The Randomized Controlled Cocoa-Appetite Trial

A Pilot Randomized Human Trial on The Effects of Cocoa on Appetite.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether high-flavonoid cocoa can decrease appetite in humans. In addition the study is designed to test epicatechin, a compound found in cocoa and procyanidins, a class of compounds found in cocoa, for their ability to decrease appetite in humans.

The study is a four-way randomized double-blinded crossover trial with randomization balanced for beverage and lab visit order.

Inclusion Criteria:

• stable-weight, as indicated by weight gain or loss of <2% in the past 6 months;
• engaging in only mild exercise< twice a week;
• moderate alcohol users, <2 drinks/day;
• willing to eat pizza.
• mentally and physically healthy.

Exclusion Criteria:

• smokers regular;
• frequent drinkers of coffee, tea or cola sodas, >daily;
• underweight or obese (BMI: <18.5 or >30 Kg/m2);
• allergies to chocolate, cocoa, green tea, coffee or pizza;
• using medication;
• interested in registering in the future for the course Health & Nutrition Sciences 2140, Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System, that is often taught by the PI of the proposed study