P= 0·029), IL-1β (P= 0·001) and IL-10 (P= 0·001) levels were decreased. The rest of the studied cardiovascular parameters, as well as the anthropometric ones, remained similar. In conclusion, regularly consuming a cocoa product with milk improves cardiovascular health by increasing HDL-C levels and inducing hypoglycaemic and anti-inflammatory effects in healthy and hypercholesterolaemic individuals without causing weight gain.
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Potential for preventive effects of cocoa and cocoa polyphenols in cancer. Food Chem Toxicol 2013; 56:336-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2012] [Revised: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Gu Y, Lambert JD. Modulation of metabolic syndrome-related inflammation by cocoa. Mol Nutr Food Res 2013; 57:948-61. [PMID: 23637048 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201200837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Revised: 02/28/2013] [Accepted: 03/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L., Sterculiaceae) is a widely consumed food ingredient. Although typically found in high-fat, high-sugar foods such as chocolate, cocoa is rich in polyphenols, methylxanthines, and monounsaturated fatty acids. There is increasing evidence that moderate consumption of cocoa and cocoa-containing foods may have beneficial effects on the health including vasodilatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Polyphenols in cocoa, including monomeric flavanols, as well as polymeric proanthocyanidins, may play a role in these observed beneficial effects. Chronic inflammation represents a potential mechanistic link between obesity and its related pathologies: insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, which comprise the metabolic syndrome. In the present review, we discuss the available data regarding the modulation of metabolic syndrome-related inflammation by cocoa and cocoa-derived compounds. We emphasize studies using laboratory animals or human subjects since such studies often represent the strongest available evidence for biological effects. In vitro studies are included to provide some mechanistic context, but are critically interpreted. Although the available data seem to support the anti-inflammatory effects of cocoa, further studies are needed with regard to the dose-response relationship as well as the underlying mechanisms of action. We hope this review will stimulate further research on cocoa and its anti-inflammatory activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeyi Gu
- Center of Excellence for Plant and Mushroom Foods For Health, The Department of Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Shadwell N, Villalobos F, Kern M, Hong MY. Blooming reduces the antioxidant capacity of dark chocolate in rats without lowering its capacity to improve lipid profiles. Nutr Res 2013; 33:414-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2013.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2012] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Vázquez-Agell M, Urpi-Sarda M, Sacanella E, Camino-López S, Chiva-Blanch G, Llorente-Cortés V, Tobias E, Roura E, Andres-Lacueva C, Lamuela-Raventós RM, Badimon L, Estruch R. Cocoa consumption reduces NF-κB activation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in humans. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2013; 23:257-263. [PMID: 21824756 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2011.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2010] [Revised: 03/18/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between high-polyphenol intake and reduced incidence of atherosclerosis. The healthy effects of cocoa-polyphenols may be due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, although the exact mechanisms are unknown and depend on the matrix in which cocoa-polyphenols are delivered. Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) is a key molecule in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis involved in the regulation of adhesion molecules(AM) and cytokine expression and its activation is the first step in triggering the inflammatory process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of acute cocoa consumption in different matrices related to the bioavailability of cocoa-polyphenols in NF-κB activation and the expression of AM. METHODS AND RESULTS Eighteen healthy volunteers randomly received 3 interventions: 40g of cocoa powder with milk (CM), with water (CW), and only milk (M). NF-κB activation in leukocytes and AM (sICAM, sVCAM, E-selectin) were measured before and 6h after each intervention. Consumption of CW significantly decreased NF-κB activation compared to baseline and to CM (P < 0.05, both), did not change after CM intervention, and significantly increased after M intervention (P = 0.014). sICAM-1 concentrations significantly decreased after 6h of CW and CM interventions (P ≤ 0.026; both) and E-selectin only decreased after CW intervention (P = 0.028). No significant changes were observed in sVCAM-1 concentrations. CONCLUSIONS The anti-inflammatory effect of cocoa intake may depend on the bioavailability of bioactive compounds and may be mediated at least in part by the modulation of NF-κB activation and downstream molecules reinforcing the link between cocoa intake and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Vázquez-Agell
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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Quiñones M, Miguel M, Aleixandre A. Beneficial effects of polyphenols on cardiovascular disease. Pharmacol Res 2012; 68:125-31. [PMID: 23174266 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2012.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Revised: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, numerous studies have demonstrated the health benefits of polyphenols, and special attention has been paid to their beneficial effects against cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the world today. Polyphenols present vasodilator effects and are able to improve lipid profiles and attenuate the oxidation of low density lipoproteins. In addition, they present clear anti-inflammatory effects and can modulate apoptotic processes in the vascular endothelium. It has been suggested that most of these effects are a consequence of the antioxidant properties of polyphenols, but this idea is not completely accepted, and many other mechanisms have been proposed recently to explain the health effects of these compounds. In fact, different signaling pathways have been linked to polyphenols. This review brings together some recent studies which establish the beneficial properties of polyphenols for cardiovascular disease and analyzes the mechanisms involved in these properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mar Quiñones
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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43
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Wu X, Schauss AG. Mitigation of inflammation with foods. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2012; 60:6703-6717. [PMID: 22468569 DOI: 10.1021/jf3007008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Constant overproduction of pro-inflammatory molecules leads to chronic inflammation. Unlike acute inflammation, which is essential for healing, chronic inflammation can delay healing and, if left unchecked, contribute to a host of diseases. There is growing evidence that some dietary factors can play important roles in maintaining health and even reversing the progression of chronic diseases, with anti-inflammatory effects as important underlying mechanism. Such findings add to the body of evidence that certain dietary components, including polyphenols and other types of compounds, found in various dietary factors including fruits, berries, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and foods of marine origin, can play an important role in attenuating and mitigating chronic pro-inflammatory processes associated with chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianli Wu
- USDA Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center , Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 15 Children's Way, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202, United States
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44
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Perfecting the Plate: Adding Cardioprotective Compounds to the Diet. J Am Coll Surg 2012; 214:97-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2011.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2011] [Revised: 09/15/2011] [Accepted: 09/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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45
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Katz DL, Doughty K, Ali A. Cocoa and chocolate in human health and disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2011; 15:2779-811. [PMID: 21470061 PMCID: PMC4696435 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2010.3697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2010] [Revised: 04/05/2011] [Accepted: 04/06/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Cocoa contains more phenolic antioxidants than most foods. Flavonoids, including catechin, epicatechin, and procyanidins predominate in antioxidant activity. The tricyclic structure of the flavonoids determines antioxidant effects that scavenge reactive oxygen species, chelate Fe2+ and Cu+, inhibit enzymes, and upregulate antioxidant defenses. The epicatechin content of cocoa is primarily responsible for its favorable impact on vascular endothelium via its effect on both acute and chronic upregulation of nitric oxide production. Other cardiovascular effects are mediated through anti-inflammatory effects of cocoa polyphenols, and modulated through the activity of NF-κB. Antioxidant effects of cocoa may directly influence insulin resistance and, in turn, reduce risk for diabetes. Further, cocoa consumption may stimulate changes in redox-sensitive signaling pathways involved in gene expression and the immune response. Cocoa can protect nerves from injury and inflammation, protect the skin from oxidative damage from UV radiation in topical preparations, and have beneficial effects on satiety, cognitive function, and mood. As cocoa is predominantly consumed as energy-dense chocolate, potential detrimental effects of overconsumption exist, including increased risk of weight gain. Overall, research to date suggests that the benefits of moderate cocoa or dark chocolate consumption likely outweigh the risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Katz
- Yale University Prevention Research Center, Griffin Hospital, Derby, Connecticut 06418, USA.
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46
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Khawaja O, Gaziano JM, Djoussé L. Chocolate and Coronary Heart Disease: A Systematic Review. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2011; 13:447-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s11883-011-0203-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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47
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Crozier SJ, Preston AG, Hurst JW, Payne MJ, Mann J, Hainly L, Miller DL. Cacao seeds are a "Super Fruit": A comparative analysis of various fruit powders and products. Chem Cent J 2011; 5:5. [PMID: 21299842 PMCID: PMC3038885 DOI: 10.1186/1752-153x-5-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2010] [Accepted: 02/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Numerous popular media sources have developed lists of "Super Foods" and, more recently, "Super Fruits". Such distinctions often are based on the antioxidant capacity and content of naturally occurring compounds such as polyphenols within those whole fruits or juices of the fruit which may be linked to potential health benefits. Cocoa powder and chocolate are made from an extract of the seeds of the fruit of the Theobroma cacao tree. In this study, we compared cocoa powder and cocoa products to powders and juices derived from fruits commonly considered "Super Fruits". Results Various fruit powders and retail fruit products were obtained and analyzed for antioxidant capacity (ORAC (μM TE/g)), total polyphenol content (TP (mg/g)), and total flavanol content (TF (mg/g)). Among the various powders that were tested, cocoa powder was the most concentrated source of ORAC and TF. Similarly, dark chocolate was a significantly more concentrated source of ORAC and TF than the fruit juices. Conclusions Cocoa powder and dark chocolate had equivalent or significantly greater ORAC, TP, and TF values compared to the other fruit powders and juices tested, respectively. Cacao seeds thus provide nutritive value beyond that derived from their macronutrient composition and appear to meet the popular media's definition of a "Super Fruit".
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Crozier
- The Hershey Center for Health & Nutrition, 1025 Reese Avenue, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
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48
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Ried K, Sullivan T, Fakler P, Frank OR, Stocks NP. Does chocolate reduce blood pressure? A meta-analysis. BMC Med 2010; 8:39. [PMID: 20584271 PMCID: PMC2908554 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-8-39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2010] [Accepted: 06/28/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dark chocolate and flavanol-rich cocoa products have attracted interest as an alternative treatment option for hypertension, a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Previous meta-analyses concluded that cocoa-rich foods may reduce blood pressure. Recently, several additional trials have been conducted with conflicting results. Our study summarises current evidence on the effect of flavanol-rich cocoa products on blood pressure in hypertensive and normotensive individuals. METHODS We searched Medline, Cochrane and international trial registries between 1955 and 2009 for randomised controlled trials investigating the effect of cocoa as food or drink compared with placebo on systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP) for a minimum duration of 2 weeks. We conducted random effects meta-analysis of all studies fitting the inclusion criteria, as well as subgroup analysis by baseline blood pressure (hypertensive/normotensive). Meta-regression analysis explored the association between type of treatment, dosage, duration or baseline blood pressure and blood pressure outcome. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS Fifteen trial arms of 13 assessed studies met the inclusion criteria. Pooled meta-analysis of all trials revealed a significant blood pressure-reducing effect of cocoa-chocolate compared with control (mean BP change +/- SE: SBP: -3.2 +/- 1.9 mmHg, P = 0.001; DBP: -2.0 +/- 1.3 mmHg, P = 0.003). However, subgroup meta-analysis was significant only for the hypertensive or prehypertensive subgroups (SBP: -5.0 +/- 3.0 mmHg; P = 0.0009; DBP: -2.7 +/- 2.2 mm Hg, P = 0.01), while BP was not significantly reduced in the normotensive subgroups (SBP: -1.6 +/- 2.3 mmHg, P = 0.17; DBP: -1.3 +/- 1.6 mmHg, P = 0.12). Nine trials used chocolate containing 50% to 70% cocoa compared with white chocolate or other cocoa-free controls, while six trials compared high- with low-flavanol cocoa products. Daily flavanol dosages ranged from 30 mg to 1000 mg in the active treatment groups, and interventions ran for 2 to 18 weeks. Meta-regression analysis found study design and type of control to be borderline significant but possibly indirect predictors for blood pressure outcome. CONCLUSION Our meta-analysis suggests that dark chocolate is superior to placebo in reducing systolic hypertension or diastolic prehypertension. Flavanol-rich chocolate did not significantly reduce mean blood pressure below 140 mmHg systolic or 80 mmHg diastolic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Ried
- Discipline of General Practice, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia.
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Abstract
A significant body of evidence demonstrates that diets rich in fruits and vegetables promote health and attenuate, or delay, the onset of various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and several other age-related degenerative disorders. The concept that moderate chocolate consumption could be part of a healthy diet has gained acceptance in past years based on the health benefits ascribed to selected cocoa components. Specifically, cocoa as a plant and chocolate as food contain a series of chemicals that can interact with cell and tissue components, providing protection against the development and amelioration of pathological conditions. The most relevant effects of cocoa and chocolate have been related to cardiovascular disease. The mechanisms behind these effects are still under investigation. However, the maintenance or restoration of vascular NO production and bioavailability and the antioxidant effects are the mechanisms most consistently supported by experimental data. This review will summarize the most recent research on the cardiovascular effects of cocoa flavanols and related compounds.
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50
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Egger G, Dixon J. Inflammatory effects of nutritional stimuli: further support for the need for a big picture approach to tackling obesity and chronic disease. Obes Rev 2010; 11:137-49. [PMID: 19656309 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-789x.2009.00644.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of a form of low-grade systemic inflammation (called 'metaflammation'), and the close evolutionary link between the immune and metabolic systems, poses questions about the supposed antigens (inducers) of such an immune reaction. Initially, this was thought to be mediated through obesity. However, we have identified a number of lifestyle or environmentally related inducers that may cause metaflammation, even in the absence of obesity. In this paper, the third of a series linking obesity with broad environmental and evolutionary factors, we identify nutritional stimuli with evidence of an involvement in metaflammation. From this we propose that components of certain foods and beverages with which humans have not evolved, are more often the inducers of an inflammatory effect in the body than those with which humans have become more familiar, and to which a neutral, or anti-inflammatory response may be expected to have developed. The implications of such a finding are considered in relation to broader aspects of the environment, economic growth, policy change and current global financial issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Egger
- Health and Applied Sciences, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia.
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