Flavanol-rich cocoa: a cardioprotective nutraceutical.
A growing number of epidemiologic studies have shown a link between the ingestion of flavonoid-rich cocoa and cardiovascular health benefits. A particular kind of flavonoid found in cocoa, namely flavan-3-ol (flavanol), has recently received more attention in this context. This review discusses the cardioprotective properties of flavanols, and the mechanisms underlying these beneficial actions.
Mehrinfar
Ramona
R
Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Frishman
William H
WH
D000975:Antioxidants / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001682:Biological Availability; D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000187:drug effects; D002099:Cacao; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004730:Endothelium, Vascular / Q000187:drug effects; D005419:Flavonoids / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005511:Food Handling; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy; D007249:Inflammation / Q000188:drug therapy; D008517:Phytotherapy; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010974:Platelet Aggregation / Q000187:drug effects
D000975:Antioxidants; D005419:Flavonoids; D010936:Plant Extracts; C404987:flavan-3-ol