Abstract
Dark chocolate, a processed form of cacao seeds obtained from Theobroma cacao has been reported to possess progressive effects on cardiovascular system. A combination of factors such as high blood pressure, high level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high triglycerides level, low level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), high blood glucose level and central obesity are known to augment the risk of cardiovascular diseases. These factors are together known as ‘metabolic syndrome’. Dark chocolate has a role in preventing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) owing to metabolic syndrome. The beneficial secret of dark chocolate lies in its composition, which contains a group of polyphenolic compounds known as flavonoids. The possible mechanism of these flavonoids may include - reducing the oxidative stress, increasing the endothelial prostacyclin release, enhancing the endothelial function, increasing the sensitivity of insulin receptors, inhibiting the lipid oxidation and inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). Considerable studies have illustrated the potential health benefits of dark chocolate, but the results were obtained from interm studies. However, larger long-term trials are needed before one can truly determine the positive impact of dark chocolate consumption on cardiovascular health. Hence, present review was carried out to evaluate the role of dark chocolate in minimizing the risk of cardio-metabolic syndrome.
