It is a well known fact that cacao is packed full of flavonoids. This study which is the first known to study the effect in human subjects to determine its support on endocrine, cardiovascular health, and cognition shows higher concentrations of cacao have more positive impacts and beneficial effects. Flavonoids, which are found within dark chocolate, are potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents having known beneficial mechanisms for cardiovascular and brain health.
70% cacao dark chocolate during the trial was examined and the effects on humans immune and dendritic cell gene expression, focussing on pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines. It was found that consumption up-regulates multiple intracellular signaling pathways which play roles in T-cell activation, immune responses, and genes involved in sensory perception and neural signalling.
70% organic cacao dark chocolate trials assessed electroencephalography responses of consumption after 30 and 120 minutes on modulating brain frequencies of 0-40HZ, specifically gamma 25-40HZ, and found that consumption enhances neuroplasticity of benefits for behavioral and brain health.
Researchers say that it still requires further investigations to determine effects for immune cells and the brain in a larger population to elaborate the mechanisms involved in the cause and effect behavior relationship with cacao at this concentration. Either was findings are very encouraging making this appear to be an even more perfect snack choice to enjoy in moderation, which will be presented during the 2018 Experimental Biology meeting.
