Cardiovascular Health Effects of Flavanol Rich Chocolate

Cardiovascular Health Effects of Flavanol Rich Chocolate

In the CHOC study the investigators will examine the effect of chocolate flavanols on vascular function, inflammation, oxidative stress and markers of endothelial function. The effects of both acute consumption and prolonged consumption will be studied. The secondary objectives are to investigate if daily intake of chocolate flavanols for 4 weeks will improve the response to a high fat/high energy challenge.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male
• 45-70 years old
• BMI between 25 and 32 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Urine glucose concentrations outside normal ranges (> 0,25 g/l)
• Fasting blood glucose < 7.0 mmol/L)
• Systolic Bp > 160 mmHg or diastolic Bp > 100 mmHg
• Blood Hb values below 8.4 mmol/L
• Allergic to cow milk, dairy products or chocolate
• Vegetarian
• Tobacco smoker
• Diagnosed with any long-term medical condition (e.g., diabetes, hemophilia, cardiovascular disease, anemia, gastrointestinal disease, renal failure)