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Arisi TOP, da Silva DS, Stein E, Weschenfelder C, de Oliveira PC, Marcadenti A, Lehnen AM, Waclawovsky G. Effects of cocoa consumption on cardiometabolic risk markers: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0309824. [PMID: 39250491 PMCID: PMC11383207 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiometabolic diseases cover a spectrum of interrelated conditions linked to metabolic dysfunctions and/or cardiovascular disorders, including systemic arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and obesity. Cocoa is a rich source of dietary polyphenols and has been associated with cardiovascular health benefits. However, beneficial effects of cocoa consumption and appropriate quantities in decreasing cardiometabolic risk factors have yet to be established. Therefore, we will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the effects of cocoa consumption on cardiometabolic risk markers (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, waist circumference, abdominal circumference, body mass index, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure) in adults with or without established cardiovascular risk factors. METHODS Our review will include all randomized controlled trials published in English, Portuguese and Spanish with no date of publication restrictions evaluating the effects of cocoa consumption on cardiometabolic risk markers selected from the databases MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS, Cochrane, EMBASE, Web of Science and SciELO, and gray literature. Eligible studies must involve adults (age ≥18y), and the consumption of cocoa or dark chocolate (≥ 70% cocoa), include a control group and evaluate blood pressure, anthropometric measurements, and lipid or glycemic profiles. We will use risk-of-bias 2 (RoB2) tool to assess the risk of bias and the GRADE system to assess the strength of evidence. Statistical analyses will be performed using RStudio for Windows and R package meta. DISCUSSION This meta-analysis will summarize existing evidence on the effects of cocoa consumption on cardiometabolic health in adults. Better understanding the effects of cocoa consumption on anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and lipid and glycemic profiles can provide valuable insights for health professionals to improve dietary recommendations regarding appropriate quantities. TRIAL REGISTRATION Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO CRD42023484490.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tainah Ortiz Pinto Arisi
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Diego Silveira da Silva
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Elana Stein
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Camila Weschenfelder
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Aline Marcadenti
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Hcor Research Institute (IP-Hcor), Hcor, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo (FSP-USP), São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Alexandre Machado Lehnen
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Faculdade Ulbra-Medicina-Gravataí, Gravataí, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Waclawovsky
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Arisi TOP, da Silva DS, Stein E, Weschenfelder C, de Oliveira PC, Marcadenti A, Lehnen AM, Waclawovsky G. Effects of Cocoa Consumption on Cardiometabolic Risk Markers: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients 2024; 16:1919. [PMID: 38931273 PMCID: PMC11206597 DOI: 10.3390/nu16121919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the effect of dietary intake of cocoa on anthropometric measurements, lipid and glycemic profiles, and blood pressure levels in adults, with and without comorbidities. METHODS The databases used were MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane, LILACS, and SciELO. The eligible studies were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) involving adults undergoing cocoa consumption (cocoa extract or ≥70% cocoa dark chocolate) for ≥4 weeks that evaluated at least one of the following markers: body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist/abdominal circumference, total cholesterol, LDL-c, triglycerides, HDL-c, blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP). RESULTS Thirty-one studies were included, totaling 1986 participants. Cocoa consumption showed no effects on body weight, BMI, waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL-c and HbA1c. Yet, there was a reduction in total cholesterol (-8.35 mg/dL, 95% CI -14.01; -2.69 mg/dL), LDL-c (-9.47 mg/dL, 95% CI -13.75; -5.20 mg/dL), fasting blood glucose (-4.91 mg/dL, 95% CI -8.29; -1.52 mg/dL), SBP (-2.52 mmHg, 95% CI -4.17; -0.88 mmHg), and DBP (-1.58 mmHg, 95% CI -2.54; -0.62 mmHg). CONCLUSIONS The consumption of cocoa showed protective effects on major cardiometabolic risk markers that have a clinical impact in terms of cardiovascular risk reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tainah O. P. Arisi
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre 90620-001, RS, Brazil; (T.O.P.A.); (D.S.d.S.); (E.S.); (C.W.); (P.C.d.O.); (A.M.); (G.W.)
| | - Diego Silveira da Silva
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre 90620-001, RS, Brazil; (T.O.P.A.); (D.S.d.S.); (E.S.); (C.W.); (P.C.d.O.); (A.M.); (G.W.)
| | - Elana Stein
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre 90620-001, RS, Brazil; (T.O.P.A.); (D.S.d.S.); (E.S.); (C.W.); (P.C.d.O.); (A.M.); (G.W.)
| | - Camila Weschenfelder
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre 90620-001, RS, Brazil; (T.O.P.A.); (D.S.d.S.); (E.S.); (C.W.); (P.C.d.O.); (A.M.); (G.W.)
| | - Patrícia Caetano de Oliveira
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre 90620-001, RS, Brazil; (T.O.P.A.); (D.S.d.S.); (E.S.); (C.W.); (P.C.d.O.); (A.M.); (G.W.)
| | - Aline Marcadenti
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre 90620-001, RS, Brazil; (T.O.P.A.); (D.S.d.S.); (E.S.); (C.W.); (P.C.d.O.); (A.M.); (G.W.)
- Instituto de Pesquisa Hcor (IP-Hcor), Hcor, São Paulo 04005-909, SP, Brazil
- Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo (FSP-USP), São Paulo 01246-904, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Machado Lehnen
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre 90620-001, RS, Brazil; (T.O.P.A.); (D.S.d.S.); (E.S.); (C.W.); (P.C.d.O.); (A.M.); (G.W.)
| | - Gustavo Waclawovsky
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre 90620-001, RS, Brazil; (T.O.P.A.); (D.S.d.S.); (E.S.); (C.W.); (P.C.d.O.); (A.M.); (G.W.)
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3
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García-Cordero J, Martinez A, Blanco-Valverde C, Pino A, Puertas-Martín V, San Román R, de Pascual-Teresa S. Regular Consumption of Cocoa and Red Berries as a Strategy to Improve Cardiovascular Biomarkers via Modulation of Microbiota Metabolism in Healthy Aging Adults. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15102299. [PMID: 37242181 DOI: 10.3390/nu15102299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins on cardiovascular biomarkers, such as homocysteine, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), nitric oxide (NO), flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), blood pressure and lipid profile. Additionally, we aimed to ascertain their possible interactions with microbiota related metabolites, such as secondary bile acids (SBA), short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). A randomized, parallel-group study, single-blind for the research team, was performed on 60 healthy volunteers between the ages of 45 and 85, who consumed 2.5 g/day of cocoa powder (9.59 mg/day of total flavanols), 5 g/day of a red berry mixture (13.9 mg/day of total anthocyanins) or 7.5 g/day of a combination of both for 12 weeks. The group that had consumed cocoa showed a significant reduction in TMAO (p = 0.03) and uric acid (p = 0.01) levels in serum, accompanied by an increase in FMD values (p = 0.03) and total polyphenols. corrected by creatinine (p = 0.03) after the intervention. These latter values negatively correlated with the TMAO concentration (R = -0.57, p = 0.02). Additionally, we observed an increase in carbohydrate fermentation in the groups that had consumed cocoa (p = 0.04) and red berries (p = 0.04) between the beginning and the end of the intervention. This increase in carbohydrate fermentation was correlated with lower levels of TC/HDL ratio (p = 0.01), systolic (p = 0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.01). In conclusion, our study showed a positive modulation of microbiota metabolism after a regular intake of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins that led to an improvement in cardiovascular function, especially in the group that consumed cocoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín García-Cordero
- Departamento de Metabolismo y Nutrición, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), C/José Antonio Novais, 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alba Martinez
- Departamento de Metabolismo y Nutrición, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), C/José Antonio Novais, 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Blanco-Valverde
- Departamento de Metabolismo y Nutrición, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), C/José Antonio Novais, 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alicia Pino
- Departamento de Metabolismo y Nutrición, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), C/José Antonio Novais, 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Verónica Puertas-Martín
- Hospital 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Educación, Universidad Internacional de la Rioja, 26006 Logroño, Spain
| | | | - Sonia de Pascual-Teresa
- Departamento de Metabolismo y Nutrición, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN-CSIC), C/José Antonio Novais, 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Mehta JK, Kaur G, Buttar HS, Bagabir HA, Bagabir RA, Bagabir SA, Haque S, Tuli HS, Telessy IG. Role of the renin-angiotensin system in the pathophysiology of coronary heart disease and heart failure: Diagnostic biomarkers and therapy with drugs and natural products. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1034170. [PMID: 36909245 PMCID: PMC9995912 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1034170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a pivotal role in blood pressure regulation. In some cases, this steering mechanism is affected by various deleterious factors (mainly via the overactivation of the RAS) causing cardiovascular damage, including coronary heart disease (CHD) that can ultimately lead to chronic heart failure (CHF). This not only causes cardiovascular disability and absenteeism from work but also imposes significant healthcare costs globally. The incidence of cardiovascular diseases has escalated exponentially over the years with the major outcome in the form of CHD, stroke, and CHF. The involvement of the RAS in various diseases has been extensively researched with significant limelight on CHD. The RAS may trigger a cascade of events that lead to atherosclerotic mayhem, which causes CHD and related aggravation by damaging the endothelial lining of blood vessels via various inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. Although there are various diagnostic tests and treatments available in the market, there is a constant need for the development of procedures and therapeutic strategies that increase patient compliance and reduce the associated side effects. This review highlights the advances in the diagnostic and treatment domains for CHD, which would help in subjugating the side effects caused by conventional therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinit K Mehta
- Department of Pharmacology, Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM's NMIMS, Mumbai, India
| | - Ginpreet Kaur
- Department of Pharmacology, Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM's NMIMS, Mumbai, India
| | - Harpal S Buttar
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Hala Abubaker Bagabir
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rania Abubaker Bagabir
- Department of Hematology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sali Abubaker Bagabir
- Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.,Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon.,Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hardeep S Tuli
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Engineering College, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Ambala, India
| | - Istvan G Telessy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Tanghe A, Heyman E, Lespagnol E, Stautemas J, Celie B, Op ‘t Roodt J, Rietzschel E, Dias Soares D, Hermans N, Tuenter E, Shadid S, Calders P. Acute Effects of Cocoa Flavanols on Blood Pressure and Peripheral Vascular Reactivity in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Essential Hypertension. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14132692. [PMID: 35807872 PMCID: PMC9268419 DOI: 10.3390/nu14132692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with a high risk of vascular complications. Interestingly, cocoa flavanols (CF) can exert beneficial vascular effects in non-diabetic subjects. However, these effects have only been scarcely studied in T2DM. Therefore, we performed a study to assess the effects on vascular reactivity of a single dose of CF (790 mg) in T2DM and whether certain antihypertensive drugs may modulate these effects. Methods: 24 non-diabetic and 11 T2DM subjects were studied in a cross-over design. Fasting blood samples, blood pressure (BP), and arterial vasoreactivity (flow-mediated dilation) were assessed before and 70 min after capsule ingestion. Muscle microvascular reactivity was only assessed after capsule ingestion. Age, waist-to-hip ratio, BP at baseline, and the use of antihypertensive drugs were regarded as covariates in a mixed models analysis. Results: CF ingestion did not affect any parameter. However, independent of the type of capsules ingested, a decrease in diastolic BP by 3 mmHg (95% CI: −4.0; −2.0) and an increase in the change in brachial artery diameter (pre vs. post occlusion) by 0.06 mm (95% CI: 0.01; 0.12) were detected in the non-diabetic group, while they remained unchanged in the T2DM group. Conclusion: No beneficial effects of CF were detected on vascular reactivity parameters in T2DM and non-diabetic participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouk Tanghe
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (A.T.); (J.S.); (B.C.)
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d’Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, F-59000 Lille, France; (E.H.); (E.L.)
| | - Elsa Heyman
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d’Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, F-59000 Lille, France; (E.H.); (E.L.)
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF)
| | - Elodie Lespagnol
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d’Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, F-59000 Lille, France; (E.H.); (E.L.)
| | - Jan Stautemas
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (A.T.); (J.S.); (B.C.)
| | - Bert Celie
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (A.T.); (J.S.); (B.C.)
| | - Jos Op ‘t Roodt
- School of Cardiovascular Diseases (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Ernst Rietzschel
- Department of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Danusa Dias Soares
- Department of Physical Education, The Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 6627, Brazil;
| | - Nina Hermans
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (N.H.); (E.T.)
| | - Emmy Tuenter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (N.H.); (E.T.)
| | - Samyah Shadid
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Patrick Calders
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (A.T.); (J.S.); (B.C.)
- Correspondence:
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Karmanyaraj Singh Yadav, Samal RR, Sahgal A, Kumar S. Indigenous Plants Demonstrating Effective Antioxidant Properties. BIOL BULL+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359022010162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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7
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The Effect of Yellow Tea Leaves Camellia sinensis on the Quality of Stored Chocolate Confectionery. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11094123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chocolate and tea leaves are considered the most valuable sources of highly bioactive polyphenols due to their potential anti-cancer properties and beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems. The objective of the present study was the development of a sensory profiling modality that is correlated with the taste of the chocolate enriched with yellow tea phytochemicals. The additive concentration was optimized in white chocolate and the designed product was evaluated using the sensory profiling method. It was shown that the yellow tea extract in chocolate had a significant effect on the taste and color of the product. Addition of 2.0% yellow tea powdered extract increased the value of color acceptance and caused an intensification of the aromas, particularly the leafy taste, compared to the control samples. The next step of the study was to determine the influence of tea addition in white, milk and dark chocolate subjected to 6 months of storage. The designed chocolates were tested for their activity as antioxidants (DPPH, ABTS and ORAC assay) and cholinesterase inhibitors (AChE, BChE assay). It was confirmed that the yellow tea addition affected the activity of prepared chocolates with respect to radical scavenging activity and was highest for dark chocolate with yellow tea where the values were as follows: 4373 mg Tx/100 g (DPPH), 386 mg Tx/100 g (ABTS) and 4363 µM Tx/100 g (ORAC). An increase in the anti-radical activity of chocolate with yellow tea was found after 3 months of storage, but the subsequent 3 months of storage resulted in its reduction. AChE values ranged from 0.118 to 0.730 [µM eserine/g dw] and from 0.095 to 0.480 [µM eserine/g dw] for BChE assay. Total capacity to inhibit AChE and BChE differed depending on the type of chocolate and was negatively influenced by the half-year storage. Summarizing tested values for individual samples were higher, with increasing content of cocoa liquor and yellow tea extract in the product. The results of the research show that the use of yellow tea in confectionery is promising and may appoint a new direction in functional foods.
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Tanghe A, Heyman E, Vanden Wyngaert K, Van Ginckel A, Celie B, Rietzschel E, Calders P, Shadid S. Evaluation of blood pressure lowering effects of cocoa flavanols in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Funct Foods 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2021.104399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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Tanghe A, Celie B, Shadid S, Rietzschel E, Op 't Roodt J, Reesink KD, Heyman E, Calders P. Acute Effects of Cocoa Flavanols on Blood Pressure and Peripheral Vascular Reactivity in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Essential Hypertension: A Protocol for an Acute, Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Cross-Over Trial. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:602086. [PMID: 33791343 PMCID: PMC8005536 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.602086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at high risk to develop vascular complications resulting in high morbidity and mortality. Cocoa flavanols are promising nutraceuticals with possible beneficial vascular effects in humans. However, limited research is currently available on the vascular effects in a diabetic population with inconsistent results. Possible reasons for this inconsistency might be heterogeneity in the given intervention (dose per time and day, single dose vs. split-dose, placebo formula) and the studied population (blood pressure at baseline, duration of diabetes, use of vasoactive antihypertensive and antidiabetic drugs, sex). Therefore, we aimed to develop a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled cross-over trial to investigate whether cocoa flavanols have an acute impact on blood pressure and vascular reactivity in patients with type 2 diabetes with and without arterial hypertension. Methods and Analysis: We will include participants in four groups: (i) patients with type 2 diabetes without arterial hypertension, (ii) patients with type 2 diabetes with arterial hypertension and 1 antihypertensive drug, (iii) non-diabetic participants with essential hypertension and 1 antihypertensive drug, and (iv) healthy controls. All participants will complete the same protocol on both testing days, consuming high-flavanol cocoa extract (790 mg flavanols) or placebo. Macrovascular endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation) and blood pressure will be measured before and after capsule ingestion. Forearm muscle vasoreactivity (near-infrared spectroscopy) and brachial artery blood flow (echo-doppler) will be assessed in response to a dynamic handgrip exercise test after capsule ingestion. Data will be analyzed with a random intercept model in mixed models. Clinical Trial Registration:www.Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier: NCT03722199.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouk Tanghe
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ULR 7369 - URePSSS - Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, Lille, France
| | - Bert Celie
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Sport, Exercise Medicine and Lifestyle Institute (SEMLI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Samyah Shadid
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ernst Rietzschel
- Department of Cardiology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jos Op 't Roodt
- School of Cardiovascular Diseases (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Koen D Reesink
- School of Cardiovascular Diseases (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Elsa Heyman
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ULR 7369 - URePSSS - Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, Lille, France
| | - Patrick Calders
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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10
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Fanton S, Cardozo LFMF, Combet E, Shiels PG, Stenvinkel P, Vieira IO, Narciso HR, Schmitz J, Mafra D. The sweet side of dark chocolate for chronic kidney disease patients. Clin Nutr 2020; 40:15-26. [PMID: 32718711 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2020.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chocolate is a widely appreciated foodstuff with historical appreciation as a food from the gods. In addition to its highly palatable taste, it is a rich source of (poly)phenolics, which have several proposed salutogenic effects, including neuroprotective anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and cardioprotective capabilities. Despite the known benefits of this ancient foodstuff, there is a paucity of information on the effects of chocolate in the context of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This review focusses on the potential salutogenic contribution of chocolate intake, to mitigate inflammatory and oxidative burden in CKD, its potential, for cardiovascular protection and on the maintenance of diversity in gut microbiota, as well as clinical perspectives, on regular chocolate intake by CKD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susane Fanton
- Renal Vida Association, Blumenau, SC, Brazil; Graduate Program in Cardiovascular Sciences, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói-Rio de Janeiro RJ, Brazil.
| | - Ludmila F M F Cardozo
- Graduate Program in Cardiovascular Sciences, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói-Rio de Janeiro RJ, Brazil
| | - Emilie Combet
- School of Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Paul G Shiels
- Wolfson Wohl Translational Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Peter Stenvinkel
- Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Department of Clinical Science, Technology and Intervention, Karolinska Instituted, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | - Denise Mafra
- Graduate Program in Cardiovascular Sciences, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói-Rio de Janeiro RJ, Brazil; Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói-Rio de Janeiro RJ, Brazil.
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Jafari Azad B, Daneshzad E, Meysamie AP, Koohdani F. Chronic and acute effects of cocoa products intake on arterial stiffness and platelet count and function: A systematic review and dose-response Meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 61:357-379. [PMID: 32126803 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1733484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The findings of trials investigating the effect of cocoa products consumption on vascular stiffness and platelet are controversial. The aim of this study is to summarize the findings on the acute and chronic effects of different forms of cocoa on the risk factors of cardiovascular disease. We searched SCOPUS, Pub Med and Web of Science from inception to Jan 2020. Finally, the random-effect model was used to report the pooled effect sizes. Results are expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).Overall, 41 trials were included, of which only 14 studies met the eligibility criteria for analysis, including 11 long-term RCTs (more than a week was considered as a chronic phase) and 7 short-term RCTs (less than a week was considered as an acute phase). According to the result of 11 long-term RCTs, cocoa products had a negative significant effect on pulse wave velocity; PWV (WMD: -0.33 m/s, P < 0.0001), Augmentation index; AIx (WMD: -4.50%, P = 0.001) but had no significant effect on platelet count (WMD: -10.41 109/L, P = 0.053). Also, according to the results of 7 short-term RCTs, cocoa products had a negative significant effect on PWV (WMD: -0.27 m/s, P = 0.019), AIx (WMD: -4.47%, P = 0.003).Current study indicated the beneficial effect of acute and chronic consumption of cocoa-based products ingestion on platelet function and arterial stiffness in healthy adult regardless of age especially in male and for consumption (≤4 weeks) in the chronic intake and (≤120 minutes) in acute intake, but did not affect on platelet count. However, further studies are required to shed light on this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banafsheh Jafari Azad
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elnaz Daneshzad
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Pasha Meysamie
- Departmentof Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fariba Koohdani
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Diabetes Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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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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13
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Russo P, Prinzi G, Lamonaca P, Cardaci V, Fini M. Flavonoids and Reduction of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Curr Med Chem 2020; 26:7048-7058. [PMID: 29756566 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180514100640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Cardiovascular Diseases (CV) Often Coexist. COPD and CVD are complex diseases characterized by a strict interaction between environment and genetic. The mechanisms linking these two diseases are complex, multifactorial and not entirely understood, influencing the therapeutic approach. COPD is characterized by several comorbidities, it hypothesized the treatment of cardiovascular co-morbidities that may reduce morbidity and mortality. Flavonoids are an important class of plant low molecular weight Secondary Metabolites (SMs). Convincing data from laboratory, epidemiological, and human clinical studies point the important effects on CVD risk prevention. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide up-to-date information on the ability of Flavonoids to reduce the CVD risk. CONCLUSION Current studies support the potential of Flavonoids to prevent the risk of CVD. Well-designed clinical studies are suggested to evaluate advantages and limits of Flavonoids for managing CVD comorbidity in COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Russo
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS "San Raffaele Pisana" Via di Valcannuta, 247, I- 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Prinzi
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS "San Raffaele Pisana" Via di Valcannuta, 247, I- 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Palma Lamonaca
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS "San Raffaele Pisana" Via di Valcannuta, 247, I- 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Cardaci
- Unit of Pulmonary Rehabilitation, IRCCS "San Raffaele Pisana" Via della Pisana, 235, 00163 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Fini
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS "San Raffaele Pisana" Via di Valcannuta, 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy
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14
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Jafarnejad S, Salek M, Clark CCT. Cocoa Consumption and Blood Pressure in Middle-Aged and Elderly Subjects: a Meta-Analysis. Curr Hypertens Rep 2020; 22:1. [DOI: 10.1007/s11906-019-1005-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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15
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Wang Y, Feltham BA, Suh M, Jones PJ. Cocoa flavanols and blood pressure reduction: Is there enough evidence to support a health claim in the United States? Trends Food Sci Technol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2018.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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16
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Choi YJ, Choo YM, Jeong SI, Yu KY, Kim J. The Chaenomeles sinensis Extract has the Potential to Exhibit Antioxidant Activity or Attenuate Liver Damage. Nat Prod Commun 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1801300824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Even though Chaenomeles sinensis is extensively used as a medicinal product to cure coughs, little is known about the biomedical efficacies of C. sinensis. In this study, we report the novel efficacy of C. sinensis extract ( Cs-E01). Our 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and superoxide anion scavenging assays revealed that Cs-E01 exhibits strong antioxidant activity in vitro. In addition, Cs-E01 played a negative role in transforming growth factor (TGF-β1)-induced gene expression in LX-2 cells, suggesting that Cs-E01 is related to the cellular pathway suppressing liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Ji Choi
- Jeonju AgroBio-Materials Institute, Jeonju-si, Jeonbuk 54819, Korea
| | - Young-Moo Choo
- Jeonju AgroBio-Materials Institute, Jeonju-si, Jeonbuk 54819, Korea
| | - Seung-Il Jeong
- Jeonju AgroBio-Materials Institute, Jeonju-si, Jeonbuk 54819, Korea
| | - Kang-Yeol Yu
- Jeonju AgroBio-Materials Institute, Jeonju-si, Jeonbuk 54819, Korea
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17
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Sensory evaluation of dark origin and non-origin chocolates applying Temporal Dominance of Sensations (TDS). Food Res Int 2018; 111:39-49. [PMID: 30007700 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2018.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Dark chocolates are rich sources of polyphenols, widely acknowledged for eliciting several beneficial health effects. However, these compounds are key inducers of bitter taste and astringency, potentially limiting consumers' acceptance of chocolates with higher cocoa contents. In order to gain better insight in consumers' choices, the present study investigated the temporal profile of bitterness and astringency as well as sweet taste as covering agent, during the testing period in 5 dark origin (OR) (66.8-80.1% cocoa) and 6 non-origin (N-OR) (54.5-80.0% cocoa) chocolates with different cocoa contents, applying Temporal Dominance of Sensations (TDS). The temporal profile of the evaluated OR chocolates was characterized by the dominance of bitterness independent of cocoa contents (%cc), reaching maximum dominance rates (DR%) between 60.0 and 80.0% over approximately 75.0% of the testing period, i.e. prior to swallowing. After swallowing, astringency dominated, mostly not significantly. DR (%) of sweetness reached the level of significance only in one sample (OR 67.4%cc). N-OR chocolates with 54.5-60.0%cc were characterized by significant dominances of sweet taste along the entire evaluation period, reaching maximum DR% between 90 and 95%. The increase of cocoa contents was combined with higher DR% of bitter taste. Astringency dominated in N-OR samples at the end of the evaluation period presumably after swallowing. Finally, in N-OR chocolates, cc% highly affected the dominance of the evaluated attributes. This impact was found to be rather minor or absent in OR chocolates. Thus, the TDS-parameters showed variations in attribute's dominance in OR and N-OR chocolates indicating a strong influence of cocoa bean variety and local conditions (environmental and farming conditions as well as post-harvest treatment practices) in addition to cocoa contents.
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18
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Al-Dashti YA, Holt RR, Stebbins CL, Keen CL, Hackman RM. Dietary Flavanols: A Review of Select Effects on Vascular Function, Blood Pressure, and Exercise Performance. J Am Coll Nutr 2018; 37:553-567. [PMID: 29718795 DOI: 10.1080/07315724.2018.1451788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
An individual's diet affects numerous physiological functions and can play an important role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Epidemiological and clinical studies suggest that dietary flavanols can be an important modulator of vascular risk. Diets and plant extracts rich in flavanols have been reported to lower blood pressure, especially in prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals. Flavanols may act in part through signaling pathways that affect vascular function, nitric oxide availability, and the release of endothelial-derived relaxing and constricting factors. During exercise, flavanols have been reported to modulate metabolism and respiration (e.g., maximal oxygen uptake, O2 cost of exercise, and energy expenditure), and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, resulting in increased skeletal muscle efficiency and endurance capacity. Flavanol-induced reductions in blood pressure during exercise may decrease the work of the heart. Collectively, these effects suggest that flavanols can act as an ergogenic aid to help delay the onset of fatigue. More research is needed to better clarify the effects of flavanols on vascular function, blood pressure regulation, and exercise performance and establish safe and effective levels of intake. Flavanol-rich foods and food products can be useful components of a healthy diet and lifestyle program for those seeking to better control their blood pressure or to enhance their physical activity. Key teaching points • Epidemiological and clinical studies indicate that dietary flavanols can reduce the risk of vascular disease. • Diets and plant extracts rich in flavanols have been reported to lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance in humans. • Mechanisms by which flavanols may reduce blood pressure function include alterations in signaling pathways that affect vascular function, nitric oxide availability, and the release of endothelial-derived relaxation and constriction factors. • Mechanisms by which flavanols may enhance exercise performance include modulation of metabolism and respiration (e.g., maximal oxygen uptake, O2 cost of exercise, and energy expenditure) and reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation. These effects can result in increased skeletal muscle efficiency and endurance capacity. • Further research is needed to clarify the amount, timing, and frequency of flavanol intake for blood pressure regulation and exercise performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef A Al-Dashti
- a Department of Nutrition , University of California, Davis , Davis , California , USA
| | - Roberta R Holt
- a Department of Nutrition , University of California, Davis , Davis , California , USA
| | - Charles L Stebbins
- b Department of Internal Medicine , University of California, Davis , Davis , California , USA
| | - Carl L Keen
- a Department of Nutrition , University of California, Davis , Davis , California , USA.,b Department of Internal Medicine , University of California, Davis , Davis , California , USA
| | - Robert M Hackman
- a Department of Nutrition , University of California, Davis , Davis , California , USA
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19
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Protective Effect of Dark Chocolate on Cardiovascular Disease Factors and Body Composition in Type 2 Diabetes: A Parallel, Randomized, Clinical Trial. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.21644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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20
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Ludovici V, Barthelmes J, Nägele MP, Enseleit F, Ferri C, Flammer AJ, Ruschitzka F, Sudano I. Cocoa, Blood Pressure, and Vascular Function. Front Nutr 2017; 4:36. [PMID: 28824916 PMCID: PMC5539137 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2017.00036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the most common cause of death worldwide. The consumption of natural polyphenol-rich foods, and cocoa in particular, has been related to a reduced risk of CVD, including coronary heart disease and stroke. Intervention studies strongly suggest that cocoa exerts a beneficial impact on cardiovascular health, through the reduction of blood pressure (BP), improvement of vascular function, modulation of lipid and glucose metabolism, and reduction of platelet aggregation. These potentially beneficial effects have been shown in healthy subjects as well as in patients with risk factors (arterial hypertension, diabetes, and smoking) or established CVD (coronary heart disease or heart failure). Several potential mechanisms are supposed to be responsible for the positive effect of cocoa; among them activation of nitric oxide (NO) synthase, increased bioavailability of NO as well as antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is the aim of this review to summarize the findings of cocoa and chocolate on BP and vascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Ludovici
- Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Jens Barthelmes
- Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias P Nägele
- Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Frank Enseleit
- Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Claudio Ferri
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andreas J Flammer
- Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Frank Ruschitzka
- Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Isabella Sudano
- Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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21
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Combinative effect of sardine peptides and quercetin alleviates hypertension through inhibition of angiotensin I converting enzyme activity and inflammation. Food Res Int 2017; 100:579-585. [PMID: 28873724 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2017.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension had relation to angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) activity and inflammation. In our previous research, sardine peptides (SP) with ACE inhibitory activity were prepared. However, the combinative effect of SP and quercetin (QC) on hypertension alleviation was still unknown. In the present study, the antihypertensive effect of SP and QC was discovered and the optimal proportion of SP and QC (v/v=8:2, with 20.00mg/mL of SP and 12.99μg/mL of QC for their original concentrations) was screened on ACE activity inhibition in vitro. And the in vivo experiment supported it by indicating that the mixture reduced the systolic blood pressure, heart, left ventricular and kidney weight and their corresponding indices, serum ACE activity, angiotensin-II (ANG-II) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (in high dose) concentration in SHR rats. Besides, the mixture also lowers NO, TNF-α andinterleukin-6 (IL-6) concentration significantly in vitro. Hence, the combinative effect of SP and QC in optimal proportion had stronger inhibition on ACE activity than SP or QC alone, and could alleviate hypertension through inhibition of ACE activity and inflammation.
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22
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Abstract
BACKGROUND High blood pressure is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease, contributing to about 50% of cardiovascular events worldwide and 37% of cardiovascular-related deaths in Western populations. Epidemiological studies suggest that cocoa-rich products reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Flavanols found in cocoa have been shown to increase the formation of endothelial nitric oxide which promotes vasodilation and therefore blood pressure reduction. Here we update previous meta-analyses on the effect of cocoa on blood pressure. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects on blood pressure of chocolate or cocoa products versus low-flavanol products or placebo in adults with or without hypertension when consumed for two weeks or longer. SEARCH METHODS This is an updated version of the review initially published in 2012. In this updated version, we searched the following electronic databases from inception to November 2016: Cochrane Hypertension Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE and Embase. We also searched international trial registries, and the reference lists of review articles and included trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of chocolate or cocoa products on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults for a minimum of two weeks duration. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed the risks of bias in each trial. We conducted random-effects meta-analyses on the included studies using Review Manager 5. We explored heterogeneity with subgroup analyses by baseline blood pressure, flavanol content of control group, blinding, age and duration. Sensitivity analyses explored the influence of unusual study design. MAIN RESULTS Thirty-five trials (including 40 treatment comparisons) met the inclusion criteria. Of these, we added 17 trials (20 treatment comparisons) to the 18 trials (20 treatment comparisons) in the previous version of this updated review.Trials provided participants with 30 to 1218 mg of flavanols (mean = 670 mg) in 1.4 to 105 grams of cocoa products per day in the active intervention group. The control group received either a flavanol-free product (n = 26 treatment comparisons) or a low-flavanol-containing cocoa powder (range 6.4 to 88 mg flavanols (mean = 55 mg, 13 treatment comparisons; 259 mg, 1 trial).Meta-analyses of the 40 treatment comparisons involving 1804 mainly healthy participants revealed a small but statistically significant blood pressure-reducing effect of flavanol-rich cocoa products compared with control in trials of two to 18 weeks duration (mean nine weeks):Mean difference systolic blood pressure (SBP) (95% confidence interval (CI): -1.76 (-3.09 to -0.43) mmHg, P = 0.009, n = 40 treatment comparisons, 1804 participants;Mean difference diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (95% CI): -1.76 (-2.57 to -0.94) mmHg, P < 0.001, n = 39 treatment comparisons, 1772 participants.Baseline blood pressure may play a role in the effect of cocoa on blood pressure. While systolic blood pressure was reduced significantly by 4 mmHg in hypertensive people (n = 9 treatment comparisons, 401 participants), and tended to be lowered in prehypertensive people (n= 8 treatment comparisons, 340 participants), there was no significant difference in normotensive people (n = 23 treatment comparisons, 1063 participants); however, the test for subgroup differences was of borderline significance (P = 0.08; I2 = 60%), requiring further research to confirm the findings.Subgroup meta-analysis by blinding suggested a trend towards greater blood pressure reduction in unblinded trials compared to double-blinded trials, albeit statistically not significant. Further research is needed to confirm whether participant expectation may influence blood pressure results. Subgroup analysis by type of control (flavanol-free versus low-flavanol control) did not reveal a significant difference.Whether the age of participants plays a role in the effect of cocoa on blood pressure, with younger participants responding with greater blood pressure reduction, needs to be further investigated.Sensitivity analysis excluding trials with authors employed by trials sponsoring industry (33 trials, 1482 participants) revealed a small reduction in effect size, indicating some reporting bias.Due to the remaining heterogeneity, which we could not explain in terms of blinding, flavanol content of the control groups, age of participants, or study duration, we downgraded the quality of the evidence from high to moderate.Results of subgroup analyses should be interpreted with caution and need to be confirmed or refuted in trials using direct randomised comparisons.Generally, cocoa products were highly tolerable, with adverse effects including gastrointestinal complaints and nausea being reported by 1% of participants in the active cocoa intervention group and 0.4% of participants in the control groups (moderate-quality evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This review provides moderate-quality evidence that flavanol-rich chocolate and cocoa products cause a small (2 mmHg) blood pressure-lowering effect in mainly healthy adults in the short term.These findings are limited by the heterogeneity between trials, which could not be explained by prespecified subgroup analyses, including blinding, flavanol content of the control groups, age of participants, or study duration. However, baseline blood pressure may play a role in the effect of cocoa on blood pressure; subgroup analysis of trials with (pre)hypertensive participants revealed a greater blood pressure-reducing effect of cocoa compared to normotensive participants with borderline significance.Long-term trials investigating the effect of cocoa on clinical outcomes are also needed to assess whether cocoa has an effect on cardiovascular events and to assess potential adverse effects associated with chronic ingestion of cocoa products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Ried
- National Institute of Integrative Medicine21 Burwood RdHawthornMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3122
- The University of AdelaideDiscipline of General PracticeAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia5005
| | - Peter Fakler
- The University of AdelaideDiscipline of General PracticeAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia5005
| | - Nigel P Stocks
- The University of AdelaideDiscipline of General PracticeAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia5005
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23
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Martín MÁ, Ramos S. Health beneficial effects of cocoa phenolic compounds: a mini-review. Curr Opin Food Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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24
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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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25
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Grape seed flavanols decrease blood pressure via Sirt-1 and confer a vasoprotective pattern in rats. J Funct Foods 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2016.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Ferri C, Desideri G, Ferri L, Proietti I, Di Agostino S, Martella L, Mai F, Di Giosia P, Grassi D. Cocoa, blood pressure, and cardiovascular health. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2015; 63:9901-9909. [PMID: 26125676 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.5b01064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
High blood pressure is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular events worldwide. Clinical and epidemiological studies suggest that cocoa-rich products reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. According to this, cocoa has a high content in polyphenols, especially flavanols. Flavanols have been described to exert favorable effects on endothelium-derived vasodilation via the stimulation of nitric oxide-synthase, the increased availability of l-arginine, and the decreased degradation of NO. Cocoa may also have a beneficial effect by protecting against oxidative stress alterations and via decreased platelet aggregation, decreased lipid oxidation, and insulin resistance. These effects are associated with a decrease of blood pressure and a favorable trend toward a reduction in cardiovascular events and strokes. Previous meta-analyses have shown that cocoa-rich foods may reduce blood pressure. Long-term trials investigating the effect of cocoa products are needed to determine whether or not blood pressure is reduced on a chronic basis by daily ingestion of cocoa. Furthermore, long-term trials investigating the effect of cocoa on clinical outcomes are also needed to assess whether cocoa has an effect on cardiovascular events. A 3 mmHg systolic blood pressure reduction has been estimated to decrease the risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. This paper summarizes new findings concerning cocoa effects on blood pressure and cardiovascular health, focusing on putative mechanisms of action and "nutraceutical " viewpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Ferri
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giovambattista Desideri
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Livia Ferri
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Ilenia Proietti
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefania Di Agostino
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Letizia Martella
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesca Mai
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Paolo Di Giosia
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Davide Grassi
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila , 67100 Coppito, L'Aquila, Italy
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Antioxidant activity of methanol extracts of different parts of Lantana camara. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2015; 2:960-5. [PMID: 23593576 DOI: 10.1016/s2221-1691(13)60007-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2012] [Accepted: 11/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the antioxidant activity of methanolic extracts of Lantana camara (L. camara) various parts and the determination of their total phenolics content. METHODS The extract was screened for possible antioxidant activities by free radical scavenging activity(DPPH), xanthine oxidase inhibition activity and Griess-Ilosvay method. RESULTS The results showed that all the plant parts possessed antioxidant properties including radical scavenging, xanthine oxidase inhibition and nitrites scavenging activities. The antioxidative activities were correlated with the total phenol. The leaves extract of L. camara was more effective than that of other parts. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that L. camara extracts exhibit great potential for antioxidant activity and may be useful for their nutritional and medicinal functions.
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Pons Z, Margalef M, Bravo FI, Arola-Arnal A, Muguerza B. Acute administration of single oral dose of grape seed polyphenols restores blood pressure in a rat model of metabolic syndrome: role of nitric oxide and prostacyclin. Eur J Nutr 2015; 55:749-758. [DOI: 10.1007/s00394-015-0895-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Pons Z, Guerrero L, Margalef M, Arola L, Arola-Arnal A, Muguerza B. Effect of low molecular grape seed proanthocyanidins on blood pressure and lipid homeostasis in cafeteria diet-fed rats. J Physiol Biochem 2014; 70:629-37. [DOI: 10.1007/s13105-014-0329-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 02/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Latham LS, Hensen ZK, Minor DS. Chocolate--guilty pleasure or healthy supplement? J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2014; 16:101-6. [PMID: 24734311 PMCID: PMC8031600 DOI: 10.1111/jch.12223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Revised: 09/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Dark chocolate and other cocoa products are popular in the population as a whole, but their overall health benefit remains controversial. Observations from the Kuna Indian population have shown an impressive cardiovascular health benefit from cocoa. For various reasons, this benefit has not been as robust as in other populations. Additionally, several mechanisms have been proposed that might confer cocoa's possible health benefit, but no consensus has been reached on cocoa's physiologic role in promoting cardiovascular health. Flavanols, as well as theobromine, may contribute to enhancements in endothelial function and subsequent improvements in various contributors to cardiovascular disease (CVD) including hypertension, platelet aggregation and adhesion, insulin resistance, and hypercholesterolemia. While the benefits of cocoa may be altered at the various stages of growth, development, and production, it appears that for many people "healthy" dark chocolate may, indeed, provide a pleasurable role in CVD risk reduction. The objectives of this review are to discuss the associations of cocoa with decreased blood pressure and improved CVD risk, to describe the possible mechanisms for these potential benefits, and to highlight considerations for the use of cocoa as a dietary supplement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura S. Latham
- Department of PharmacyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Zeb K. Hensen
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Deborah S. Minor
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
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31
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Effects of dark chocolate and cocoa consumption on endothelial function and arterial stiffness in overweight adults. Br J Nutr 2013; 111:653-61. [PMID: 24274771 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114513002912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The consumption of cocoa and dark chocolate is associated with a lower risk of CVD, and improvements in endothelial function may mediate this relationship. Less is known about the effects of cocoa/chocolate on the augmentation index (AI), a measure of vascular stiffness and vascular tone in the peripheral arterioles. We enrolled thirty middle-aged, overweight adults in a randomised, placebo-controlled, 4-week, cross-over study. During the active treatment (cocoa) period, the participants consumed 37 g/d of dark chocolate and a sugar-free cocoa beverage (total cocoa = 22 g/d, total flavanols (TF) = 814 mg/d). Colour-matched controls included a low-flavanol chocolate bar and a cocoa-free beverage with no added sugar (TF = 3 mg/d). Treatments were matched for total fat, saturated fat, carbohydrates and protein. The cocoa treatment significantly increased the basal diameter and peak diameter of the brachial artery by 6% (+2 mm) and basal blood flow volume by 22%. Substantial decreases in the AI, a measure of arterial stiffness, were observed in only women. Flow-mediated dilation and the reactive hyperaemia index remained unchanged. The consumption of cocoa had no effect on fasting blood measures, while the control treatment increased fasting insulin concentration and insulin resistance (P= 0·01). Fasting blood pressure (BP) remained unchanged, although the acute consumption of cocoa increased resting BP by 4 mmHg. In summary, the high-flavanol cocoa and dark chocolate treatment was associated with enhanced vasodilation in both conduit and resistance arteries and was accompanied by significant reductions in arterial stiffness in women.
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Munir KM, Chandrasekaran S, Gao F, Quon MJ. Mechanisms for food polyphenols to ameliorate insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction: therapeutic implications for diabetes and its cardiovascular complications. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2013; 305:E679-86. [PMID: 23900418 PMCID: PMC4073986 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00377.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The rising epidemic of diabetes is a pressing issue in clinical medicine worldwide from both healthcare and economic perspectives. This is fueled by overwhelming increases in the incidence and prevalence of obesity. Obesity and diabetes are characterized by both insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction that lead to substantial increases in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Reciprocal relationships between insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction tightly link metabolic diseases including obesity and diabetes with their cardiovascular complications. Therefore, therapeutic approaches that target either insulin resistance or endothelial dysfunction alone are likely to simultaneously improve both metabolic and cardiovascular pathophysiology and disease outcomes. Moreover, combination therapies with agents targeting distinct mechanisms are likely to have additive or synergistic benefits. Conventional therapies for diabetes and its cardiovascular complications that are both safe and effective are insufficient to meet rising demand. Large, robust, epidemiologic studies demonstrate beneficial metabolic and cardiovascular health effects for many functional foods containing various polyphenols. However, precise molecular mechanisms of action for food polyphenols are largely unknown. Moreover, translation of these insights into effective clinical therapies has not been fully realized. Nevertheless, some functional foods are likely sources for safe and effective therapies and preventative strategies for metabolic diseases and their cardiovascular complications. In this review, we emphasize recent progress in elucidating molecular, cellular, and physiological actions of polyphenols from green tea (EGCG), cocoa (ECG), and citrus fruits (hesperedin) that are related to improving metabolic and cardiovascular pathophysiology. We also discuss a rigorous comprehensive approach to studying functional foods that is essential for developing novel, effective, and safe medications derived from functional foods that will complement existing conventional drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kashif M Munir
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Nutrition, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and
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Kivimäki AS, Siltari A, Ehlers PI, Korpela R, Vapaatalo H. Lingonberry juice lowers blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). J Funct Foods 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2013.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
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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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Abstract
Cocoa is a dry, powdered, nonfat component product prepared from the seeds of the Theobroma cacao L. tree and is a common ingredient of many food products, particularly chocolate. Nutritionally, cocoa contains biologically active substances that may affect human health: flavonoids (epicatechin and oligomeric procyanidins), theobromine, and magnesium. Theobromine and epicatechin are absorbed efficiently in the small intestine, and the nature of their conjugates and metabolites are now known. Oligomeric procyanidins are poorly absorbed in the small intestine, but catabolites are very efficiently absorbed after microbial biotransformation in the colon. A significant number of studies, using in vitro and in vivo approaches, on the effects of cocoa and its constituent flavonoids have been conducted. Most human intervention studies have been performed on cocoa as an ingredient, whereas many in vitro studies have been performed on individual components. Approximately 70 human intervention studies have been carried out on cocoa and cocoa-containing products over the past 12 years, with a variety of endpoints. These studies indicate that the most robust biomarkers affected are endothelial function, blood pressure, and cholesterol level. Mechanistically, supporting evidence shows that epicatechin affects nitric oxide synthesis and breakdown (via inhibition of nicotinamide adenine di-nucleotide phosphate oxidase) and the substrate arginine (via inhibition of arginase), among other targets. Evidence further supports cocoa as a biologically active ingredient with potential benefits on biomarkers related to cardiovascular disease. However, the calorie and sugar content of chocolate and its contribution to the total diet should be taken into account in intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Ellam
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom.
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Characterisation of hypertensive patients with improved endothelial function after dark chocolate consumption. Int J Hypertens 2013; 2013:985087. [PMID: 23533716 PMCID: PMC3603200 DOI: 10.1155/2013/985087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings indicate an inverse relationship between cardiovascular disease and consumption of flavonoids. We aimed to identify clinical and vascular parameters of treated hypertensive who present beneficial effects of dark chocolate for one-week period on vascular function. Twenty-one hypertensive subjects, aged 40–65 years, were included in a prospective study with measurement of blood pressure (BP), brachial flow-mediated dilatation (FMD), peripheral arterial tonometry, and central hemodynamic parameters. These tests were repeated after seven days of eating dark chocolate 75 g/day. Patients were divided according to the response in FMD: responders (n = 12) and nonresponders (n = 9). The responder group presented lower age (54 ± 7 versus 61 ± 6 years, P = 0.037), Framingham risk score (FRS) (2.5 ± 1.8 versus 8.1 ± 5.1%, P = 0.017), values of peripheral (55 ± 9 versus 63 ± 5 mmHg, P = 0.041), and central pulse pressure (PP) (44 ± 10 versus 54 ± 6 mmHg, P = 0.021). FMD response showed negative correlation with FRS (r = −0.60, P = 0.014), baseline FMD (r = −0.54, P = 0.011), baseline reactive hyperemia index (RHI; r = −0.56, P = 0.008), and central PP (r = −0.43, P = 0.05). However, after linear regression analysis, only FRS and baseline RHI were associated with FMD response. In conclusion, one-week dark chocolate intake significantly improved endothelial function and reduced BP in younger hypertensive with impaired endothelial function in spite of lower cardiovascular risk.
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Patten GS, Abeywardena MY, Head RJ, Bennett LE. Processed dietary plants demonstrate broad capacity for angiotensin converting enzyme and angiotensin II receptor binding inhibition in vitro. J Funct Foods 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
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Abstract
BACKGROUND High blood pressure is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease attributing to about 50% of cardiovascular events worldwide and 37% of cardiovascular related deaths in Western populations. Epidemiological studies suggest that cocoa rich products reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Flavanols found in cocoa have been shown to increase the formation of endothelial nitric oxide which promotes vasodilation and therefore blood pressure reduction. Previous meta-analyses have shown that cocoa-rich foods may reduce blood pressure. Recently additional trials had conflicting results. OBJECTIVES To determine the effect of flavanol-rich chocolate or cocoa products on blood pressure in people with or without hypertension. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following electronic databases from inception to November 2011: Cochrane Hypertension Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE. In addition we searched international trial registries, and the reference lists of review articles and included trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCT) investigating the effects of chocolate or cocoa products on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults for a minimum of two weeks duration. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias in each trial in consultation with a third author. Random effects meta-analyses on all studies fitting the inclusion criteria were conducted using Review Manager version 5.1 and Stata version 12. Heterogeneity was explored by subgroup analyses and univariate meta-regression analysis of several variables including dosage of flavanol content (total or monomers) in chocolate or cocoa products, blinding, baseline blood pressure, theobromine content, sugar content, body-mass-index (BMI), duration and age. MAIN RESULTS Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses of the 20 studies involving 856 mainly healthy participants revealed a statistically significant blood pressure reducing effect of flavanol-rich cocoa products compared with control in short-term trials of 2-18 weeks duration: Mean difference SBP (95%CI): -2.77 (-4.72, -0.82) mm Hg, p=0.005, n=20; mean difference DBP (95%CI): - 2.20 (-3.46, -0.93) mm Hg, p=0.006, n=19 available for DBP.Trials provided participants with 30-1080 mg of flavanols (mean=545.5 mg) in 3.6-105 g of cocoa products per day in the active intervention group. In half of the trials (n=10) the active group consumed 500-750 mg of flavanols per day. The control group received either a flavanol-free product (n=12) or a low-flavanol containing cocoa powder (6.4 and 41 mg flavanols, n=8). Subgroup meta-analysis of trials with a flavanol-free control group revealed a significant blood pressure reducing effect, in contrast to trials using a low-flavanol product in the control group. This analysis may have been confounded by trial duration and the level of blinding of participants.Trial duration was short (mean 4.4 weeks, range 2-8 weeks, n=19, and one trial of 18 weeks). A significant blood pressure reducing effect was evident in trials of 2 weeks duration (n=9), but not in trials of >2 weeks duration (n=11). It is important to note that seven out of the nine trials (78%) of 2 weeks duration also had a flavanol-free control group. Therefore, subgroup analysis by duration might be confounded by flavanol dosage used in the control groups, and the level of blinding of participants.Adverse effects including gastrointestinal complaints and distaste of the trial product were reported by 5% of patients in the active cocoa intervention group and 1% of patients in the control groups. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Flavanol-rich chocolate and cocoa products may have a small but statistically significant effect in lowering blood pressure by 2-3 mm Hg in the short term.Our findings are limited by the heterogeneity between trials, which was explored by univariate meta-regression and subgroup analyses. Subgroup meta-analysis of trials using a flavanol-free control group revealed a significant blood pressure reducing effect of cocoa, whereas analysis of trials using a low-flavanol control product did not. While it appears that shorter trials of 2 weeks duration were more effective, analysis may be confounded by type of control and unblinding of participants, as the majority of 2-week trials also used a flavanol-free control and unblinding of participants. Results of these and other subgroup analyses based on, for example, age of participants, should be interpreted with caution and need to be confirmed or refuted in trials using direct randomized comparison.Long-term trials investigating the effect of cocoa products are needed to determine whether or not blood pressure is reduced on a chronic basis by daily ingestion of cocoa. Furthermore, long-term trials investigating the effect of cocoa on clinical outcomes are also needed to assess whether cocoa has an effect on cardiovascular events and to assess potential adverse effects associated with chronic ingestion of cocoa products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Ried
- National Institute of IntegrativeMedicine,Melbourne, Australia.
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40
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Is bitter better? The benefits of chocolate for the cardiovascular system. Curr Hypertens Rep 2011; 13:401-3. [PMID: 21953488 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-011-0232-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Li WW, Li VW, Hutnik M, Chiou AS. Tumor angiogenesis as a target for dietary cancer prevention. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2011; 2012:879623. [PMID: 21977033 PMCID: PMC3184418 DOI: 10.1155/2012/879623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2011] [Accepted: 07/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Between 2000 and 2050, the number of new cancer patients diagnosed annually is expected to double, with an accompanying increase in treatment costs of more than $80 billion over just the next decade. Efficacious strategies for cancer prevention will therefore be vital for improving patients' quality of life and reducing healthcare costs. Judah Folkman first proposed antiangiogenesis as a strategy for preventing dormant microtumors from progressing to invasive cancer. Although antiangiogenic drugs are now available for many advanced malignancies (colorectal, lung, breast, kidney, liver, brain, thyroid, neuroendocrine, multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndrome), cost and toxicity considerations preclude their broad use for cancer prevention. Potent antiangiogenic molecules have now been identified in dietary sources, suggesting that a rationally designed antiangiogenic diet could provide a safe, widely available, and novel strategy for preventing cancer. This paper presents the scientific, epidemiologic, and clinical evidence supporting the role of an antiangiogenic diet for cancer prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- William W. Li
- The Angiogenesis Foundation, One Broadway, 14th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Vincent W. Li
- The Angiogenesis Foundation, One Broadway, 14th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Michelle Hutnik
- The Angiogenesis Foundation, One Broadway, 14th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Albert S. Chiou
- The Angiogenesis Foundation, One Broadway, 14th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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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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Fernández-Murga L, Tarín J, García-Perez M, Cano A. The impact of chocolate on cardiovascular health. Maturitas 2011; 69:312-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2011.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2011] [Accepted: 05/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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