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Dark chocolate is a popular snack, but its high sugar content raises health concerns. This study explores the potential of Nypa fruticans sugar (Gula Apong) as a natural sugar alternative to enhance the nutritional profile and quality of dark chocolate. The research evaluates its impact on physicochemical, tribological, and sensory properties. Key findings reveal that Nypa fruticans sugar significantly (p < 0.05) increases ash content (1.83–2.11%), mineral levels (notably potassium (5.57–6.81 mg/100 g) and magnesium (1.00-1.39 mg/100 g)), reducing sugar (2.03–3.04%), moisture (2.91–3.48%), hardness (6.16–6.39 kg), and spreadability, while reducing viscosity (7068.20-5578.45 cP). Microstructural analysis highlights changes in sugar crystal size, agglomeration, and amorphous phases. Thermal analysis shows variations in melting profiles, with notable shifts in enthalpy values, reflecting that more energy is required for the melting process in dark chocolate with increased substitution of Nypa fruticans sugar (2.60–3.00 J/g). Tribological assessments indicate a shift in the transition from static to dynamic friction, occurring at higher sliding velocities with increased substitution of Nypa fruticans sugar. Sensory evaluation identified NFC50 as the most preferred formulation, reflecting favorable perceptions of color, aroma, flavor, texture, and taste. Notably, the sugar substitution had minimal effects on protein, fat, and carbohydrate content, ensuring overall nutritional balance. In a nutshell, this study underscores the potential of Nypa fruticans sugar to create healthier, locally sourced dark chocolate with enhanced sensory and nutritional attributes, paving the way for sustainable innovation in confectionery and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chocolate is one of the most popular and widely consumed confectionery products. However, elevated cadmium (Cd) content in this commodity threatens food safety and human health. It is crucial to monitor the presence of Cd in chocolate and to evaluate its associated health risks. This study assessed the Cd levels in milk and dark chocolates from the Serbian market (n = 155). Cadmium concentrations varied between 0.010 and 0.29 mg/kg. The obtained values were used to evaluate the hazard quotient (HQ) and cancer risk (CR). The estimated weekly intakes (EWIs) were below the tolerable limits for all samples. However, in some samples, the EWI reached 60.9% and 63.5% of the tolerable limit for toddlers and other children, respectively. No health risk was found based on the HQ. On the other hand, based on CR values, all chocolate products can be classified as posing a moderate risk. The Monte Carlo simulation indicated that toddlers and other children were more exposed to non-carcinogenic risk, whereas vegetarians, adults, pregnant women, and other children were more exposed to cancer risk. Sensitivity analysis indicates that body weight, exposure frequency, and ingestion rate are the most influential factors for non-cancer and cancer health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The incorporation of functional food ingredients in chocolate that seek to eliminate, if not completely, most of the added sugar content, as well as the use of alternative chocolate production techniques, have gained popularity in recent years. This study aimed to incorporate red beetroot powder into dark chocolate and investigate the effect of red beetroot powder concentration and processing time in a melanger on the physicochemical properties, sensory profile and consumer acceptability of beetroot dark chocolate. RESULTS: The addition of red beetroot powder increased the moisture content, particle size distribution and hardness of the chocolates, while the opposite was true for processing time with no effect on the colour. Except for taste, which had an average score of 3.2 ± 1.8 on the 7‐point hedonic scale, consumers scored all the other sensory attributes of the chocolates above 4.0. Among the chocolates with red beetroot powder, samples with a 15% red beetroot powder addition had a high average overall acceptability score of >5, while the 30% sample scored <4. CONCLUSION: Red beetroot powder can be used to replace sugar in dark chocolate without affecting its physicochemical properties, sensory profile or consumer acceptability. However, the target market should be considered when determining the level of red beetroot powder incorporation in terms of chocolate taste. This research has the potential to improve the overall health‐promoting properties of dark chocolate by eliminating added sugar (partially or completely). It would also help to diversify beetroot utilization, allow small‐scale processors to venture into chocolate production and expand the small‐scale chocolate value chain. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares the rheological, thermal, and textural characteristics of four types of chocolate—white, milk, ruby, and dark—produced by the same manufacturer. White, milk, and ruby chocolates contain 36% fat, while dark chocolate has 39%. Cocoa content varies from 28% in white, 33% in milk, 47% in ruby, to 70% in dark chocolate. Rheological properties were assessed with a rotational rheometer, while density was measured with a gas pycnometer. Particle size distribution (PSD) was evaluated using laser diffraction, and thermal properties were analyzed with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The DSC results indicated that enthalpy increased with cocoa content, whereby dark chocolate showed the highest value (55.04 J g−1) and white chocolate the lowest (35.3 J g−1). PSD followed a monomodal pattern; dark chocolate had the smallest particles, leading to the highest hardness. Density ranged from 1.2773 to 1.2067 g∙cm−3. The results from classical rotational rheological measurements were in accordance with oscillatory measurements. Rheological measurements confirmed that the Casson yield stress was the highest for milk chocolate (17.61 Pa). The viscosity values decreased with increasing shear rate for all chocolates. All chocolate samples showed strong shear-thinning behavior up to a 100 s−1 shear rate. Oscillatory measurements showed the paste-like nature of all samples, i.e., storage modulus G' dominates loss modulus G" at small shear stress values, and the complex modulus G*, which represents the stiffness, varied as follows: milk > white > dark > ruby. This study offers valuable insights into the properties of chocolates during production and storage, helping manufacturers anticipate key characteristics for new confectionery products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foods rich in polyphenols have beneficial effects on health. This study aimed to examine the impact of dark chocolate on endurance runners' arterial function. Forty-six male amateur runners, aged 25–55, participated. The initial assessments included clinical testing, arterial stiffness measurements, and a cardiopulmonary exercise test. The participants then consumed 50 g of dark chocolate (70% cocoa) daily for two weeks, maintaining their usual training routine. After this period, the baseline assessment was repeated. The results showed significant improvements. Pulse wave velocity decreased by 11.82% (p < 0.001), and augmentation index by 19.47% (p < 0.001). Systolic brachial blood pressure reduced by 2.12% (p < 0.05), diastolic by 2.79% (p < 0.05), and mean pressure by 2.41% (p < 0.05). Central arterial pressure also decreased, with systolic by 1.24% (p < 0.05), diastolic by 2.80% (p < 0.05), and mean pressure by 2.43% (p < 0.05). Resting heart rate increased by 4.57% (p < 0.05) and left ventricular ejection time decreased by 4.89% (p < 0.05), particularly in athletes over 40. Exercise time increased by 2.16% (p < 0.05), heart rate (max) by 1.15% (p < 0.05), VO2max by 2.31% (p < 0.05), and anaerobic threshold shifted by 6.91% (p < 0.001) in exercise time and 6.93% (p < 0.001) in VO2max. In conclusion, dark chocolate improves arterial function in endurance runners, enhancing vascular health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dark chocolate is a confectionery product traditionally made from cocoa beans, sugar, and vanilla essence. The aim of the study was to investigate the thermal properties of dark chocolates and fats extracted from these chocolates using thermal methods of food analysis, such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry (TG). The profile of fatty acids in the fat extracted from the chocolates was also determined. The presence of three fatty acids (palmitic P, stearic S, and oleic O) constituting triacylglycerols—SOS, POP, POS, POO, and SOO—was observed in all the samples. The presence of linoleic acid (L) was also found, which forms triacylglycerols such as PLP and PLS. The researched chocolates were characterized by a diverse composition of fatty acids. In all the obtained DSC melting curves of fats, the presence of endothermic peaks was observed. The peaks, appearing at negative temperatures, may be caused by the transition of low-melting triacylglycerols. The differences between the melting curves for the obtained dark chocolate fats may have resulted from the presence of less stable polymorphic forms of cocoa butter. Based on the shape of the TG and DTG curves, it could be possible to indicate the adulteration of chocolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistance exercises and nutritional strategy are the best ways to prevent with age- related muscle atrophy (sarcopenia) by improving the physiological function of skeletal muscle. This study investigated the effect of 8 weeks of Water resistance training with consumption of dark chocolate on the changes and correlation of IGF-1 and FOXO3 in elderly women. In this study, 40 sedentary elderly women with an age range of 60-73 years were randomly divided into four groups: 1. water resistance training, 2. water resistance training + dark chocolate, 3. dark chocolate, 4. control. The subjects of the training groups did water resistance training for eight weeks. During these 8 weeks, the dark chocolate groups consumed 30 grams of 83% dark chocolate every day, and the control group received neither exercise nor Dark chocolate. Blood sampling was done 48 hours before the study and after the end of the last training session. Expressions of IGF-1 and FOXO3 were measured by real time-PCR method. After 8 weeks of water resistance training and consumption of dark chocolate, the expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) gene increased significantly compared to the pretest (p0.05). These findings underscore the potential of targeted exercise and dietary interventions in enhancing muscle health among the elderly, although further research is needed to understand the implications of unchanged FOXO3 in this context.

Menopause is a critical stage in a woman's life in which cardiometabolic alterations appear, such as insulin resistance or a predisposition to visceral fat deposits, leading to an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases (R-CMBs). New strategies to reduce the R-CMBs in postmenopausal women using natural compounds without adverse effects are desirable. In this sense, plant-based diets rich in fruits and vegetables could play a fundamental role due to the high content of bioactive compounds found in these diets, such as (poly)phenols, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasodilator properties. The aim of this research was to carry out a dietary trial to evaluate the effect of the daily intake of different (poly)phenol-rich foods (PP-rich foods) for 2 months on the modulation of the main cardiometabolic risk biomarkers of postmenopausal women. The results showed a slight improvement in blood pressure (BP), lipid profile and oxidative stress, endothelial function and inflammatory biomarkers. These findings suggest that daily consumption of PP-rich foods alleviated the R-CMBs of postmenopausal women by reducing the oxidative stress and, thus, the risk of cardiovascular events; however, the magnitude of the cardioprotective effect of (poly)phenols depends on inter-individual variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Colombiana de Investigaciones Agroindustriales is the property of Revista Colombiana de Investigaciones Agroindustriales del Centro Agropecuario Sena Buga and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the present study, at the first a blending of sodium alginate and soy protein isolate (SPI) as wall material were used to encapsulate chia seed (Salvia hispanica) oil as a source of omega-3 into the microspheres. The microspheres were formed at different ratios (5:1, 5:3, and 5:5) of sodium alginate/ (SPI) via the extrusion method, maintaining a constant core/wall ratio of 10%. Morphological structures and physicochemical properties of the microspheres were investigated. In the second step, the microspheres with a ratio 5:3 of alginate/SPI were added to dark chocolate formulation. The characteristics of the fortified dark chocolate were compared to the control sample through sensory evaluation, moisture content and water activity, differential scanning calorimetric (DSC), and texture analysis. The sensory evaluation revealed that the fortified dark chocolate achieved higher acceptance levels compared to the control sample, indicating its potential for commercial success. This research demonstrates a promising approach to enhance the nutritional profile of chocolate while maintaining its sensory appeal. Practical applications: • A blend of SPI/Alginate was successfully used to well entrap the chia seed oil. • Fortified dark chocolate with alginate/SPI microspheres showed higher acceptance level. • Alginate/SPI microspheres show a potential for enhancing nutritional profile of foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oxidative stress and inflammation play critical roles in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Dark chocolate (DC)/cocoa, as a rich source of polyphenols like flavonoids, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may confer health benefits, but findings in this context are inconsistent. Objective: This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the controlled trials (CTs) that have examined the effects of DC/cocoa on oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers in adults. Search methods: Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, were searched for relevant studies through April 2024. selection criteria: Studies assessed C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), P-selectin, E-selectin and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in adults were included. Data analysis: Based on the random-effects model, we calculated WMDs, SMDs and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Sensitivity, sub-group, meta-regression and dose-response analyses were also conducted. Results: Thirty-three eligible CTs with 1379 participants were included. All studies reported the intervention types (cocoa powder, beverages and chocolate bars) and dosage. However, sixteen studies didn’t do/report testing for purity and potency by independent groups. Also, none of the studies mentioned the risk of contamination with heavy metals. Another limitation was the lack of blinding assessment in studies. DC/cocoa significantly reduced MDA (SMD: −0.69, 95 %CI: −1.17, −0.2, p = 0.005) and increased NO levels (SMD: 2.43, 95 %CI: 1.11,3.75, p 450 mg/day) and for shorter durations (≤4 weeks) in the non-healthy participants. Non-linear dose-response relationships between cocoa dosage and CRP level and also between flavonoid dosage and IL-6 level were observed. Based on the GRADE evaluation, just CRP and MDA results were considered as high certainty evidence and the other outcomes results were categorized as very low to moderate certainty. Conclusions: DC/cocoa may improve systemic oxidative status and inflammation in adults. However, further studies should be performed to determine its benefits.

Because of its taste, texture, and aroma, chocolate is consumed as a way to generate pleasant sensations. Due to its high caloric density, moderate consumption is recommended. Seeking to offer the benefits of this product to a more selective public, the aim of this research was to determine the chemical composition and sensory properties of a sugar-free dark chocolate added with inulin and sweetened with stevia extract obtained by pressurized hot water, which was compared with a commercial dark chocolate and accompanied by a sensory analysis of the samples. A completely randomized statistical experimental design was used to compare the properties of the alternative and commercial chocolates. The treatments were carried out in triplicate and the results obtained were analyzed by descriptive statistics and one-way analysis of variance with 95 % confidence level. The results showed that the treatment of stevia leaves with hot pressurized water allowed an extraction of 41.51 g of steviol glycosides for rebaudioside A and 6.76 g for stevioside per 100 g of leaves subjected to processing. The chemical analysis of the alternative and commercial chocolates indicated that the fat and total dietary fiber contents showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the dark chocolates, unlike the other components. Moisture, ash, fat, and protein contents were slightly higher in the two types of chocolate, and carbohydrate content was 4.1 % lower than in the commercial chocolate. Both products had 0 % added sugars and high dietary fiber content (> 37 %), and there was a reduction of 100 kcal/100 g compared to the commercial brand. Consumer sensory evaluation showed a higher level of liking (p < 0.05) for the elaborated chocolate with respect to the commercial product in attributes such as appearance, color, and texture. These findings suggest the use of stevia extracts obtained by pressurized hot water as a non-caloric sweetener for healthy, alternative dark chocolates suitable for people with diabetes.

Foods rich in polyphenols have beneficial effects on health. This study aimed to examine the impact of dark chocolate on endurance runners’ arterial function. Forty-six male amateur runners, aged 25–55, participated. The initial assessments included clinical testing, arterial stiffness measurements, and a cardiopulmonary exercise test. The participants then consumed 50 g of dark chocolate (70% cocoa) daily for two weeks, maintaining their usual training routine. After this period, the baseline assessment was repeated. The results showed significant improvements. Pulse wave velocity decreased by 11.82% (p < 0.001), and augmentation index by 19.47% (p < 0.001). Systolic brachial blood pressure reduced by 2.12% (p < 0.05), diastolic by 2.79% (p < 0.05), and mean pressure by 2.41% (p < 0.05). Central arterial pressure also decreased, with systolic by 1.24% (p < 0.05), diastolic by 2.80% (p < 0.05), and mean pressure by 2.43% (p < 0.05). Resting heart rate increased by 4.57% (p < 0.05) and left ventricular ejection time decreased by 4.89% (p < 0.05), particularly in athletes over 40. Exercise time increased by 2.16% (p < 0.05), heart rate (max) by 1.15% (p < 0.05), VO2max by 2.31% (p < 0.05), and anaerobic threshold shifted by 6.91% (p < 0.001) in exercise time and 6.93% (p < 0.001) in VO2max. In conclusion, dark chocolate improves arterial function in endurance runners, enhancing vascular health.

Chocolate is one of the most popular and widely consumed confectionery products. However, elevated cadmium (Cd) content in this commodity threatens food safety and human health. It is crucial to monitor the presence of Cd in chocolate and to evaluate its associated health risks. This study assessed the Cd levels in milk and dark chocolates from the Serbian market (n = 155). Cadmium concentrations varied between 0.010 and 0.29 mg/kg. The obtained values were used to evaluate the hazard quotient (HQ) and cancer risk (CR). The estimated weekly intakes (EWIs) were below the tolerable limits for all samples. However, in some samples, the EWI reached 60.9% and 63.5% of the tolerable limit for toddlers and other children, respectively. No health risk was found based on the HQ. On the other hand, based on CR values, all chocolate products can be classified as posing a moderate risk. The Monte Carlo simulation indicated that toddlers and other children were more exposed to non-carcinogenic risk, whereas vegetarians, adults, pregnant women, and other children were more exposed to cancer risk. Sensitivity analysis indicates that body weight, exposure frequency, and ingestion rate are the most influential factors for non-cancer and cancer health risks.

Studies indicated that cocoa-based products effectively mitigate the risks associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), however, the effect varies based on cocoa types, dosages, and study durations. This review aimed to determine the flavanol-rich cocoa consumption on MetS outcomes within the last decade (2013-2023), adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Seven randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) used cocoa-based products containing 0.3-1680 mg flavanol monomers and 3.5-1270 mg procyanidins. Cocoa-based products beneficially reduced glycemic response, blood pressure and lipid profiles. However, this review highlights little evidence pinpointing the best cocoa products type and required dosage for the observed effects. Further intervention aiming to improve MetS should justify the selection and concentration of flavanols (monomers and procyanidins). A robust study design should consider registering the trials before study commencement, consider multicenter RCT trials, and adjust for potential covariates that might "masked" the outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to evaluate the antipsychotic-like activity of dark chocolate against Ketamine-induced psychosis in animals and to explore the possible underlying mechanisms for this activity. Dark chocolate (200, 400 mg/kg, along with diet), haloperidol (1mg/kg, i.p.), and olanzapine (5mg/kg, i.p) were administered daily to different groups of mice and rats; after 30 min Ketamine was injected for 21 successive days. The antipsychotic- like activity was assessed using an actophotometer, stereotypic behaviors, forced swim test (FST), and passive avoidance test. Dark Chocolate (DC) and olanzapine remarkably decreased the immobility period of Ketamine-treated mice in FST, indicating the beneficial effect of DC against depressive or negative symptoms of psychosis. There was no significant effect on the locomotor activity of the mice with the administration of DC, while it showed a reducing impact against stereotypic behaviors. Furthermore, DC significantly reduced the time taken by the rats to climb the pole, showing the effect of DC on cognition. In addition, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), and tissue necrosis factor (TNF-α) levels were markedly decreased and increased GABA and enhanced reduced glutathione (GSH) levels with the treatment of DC. Furthermore, DC was also effective in reducing the ketamine induced hyperchromatic nuclei, perinuclear vacuolization, and dilated vascular channels in the cortex part of the brain. Behavioral, biochemical, and histopathological studies suggest the protective effect of DC against Ketamine induced psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Low-fat dark chocolate was developed by replacing cocoa butter with porang glucomannan and lecithin addition. The study was to determine the effect of cocoa butter replacement levels by porang glucomannan (10%, 15%, 20%) and lecithin (1%, 1.5%, 2%) on the melting point, hardness, cohesiveness, springiness , gumminess, chewiness, color, and glossiness of dark chocolate which was using a factorial group randomized design with ANOVA and continued with the Tukey HSD test. The results showed that not interaction of the level of cocoa butter replacement by glucomannan and lecithin on melting point. The cocoa butter replacement level by porang glucomannan and lecithin and their interactions affected hardness, cohesiveness, springiness , gumminess, chewiness, color, and glossiness. The higher level of cocoa butter replacement levels by porang glucomannan and lecithin increased the melting point and hardness of dark chocolate. Porang glucomannan and lecithin can be used to reduce cocoa butter and can improve the physical properties of dark chocolate.

Dark chocolate is a confectionery product traditionally made from cocoa beans, sugar, and vanilla essence. The aim of the study was to investigate the thermal properties of dark chocolates and fats extracted from these chocolates using thermal methods of food analysis, such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry (TG). The profile of fatty acids in the fat extracted from the chocolates was also determined. The presence of three fatty acids (palmitic P, stearic S, and oleic O) constituting triacylglycerols—SOS, POP, POS, POO, and SOO—was observed in all the samples. The presence of linoleic acid (L) was also found, which forms triacylglycerols such as PLP and PLS. The researched chocolates were characterized by a diverse composition of fatty acids. In all the obtained DSC melting curves of fats, the presence of endothermic peaks was observed. The peaks, appearing at negative temperatures, may be caused by the transition of low-melting triacylglycerols. The differences between the melting curves for the obtained dark chocolate fats may have resulted from the presence of less stable polymorphic forms of cocoa butter. Based on the shape of the TG and DTG curves, it could be possible to indicate the adulteration of chocolates.

Inconsistencies are evident within the literature regarding the effect of cocoa consumption on anthropometric outcomes. To address the influence of cocoa consumption on weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC) in overweight and obese subjects we conducted a time and dose–response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and PubMed/Medline were searched for relevant articles from inception until July 11, 2023. The random effects method meta-analysis compared changes in anthropometric outcomes in participants Results are displayed as weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95 % confidence interval (CI). 19 RCTs were included in the present meta-analysis. Cocoa consumption significantly decreased body weight (WMD: −0.26 kg, 95 % CI: −0.49 to −0.02, P = 0.028), BMI (WMD: −0.16 kg/m2, 95 % CI: −0.30 to −0.02, P = 0.021), and WC (WMD: −0.69 cm, 95 % CI: −1.35 to −0.03, p = 0.038). In subgroup analyses, cocoa consumption resulted in lowered body weight in dosages ≤20 g/day (WMD: −0.33 kg), and treatment duration ˃4 weeks (WMD: −0.35 kg). In the non-linear dose–response assessment, a negative correlation was found between cocoa consumption dose (up to 50 g/day) and changes in WC (P = 0.001) and body weight (P = 0.0007). Cocoa consumption is associated with a reduction in BMI, weight, and WC in overweight and obese subjects; however, statistically significant effects were only detected in doses less than 20 g/day and interventions longer than 4 weeks.

BACKGROUND: The development of functional foods is receiving increased recognition as a result of the general interest in healthy diets as part of a healthier lifestyle. This project sought to incorporate red beetroot in dark chocolate and investigate the effect of beetroot powder concentration and processing time on the chocolates' bioactive compound composition, antioxidant capacity, and sugar content. RESULTS: The results showed the presence of bioactive compounds such as betalains and vitamin C in the red beetroot with relatively high antioxidant capacity. The addition of beetroot powder to dark chocolate increased the majority of the bioactive compounds (e.g. catechin, epicatechin, betalains, vitamin C) while at the same time increasing the antioxidant capacity. It also resulted in a decrease in sugar content. Except for vitamin C, processing for more than 12 h had an increasing effect on the majority of the bioactive compounds. Beetroot powder incorporation at a maximum of 30% and processing for 24 h was regarded as optimal. CONCLUSION: Overall, the present study suggests that red beetroot powder could be added to dark chocolates and processed for more than 12 h to increase the bioactive compounds and overall antioxidant capacity. This research would help to diversify beetroot utilization, reduce post‐harvest losses, and improve the overall health‐promoting properties of dark chocolate for improved consumer well‐being. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In terms of sustainable and equitable food security, the world is experiencing a number of issues due to the rapid increase in population. Given their fast growth rates and ability to survive in non-arable terrain, microalgae are seen to be one of the most promising feedstocks for a sustainable and reasonably priced supply of food and fuel. Algae being a rich and reliable source of fatty acid especially Omega-3. It was decided to create a dark chocolate with 12, 14, 16, and 18% algae inclusion. As the goods' amount of algal oil increased, so did their concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. The food industry is now experiencing a dramatic uptick in the novel products, improved quality, increased productivity, decreased production, and distribution costs, increased shelf life, and increased competition as a result of the gradual elimination of trade barriers and the expansion of global markets. Success in the face of these new challenges will depend heavily on the industry's capacity to get more precise information about consumer perceptions and attitudes that pertain to food items, and the most effective ways to quantify and apply them. The first stage in doing it is sensory evaluation. The product containing 18% algal oil had a more pronounced fishy taste and a stronger aroma. Ninety two percent of the sensory panel approved of the chocolate containing algae oil. Every sample had an acceptability index more than 70%. At the amounts examined in this study, algae oil might be added to the dark chocolate to enhance any potential health advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is among the most frequent chronic diseases in virtually all countries, posing a global health threat. Therefore, Preventive interventions are critical for reducing the enormous burden of diabetes. Flavanols may assist people with metabolic disorders to maintain glucose homeostasis by inhibiting digestive enzymes and glucose transporters. Green Tea (GT) and cocoa have gotten much attention since their flavanols are high. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of polyphenols from GT and cocoa (>4 weeks) on reducing the incidence of complications and improving glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity in adult patients with T2DM through outcomes Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG), Fasting Blood Insulin (FBI), Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). METHODOLOGY: An electronic research programme was applied, using different databases (including Web of Science, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Reviews) to find studies that have evaluated the impact of polyphenols from GT and cocoa on reducing the incidence of complications and improving glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity in adult patients with T2DM. Articles published between 2005 and 2021 in English were selected. RESULTS: 15 and 7 studies involved 738 participants on GT (348 male/390 female). In contrast, the ones focused on cocoa had 331 participants (83 male/ 248 female) with T2DM aged 18–65 years, and a BMI range of 25–34.9 kg/m2 was identified and included in the present review. 43 and 27% of studies were low-risk bias in cocoa and GT, respectively. The results of the meta-analysis showed no significant difference in FBG levels following GT and cocoa consumption compared to the control group (SMD: –0.08; 95% CI: –0.43 to 0.28; P = 0.68 and SMD: –0.65; 95% CI, –1.40 to 0.10; P = 0.09, respectively). Also, the results showed no significant difference for GT and cocoa intervention (SMD: 0.18; 95% CI: –0.27 to 0.64; P = 0.43 and SMD: –0.80; 95% CI: –1.92 to 0.31; P = 0.16, respectively). In addition, the results of the HbA1c analysis showed no significant reduction after GT and cocoa consumption (SMD: –0.41; 95% CI: –0.85 to 0.03; P = 0.07 and SMD, –0.37; 95% CI, –0.77 to 0.04; P = 0.08, respectively). There was no evidence that GT and cocoa interventions effectively improved HOMA-IR (SMD: 0.02; 95% CI: –0.16 to 0.20; P = 0.80 and SMD, –1.65; 95% CI, –3.77 to 0.46; P = 0.13, respectively CONCLUSION: The evidence shows that the short-term administration of cocoa and GT did not significantly reduce the FBG, FBI, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR levels in adult patients with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cacao polyphenol-enriched dark chocolate may have beneficial effects on human health, such as facilitating maintaining good performance in long-lasting cognitive tasks. This study examined the effects of dark chocolate intake on improving brain function during cognitive tasks using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). In this randomized, single-blinded, crossover, and dose-comparison study, 26 healthy middle-aged participants ingested dark chocolate (25 g) either with a low concentration (LC) (211.7 mg) or a high concentration (HC) (635 mg) of cacao polyphenols. Thereafter, their brain activities were analyzed during continuous and effortful cognitive tasks relevant to executive functioning using fMRI in two consecutive 15 min sessions (25 and 50 min after ingestion). We observed significant interaction effects between chocolate consumption and brain activity measurement sessions in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and left inferior parietal lobule. After HC chocolate ingestion, these areas showed lower brain activity in the second session than in the first session; however, these areas showed higher activity in the second session after LC chocolate ingestion. These results suggest that cacao polyphenol-enriched dark chocolate enhances the efficient use of cognitive resources by reducing the effort of brain activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Menopause is a critical stage in a woman’s life in which cardiometabolic alterations appear, such as insulin resistance or a predisposition to visceral fat deposits, leading to an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases (R-CMBs). New strategies to reduce the R-CMBs in postmenopausal women using natural compounds without adverse effects are desirable. In this sense, plant-based diets rich in fruits and vegetables could play a fundamental role due to the high content of bioactive compounds found in these diets, such as (poly)phenols, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasodilator properties. The aim of this research was to carry out a dietary trial to evaluate the effect of the daily intake of different (poly)phenol-rich foods (PP-rich foods) for 2 months on the modulation of the main cardiometabolic risk biomarkers of postmenopausal women. The results showed a slight improvement in blood pressure (BP), lipid profile and oxidative stress, endothelial function and inflammatory biomarkers. These findings suggest that daily consumption of PP-rich foods alleviated the R-CMBs of postmenopausal women by reducing the oxidative stress and, thus, the risk of cardiovascular events; however, the magnitude of the cardioprotective effect of (poly)phenols depends on inter-individual variability.

Copyright of Journal of Sports Sciences Research / Spor Bilimleri Araştırmaları Dergisi is the property of Journal of Sport Sciences Researches / Spor Bilimleri Arastirmalari Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: There are no specific regulations governing the labeling of dark chocolate or its bioactive component quantities. The main alkaloid of the cocoa bean is theobromine. Chocolate is by far the main source of theobromine in the Western diet. To assess their effects on health, it is essential to understand the ingredients and composition of biologically active substances in chocolates available in stores. Objective: The present study aims to analyze the theobromine contents of commercial chocolates and evaluates the association between the labeled cocoa mass percentage (%), theobromine contents and evaluated non-fat cocoa solid (NFCS) parameters of dark chocolates. Materials and Methods: Several types of chocolates (bittersweet dark [60-80% cacao], semisweet dark [45-50% cacao], milk chocolate, and chocolate spreads) were analyzed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry with duplicate measurements. Samples (n=20) typically 6 months apart from production dates have been selected. Results: Overall range for theobromine content varied from 1.9 to 9.6 mg/g. Of all, bittersweet dark chocolate had the highest (8.1±1.01 mg/g) concentration of theobromine in comparison to semisweet dark chocolate (6.4±0.79 mg/g). Milk-chocolate (2.7±0.26 mg/g) and chocolate-spreads (2.7±0.81 mg/g) had the lowest concentration of theobromine. A strong correlation between theobromine content and declared cocoa solid % was found in both of the dark chocolate categories (r = 0.523, p = 0.081 and r = 0.771, p = 0.009 for semisweet and bittersweet dark chocolate, respectively). NFCS indicated a correlation between the labeled cocoa solid % (R2 = 0.766) and the calculated cocoa solid % (R2 = 0.803) in dark chocolates. A high correlation has also been determined between the labeled cocoa solid percentage and the calculated cacao solid percentage in dark chocolates (R2 = 0.902). Conclusion: The labeled content of the cocoa mass of dark chocolates could be a preliminary information for the consumer about theobromine capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most important factors determining human health, as well as the duration and quality of life, are lifestyle and nutrition. Improper nutrition, frequent stress cause different diseases. In this regard, over the past decades, the need for micronutrients and other physiologically necessary substances has increased. Currently, functional nutrition is becoming increasingly important, thanks to which the human body, along with food, receives necessary proteins, vitamins, flavonoids, macroand microelements, and other biologically active substances. Functional foods are beneficial to human health due to their high content of functional ingredients. They help to increase the resistance to various diseases and to normalize many physiological processes in the human body.The use of non-traditional and little-known raw materials creates an opportunity to solve the problem of producing high-quality functional food products. One of the types of such vegetable raw materials are hemp seeds, which are characterized by a high content of biologically active substances. This creates prospects for the use of hemp seeds in the production of functional products.The article presents the developed functional confectionery products – dark and milk chocolates with hemp seeds. The optimal ratio of filling components for chocolates has been selected. The effect of the concentration of ingredients on the quality of bitter and milk chocolate has been studied. Recipes and technologies for dark and milk chocolates with hemp seed filling have been developed.The carried out theoretical and experimental studies has confirmed the effectiveness of the use of hemp seeds and allowed the development of new recipes for chocolates. The product launch contributes to the expansion of the range of functional confectionery products.

Dysmenorrhea, menstrual pain often experienced by women of reproductive age, including teenage girls, can cause discomfort and hinder daily activities, necessitating treatment. Chocolate contains copper, which synthesizes neurotransmitters like collagen and endorphins, serving as an analgesic and natural sedative to alleviate pain. This study aimed to assess the effect of dark chocolate on reducing dysmenorrhea in adolescents. This study employed a quasi-experimental research design and was conducted over six months at a polytechnic in Bandung. Pain intensity was measured using a standardized instrument known as the WALIDD score. A total of forty students with primary dysmenorrhea participated in the study, selected through purposive sampling, and were divided into a treatment group and a control group. The independent variables included the administration of dark chocolate, while the dependent variable was the intensity of menstrual pain in students with primary dysmenorrhea. Data were analyzed using an independent t-test. The intervention group, which received education on menstruation and dark chocolate, exhibited a significant reduction in dysmenorrhea pain as early as the second day, with a p-value of

Although, stress causes brain dysfunction, consumption of dark chocolate (DC) has positive effects on brain functions. The current study investigated the impact of different DC dietary patterns on synaptic potency and plasticity in the hippocampal CA1 area, as well as food intake and body weight in rats under chronic isolation stress. Thirty-five rats were allocated into five groups of control, stress, and stress accompanied by three DC dietary patterns (stress-compulsory, -optional, and -restricted DC). The stressed rats on a compulsory diet only received DC and the ones on an optional diet received unlimited chow and/or DC. Also, the stressed rats on a restricted diet each received chow freely and only 4 g DC daily. Subsequently, the slope and amplitude of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) were assessed based on the Input-Output (I/O) curves and after the longterm potentiation (LTP). Moreover, food intake and body weight were measured for all groups. The fEPSP slope and amplitude in the I/O curves and after LTP decreased significantly in the stress group compared to the control group. Although the slope and amplitude both enhanced non-significantly in the optional DC diet, these parameters changed significantly in both compulsory and restricted DC dietary patterns compared to the stress group. Also, food intake and body weight decreased significantly in all DC groups. The compulsory and restricted DC dietary patterns reversed the harmful effects of chronic isolation stress on the hippocampal synaptic potency, plasticity, learning, and memory. All DC diets, especially compulsory and restricted ones, reduced food intake and body weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The green solvents and eco‐extraction methods are gaining increasing interest in chemical analysis for bioactive compounds in food matrices. Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) developed as a greener and more sustainable alternative to organic solvents, owing to their non‐toxic, highly stable, and biodegradation‐friendly nature. DES application for polyphenols and antioxidant compounds extraction in dark chocolate samples has been evaluated in an integrated study for sustainability assessment, based on multivariate analysis and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology. A green extraction method based on DES was proposed testing different HBA:HBD pairs (ChCl:Fru, ChCl:Teg, Bet:Fru, and Bet:Teg). DES Bet:Fru resulted in the highest extraction yield in terms of both total polyphenols (0.34–3.37 g GAE/100 g) and flavonoids (1.13–8.32 g RUT/100 g), P < 0.05. Furthermore, the environmental performances of green and conventional solvents (MeOH:H2O, H2O, and MeOH) were evaluated by applying a comparative LCA (c‐LCA). The c‐LCA study highlighted that conventional extraction for polyphenols in dark chocolate was 60% more impactful than DES. DES pairs analysed quantitatively lowest impacted than conventional methods, considering the macro‐categories Human Health (9.99 × 10–8 ÷ 1.54 × 10–7 DALYs), Ecosystem (2.29 × 10–10 ÷ 3.57 × 10–10 species.yr), and Resources (6.57 × 10–3 ÷ 8.96 × 10–3 USD2013). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to determine the effect of dark chocolate on C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels as one of the inflammatory factors. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar up to April of 2020. The registration number of study in PROSPERO was CRD4202020072, which was conducted over 5 eligible RCTs containing a total of 330 participants. The weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals was calculated for the pool effect size of CRP. The heterogeneity of studies was examined by Cochran's Q test and I-squared (I2) statistic. Results: Effect sizes from 330 participants based on random effect model showed no effect between consumption of dark chocolate on CRP levels compared to the control group (WMD: 0.01 mg/dl; 95% CI: −0.19, 0.22 mg/dl; P = 0.89; Cochran's Q test, Q statistic = 21.97; P < 0.001; I2 = 81.80%). The results of subgroup analysis based on intervention duration and dosage showed no significant effect on CRP levels (WMD = 0.05 mg/dl, 95% CI: −0.30, 0.42 mg/dl; P = 0.76). Meta-regression for the intervention duration (slope: −0.0033, 95% CI: −0.0089, 0.0022; P = 0.24) and dosage (slope: 0.00006, 95% CI: −0.0036, 0.0037; P = 0.97) indicated no significant relationship with the mean difference of CRP. Conclusion: The results of the present meta-analysis showed that consuming dark chocolate had no significant effect on the CRP level. More clinical trials are required with higher quality and bigger sample sizes to verify the positive impact of dark chocolate on the reduction CRP level.

About 55% of women experience dysmenorrhea. One of the foods that can reduce menstrual pain is dark chocolate. Other herbal ingredients such as turmeric, red ginger, moringa, sambiloto, and honey are also known to reduce pain. However, research on combination of dark chocolate with herbal ingredients has not been conducted. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effectiveness of dark chocolate with herbs in reducing menstrual pain. This test was conducted on 30 respondents who were divided into three groups, namely the positive control group (K), dark chocolate (C), and a combination of dark chocolate with herbs (C+H). Dark chocolate was combined with herbal ingredients consisting of turmeric, red ginger, moringa, sambiloto extract, and honey as a beverage 250 mL. The study is quantitative research with quasi-experimental method. Pain measurement using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) sheet was given before and 2 hours after treatment. The data was analyzed using paired t-test. State the results of the values obtained the combination of dark chocolate and herbs showed a significant reduction in pain before and after treatment (p

Introduction and objective Chocolate is one of the most popular food products worldwide. Sometimes the smell or consistency alone evokes a feeling of happiness among consumers. Although dark chocolate appears to be a wellknown product, there is a lot of misinformation about it, based on incomplete or outdated data which should be updated due to its growing popularity. The aim of this study was to summarize the available scientific reports and on their basis to formulate clear conclusions. Review methods Scientific research was reviewed using electronic databases, such as PubMed and Google Scholar. Brief description of the state of knowledge Bitter chocolate is a product that combines attractive organoleptic features and a valuable composition. Many reports indicate the beneficial effect of the cocoa product. Promising research results suggest that it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, metabolic and antidepressant effects. However, despite many potentially beneficial biological effects it has on the human body, the risk of undesirable effects should not be overlooked. Taking into account the content of individual ingredients or their specific action, in some cases it is recommended to limit or permanently stop the consumption of dark chocolate. Summary Currently, more data show benefits than negative consequences of consuming dark chocolate. Overall, dark chocolate appears to be a nutritional component when consumed in reasonable amounts as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

In this study, the effects of free and microcapsules extract of white tea on physicochemical properties, particle size, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), total phenolic compounds, antioxidant properties and sensory properties of dark chocolate were investigated. The white tea extract at 1, 3, 5, and 7% concentrations (based on pretreatment) was added as free and microcapsules form to the dark chocolate formulation. All experiments were measured in three replications using a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design and the results were analyzed using SPSS software. The findings indicated that the size of the microcapsules particles were in the range of 2.3-157.23 µm. The SEM examination revealed that the dark chocolate particles containing the white tea microencapsulated extract were smaller in size and more uniform compared to the control sample and sample containing free extract of white tea. Increasing the extract concentration from 1 to 7% in both free and microcapsules forms significantly increased the total phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties of the dark chocolate (p< 0.05). Regarding the results of evaluating the sensory characteristics, the samples containing 3% white tea extract and 1% white tea microencapsulated extract received the highest acceptance by the panelists. In terms of the color features, the samples containing microencapsulated extract had the highest brightness level (L*), redness level (a*), and yellowness level (b*). Increasing the amount of the free extract and white tea microcapsule increased the moisture content, however stiffness and pH showed a reverse trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Agroalimentaria is the property of Alejandro Antonio Gutierrez Socorro and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: This systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to determine the effect of dark chocolate on C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels as one of the inflammatory factors. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar up to April of 2020. The registration number of study in PROSPERO was CRD4202020072, which was conducted over 5 eligible RCTs containing a total of 330 participants. The weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals was calculated for the pool effect size of CRP. The heterogeneity of studies was examined by Cochran's Q test and I-squared (I²) statistic. Results: Effect sizes from 330 participants based on random effect model showed no effect between consumption of dark chocolate on CRP levels compared to the control group (WMD: 0.01 mg/dl; 95% CI: −0.19, 0.22 mg/dl; P = 0.89; Cochran's Q test, Q statistic = 21.97; P < 0.001; I² = 81.80%). The results of subgroup analysis based on intervention duration and dosage showed no significant effect on CRP levels (WMD = 0.05 mg/dl, 95% CI: −0.30, 0.42 mg/dl; P = 0.76). Meta-regression for the intervention duration (slope: −0.0033, 95% CI: −0.0089, 0.0022; P = 0.24) and dosage (slope: 0.00006, 95% CI: −0.0036, 0.0037; P = 0.97) indicated no significant relationship with the mean difference of CRP. Conclusion: The results of the present meta-analysis showed that consuming dark chocolate had no significant effect on the CRP level. More clinical trials are required with higher quality and bigger sample sizes to verify the positive impact of dark chocolate on the reduction CRP level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is pre-eminent in milk production and according to the estimates of the dairy industry, 50% of the comprehensive milk produced in India is processed into traditional milk products like ghee, paneer, khoa, chhana, dahi and a diverse range of milk sweetmeats. Chhana and chhana-based confections like rasogolla, ras-malai, cham-cham, etc. are highly perishable and limited research efforts have been made to increase their shelf life, resulting in a waning of dairy output in terms of value addition. So, the plenary investigation was based on the development of an improved confection utilising chhana and fruit powders as core materials, Theobroma cacao (dark chocolate) as a coating of core material, and Vaccinia oxycoccos (cranberry extract) as a natural preservative in the core material. Storage studies were performed on four different formulations marked as control, T1, T2 and T3 (described in the material/methodology section) at a storage interval of 10 days up to day 40 of refrigeration preservation. Total phenolic counts, flavonoid counts, pH and water activity of all the formulations exhibited a substantial decrease, while TBA values, TPC and YMC increased significantly with the advancement of storage interval. All the samples got the microbial counts (TPC and YMC) above the permissible limit between 30 and 40 days of storage, indicating a shelf life of 30 days versus the few days of shelf life of traditional chhanabased confections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, muscle soreness, and reductions in muscle function. Cocoa flavanols (CF) are (poly)phenols with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and thus may attenuate symptoms of EIMD. The purpose of this narrative review was to collate and evaluate the current literature investigating the effect of CF supplementation on markers of exercise-induced oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as changes in muscle function, perceived soreness, and exercise performance. Acute and sub-chronic intake of CF reduces oxidative stress resulting from exercise. Evidence for the effect of CF on exercise-induced inflammation is lacking and the impact on muscle function, perceived soreness and exercise performance is inconsistent across studies. Supplementation of CF may reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress, with potential for delaying fatigue, but more evidence is required for any definitive conclusions on the impact of CF on markers of EIMD. Graphic abstract

Background: Dark chocolate is a variant of chocolate that contain more cocoa(50%-85%) and a big concenteration of flavonoid that act as an inhibitor to some enzyme and increase antioxidant protection which could affect the level of dysmenorrhea. Objective: This study was conducted to determine the relationship between administrations of dark chocolate and dysmenorrhea level on medical student batch 2017 of Andalas University. Method: The type of research is true experiment pretest-posttest with control group that conducted in medical faculty of Andalas University with a sample size of 32. The instruments of this study were questionniare. Data was analyzed using the dependent and independent T-test. Results: The results showed that the majority of student with dysmenorrhea experiencing pain at the number 8 (28,1%) of visual analog scale. Bivariate analysis showed the value of p = 0.000 (p

Chocolate rich in cocoa is referred to as "the drink of the Gods". Originally called Theobroma cocoa, the cocoa tree" (meaning drink). Nutrient-dense flavanols are found in cocoa. Flavanols are unconjugated chemicals found in plants that comprise the group of polyphenols, which also include epicatechin, catechin, and procyanidin. Based on a ground-breaking study, eating foods high in flavonoids is linked to a lower risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and other neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and others. Nevertheless, due to research constraints and confounding variables such as study design, population size, and usage of various chocolate product types, dosages, and contents, additional large-scale human experiments are required to validate and advocate the chocolate diet. An increasing amount of research shows the beneficial effects of dark chocolate high in flavonoids, particularly on cardiac arrest, hypertension, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, inflammation, and platelet functions through many mechanisms. Eating dark chocolate lowers blood pressure, both diastolic and systolic, increases the bioactivity of nitric acid, and strengthens endothelial function. However, due to the amount of sugar it contains, it adversely impacts our health, resulting in weight gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress and inflammation play critical roles in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Dark chocolate (DC)/cocoa, as a rich source of polyphenols like flavonoids, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may confer health benefits, but findings in this context are inconsistent. This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the controlled trials (CTs) that have examined the effects of DC/cocoa on oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers in adults. Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, were searched for relevant studies through April 2024. Studies assessed C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), P-selectin, E-selectin and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in adults were included. Based on the random-effects model, we calculated WMDs, SMDs and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Sensitivity, sub-group, meta-regression and dose-response analyses were also conducted. Thirty-three eligible CTs with 1379 participants were included. All studies reported the intervention types (cocoa powder, beverages and chocolate bars) and dosage. However, sixteen studies didn't do/report testing for purity and potency by independent groups. Also, none of the studies mentioned the risk of contamination with heavy metals. Another limitation was the lack of blinding assessment in studies. DC/cocoa significantly reduced MDA (SMD: −0.69, 95 %CI: −1.17, −0.2, p = 0.005) and increased NO levels (SMD: 2.43, 95 %CI: 1.11,3.75, p < 0.001); However, it has no significant effects on the other outcomes. Greater anti-inflammatory effects occurred at higher flavonoid doses (>450 mg/day) and for shorter durations (≤4 weeks) in the non-healthy participants. Non-linear dose-response relationships between cocoa dosage and CRP level and also between flavonoid dosage and IL-6 level were observed. Based on the GRADE evaluation, just CRP and MDA results were considered as high certainty evidence and the other outcomes results were categorized as very low to moderate certainty. DC/cocoa may improve systemic oxidative status and inflammation in adults. However, further studies should be performed to determine its benefits. [Display omitted] • Thirty-three eligible CTs with 1379 participants were included. • Some studies didn't do/report testing for purity and potency by independent groups. • Dark chocolate /cocoa significantly reduced malondialdehyde and increased nitric oxide. • Significant non-linear dose-response relationships were observed between cocoa dosage and CRP; flavonoid dosage and IL-6. • Further studies with appropriate design and larger sample sizes are needed to determine the benefits of DC/cocoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of General Medicine & Health Sciences / Medycyna Ogólna i Nauki o Zdrowiu is the property of Witold Chodzki Institute of Rural Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Fortification of foods with fish oil rich in n–3 fatty acids improves the nutritional value, but creates challenges with flavor and oxidative stability, especially during storage. Pea, soy, and sunflower proteins were used in combination with whey protein or maltodextrin to encapsulate fish oil by spray-drying. The use of whey protein compared with maltodextrin as wall material improved oxidative stability of spray-dried emulsions, although the use of whey protein increased the number of observed cracks in outer shell of the particles. Non- and encapsulated oil were used in cookies and chocolates to examine flavor characteristics by generic descriptive analysis and volatile products by solid-phase microextraction with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. A long-term storage test at room temperature was conducted to evaluate the oxidative stability of the food models. Fortification changed the texture, odor, and flavor of the food models with fishy flavor being the most impactful attribute. For both food models, use of pea protein with maltodextrin resembled attributes of control the best. Fortification and encapsulation material also affected volatile profiles of food models. Both non-encapsulated oil and whey protein formulations performed well in regard to oxidative stability for both food models. Generally, the cookie model showed more potential for fortification than the chocolate one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study the volatile composition of six samples of dark chocolates varying in the cocoa roasting time (30.5, 34.5 and 38.5 min) and geographical origin (Ecuador and Ghana) was characterized by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). One hundred and twenty-one different compounds were identified using a carboxen/polydimethylsiloxane (CAR-PDMS) fiber comprising acids, alcohols, aldehydes, alkanes, esters, furans, ketones, nitrogen compounds, pyran derivatives, pyrazines, pyrroles and thiazoles. The effect of roasting time on the volatile composition of chocolates depended on their geographical origin. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to volatile composition of the six dark chocolate samples. Eight different groups of compounds were established according to the position of the aroma compounds on the PC plot and accordingly to variation among samples. Therefore, volatile compounds that appeared or disappeared during roasting of cocoa from each origin or both origins were identified.

Cocoa beans are part of the cocoa plant fruit (Theobroma cacao L.) used to prepare various products such as chocolate, cocoa butter, jelly, liqueurs, cosmetics, etc. Dark chocolate is consumed worldwide by different populations and is known for its good taste, making it one of the most favoured food products. This work aimed to determine the content of total polyphenols (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), and the antioxidant potential measured through the ability to scavenge DPPH free radicals (DPPH), ferric reducing power (FRAP), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), as well as major and trace elements contained in twelve commercially available dark chocolate samples, with cocoa content ranging from 40% to 99%. The total polyphenols content ranged between 10.55 and 39.82 mg/g GAE, while the total flavonoid content was from 10.04 to 37.85 mg/g CE. All applied antioxidant assays indicate that the sample with the highest cocoa percentage shows the greatest antioxidant activity (DPPH: 48.34% of inhibition; FRAP: 89.00 mg/g GAE; TAC: 83.86 mg/g AAE). Statistical methods were applied to establish the differences between the samples concerning TPC, TFC, DPPH, FRAP and TAC, as well as to differentiate the samples according to the mineral content. The results indicated that the differences in TPC and TFC between different samples depended on the cocoa content and the addition of dried fruit pieces. A good correlation between antioxidant potency composite index (ACI) and declared cocoa content was noticed (R2 = 0.8034), indicating that the declared percentage of cocoa is a reliable indicator for antioxidant activity of analysed dark chocolate samples. The nutritional evaluation proved that the studied chocolate samples were an excellent source of Mg, Fe, Mn and Cu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]