Issue 13, 2024

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials on the health effects of chocolate enriched/fortified/supplemented with functional components

Abstract

The most significant contributor to global mortality are cardiovascular diseases. Dietary factors significantly impact the risk, advancement, and treatment of cardiometabolic conditions. Chocolate, known for its adaptability and capacity to stimulate pleasure centers, emerges as a promising vehicle for integrating different bioactive elements. This systematic review analyzed 10 randomized controlled trials investigating the health effects of consuming enriched, fortified, or supplemented chocolate. These trials varied in chocolate intake amounts (ranging from 5 to 101 g day−1), incorporated bioactive components (co-crystalized astaxanthin, lycopene, wood-based phytosterol–phytostanol mixture, canola sterol esters, etc.), and duration (from 2 weeks to 1 year). Some enriched chocolates were found to reduce total and LDL cholesterol and influence markers of oxidative damage, inflammation, immune function, and skin parameters. However, certain trials showed a minimal impact on health outcomes. Therefore, while enriched chocolate holds promise as a carrier for beneficial bioactive compounds, rigorous scientific inquiry and methodological rigor are crucial to fully substantiate these claims. Comprehensive evaluations covering cardiovascular health, metabolic function, immune response, and other aspects are needed to understand its potential benefits and limitations. Advancing robust research initiatives could help realize the full potential of enriched chocolate in promoting human health and well-being.

Graphical abstract: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials on the health effects of chocolate enriched/fortified/supplemented with functional components

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
04 4 2024
Accepted
05 6 2024
First published
12 6 2024

Food Funct., 2024,15, 6883-6899

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials on the health effects of chocolate enriched/fortified/supplemented with functional components

O. Frumuzachi, M. Babotă, C. Tanase and A. Mocan, Food Funct., 2024, 15, 6883 DOI: 10.1039/D4FO01574F

To request permission to reproduce material from this article, please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

If you are an author contributing to an RSC publication, you do not need to request permission provided correct acknowledgement is given.

If you are the author of this article, you do not need to request permission to reproduce figures and diagrams provided correct acknowledgement is given. If you want to reproduce the whole article in a third-party publication (excluding your thesis/dissertation for which permission is not required) please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

Read more about how to correctly acknowledge RSC content.

Social activity

Spotlight

Advertisements