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Chocolate’s dark secret . (It’s not really dark). Benjamin A Tipton KINE 628. A Brief History. The Aztecs and Mayans were onto something Immediately popular in Europe First chocolate bars were made in the end of the 18 th century They’ve been popular since. The Problem Today.
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Chocolate’s dark secret. (It’s not really dark) Benjamin A Tipton KINE 628
A Brief History • The Aztecs and Mayans were onto something • Immediately popular in Europe • First chocolate bars were made in the end of the 18th century • They’ve been popular since
The Problem Today Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the US and is linked to overeating and sedentary lifestyles but may be reduced by chronic dark chocolate consumption
An Unlikely Solution Chocolate has been shown to • Reduce oxidative stress • Reduce blood pressure • Decrease LDL oxidization • Increase endothelial function • Associated with improved cognition • Improve mood • Taste delicious!
Important Micronutrients in Chocolate Chocolate is a rich source of highly bioavailable flavanols, which have many cardiovascular benefits. • Powerful antioxidant • Reduce inflammation • Enhances NO bioactivity • Reduce blood pressure • Reduces LDL and TC
Additional Goodness • Caffeine • Theobromine • Magnesium • Calcium • Potassium • Iron
The Chocolate Athlete • Higher pre-exercise insulin • Improved blood glucose maintenance • Increased plasma free fatty acid • Improved vasodilation • Attenuates exercise BP increase • Tastes delicious
When and how much? • When you want to treat yourself • 2 hours before exercise • One to two ounces a day
In Conclusion • Naturally occurring • Nutritionally dense • Historically sound • Provides a plethora of health benefits
References • Fernandez-Murga L, Tarin JJ, Garcia-Perez MA, Cano A. The Impact of Chocolate on cardiovascular health. Maturitas, 2011 69:312-321 • Davison G, Callister R, Williamson G, Cooper KA, Gleeson M. The effect of acute pre-exercise dark chocolate consumption on plasma antioxidant status, oxidative stress and immunoendocrine responses to prolonged exercise. European Journal of Nutrition, 2012 51:69-79 • Tokede OA, Gaziano JM, Djousse L. Effects of cocoa products/dark chocolate on serum lipids: a meta-analysis. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2011 65:879-886