Mars applies gold standard scientific methods to its cocoa
flavanol research to achieve a high level of scientific rigor, including a comprehensive program spanning analytical to human clinical trials, collaboration with leading global scientists and publication in the most prestigious health and science journals.
The
flavanol and flavonol contents of each extract were determined spectrophotometrically at 640 nm and 360 nm, respectively (Treutter 1989; Mazza et al.
The bad news is that this study uses a specially produced
flavanol rich chocolate, so normal dark chocolate won't give you the same effect.
(-)-Epicatechin acts like a prodrug, since these effects involve O-methylation of the
flavanol and are attributed to apocynin-like inhibition of endothelial NADPH oxidase.
Choxi+ Minibars have been designed to supply all the
flavanol antioxidants that people need without tempting anyone to eat more chocolate than they really should.
A DELICIOUS 25g Choxi+ Minibar contains just 136 calories and provides a whole day's supply of
flavanol antioxidants.
They found that the beverage, which contained much higher than normal levels of
flavanol compounds, significantly improved the function of arteries.
"When chocolate manufacturers make confectionery, the natural cocoa solids can be darkened and the
flavanols, which are bitter, removed, so even a dark-looking chocolate can have no
flavanol.
For CocoaVia, Mars uses cocoa powder specially processed to maximize
flavanol content.
The steady growth of the dark chocolate segment is due to several factors, including the changing palate of American consumers as they seek new flavors and textures, combined with increased consumer awareness of the benefits of
flavanol antioxidants.
The higher the percentage of cacao in the mix, the higher the
flavanol content, and the greater the health benefits.