What are Flavonoids?
Flavonoids belong to a group of compounds that have antioxidant activity. Research shows that antioxidants may help cells reduce damage caused by free radicals. The presence of flavonoids in plants is dependent upon several factors including the degree of ripeness, processing and storage.
Flavonoids in Chocolate
There are two types of procyanidins present in cocoa; monomeric and oligomeric. Cocoa and chocolate are abundant in the higher oligomeric procyanidins.
Flavonoids’ Potential Health Effects
Some studies suggest that high intakes of flavonoids are associated with the maintenance of cardiovascular health.
Other studies have shown that cocoa flavonoids and certain chocolates may increase low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation as well as modulate platelet activation, which may positively affect the balance between certain hormones.
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