Regulation Of Apolipoprotein Is Key to Cardiovascular Benefits Of Cocoa

The positive effects of adding cocoa to the diet have been generating increasing interest recently, with studies showing potential benefits for heart, skin and brain health. With respect to cocoa and cardiovascular health, Japanese scientists believe they have uncovered the mechanism: cocoa’s ability to boost high-density lipoprotein (HDL)—or good cholesterol—by increasing levels of apolipoprotein A1 (Apo-A1), a compound the human body needs in order to manufacture HDL. Cacao liquor—high in antioxidant-rich polyphenols, and a main ingredient in both cocoa powder and chocolate—is the agent responsible. Evidence suggests that adding dark chocolate to a diet increases HDL and slows or prevents LDL oxidation in healthy subjects. Further, this study found that, in healthy subjects, daily intake of cocoa powder increased HDL levels and decreased levels of LDL.