The fruit of the cocoa tree has long been known for its numerous proven health benefits, particularly as a natural source of antioxidants. According to this recent study from Northwestern University in Chicago, cocoa may enhance its reputation with active benefits against PAD.
This disease involves the blockage of an artery due to the accumulation of lipids, potentially leading to reduced or even halted blood flow. PAD can result in severe leg pain during activity or even at rest, with a notably troublesome effect of claudication.
According to the clinical trial conducted by American researchers, regular consumption of cocoa could significantly improve performance in a walking test, thanks to enhanced blood flow. This discovery could be significant, allowing for a better understanding of PAD and its treatments. Especially debilitating for walking, PAD currently lacks any completely effective treatment.
Cocoa is rich in flavanols
At the beginning of their study, researchers at Northwestern University in Chicago focused on mitochondria, crucial granules in the energy production of cells.
In addition to weakening blood flow, PAD also attacks the mitochondria present in calf muscles, contributing to difficulties in walking. Seeking an element that could improve mitochondrial health, researchers turned their attention to flavanols, plant pigments already known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Among the many plants rich in flavanols (strawberries, spinach, cauliflowers…) is the cocoa bean. The Americans thus hypothesized that cocoa could be an effective active agent against PAD by improving mitochondrial health.
Thanks to cocoa, significantly improved walking test results
To test their hypothesis, the Chicago researchers conducted a clinical trial on 44 patients over the age of 60, all suffering from PAD. The patients regularly consumed a drink containing 15 grams of cocoa for six months, three times a day.
At the final walking test, the results were conclusive: after 6 minutes, nearly 43 additional meters were achieved compared to patients who had not consumed a cocoa-based drink.
In addition to a notable improvement in mitochondrial health, researchers also observed better blood circulation, thus promoting muscular function. A muscle biopsy of the calf as well as an MRI confirmed these results. These results are particularly encouraging, although they must be confirmed by more in-depth interventional studies.
