Study Reveals Health Benefits of Cocoa Shells

Introduction to Cocoa Shells

A recent study highlights the significant components within cocoa shells that may help reduce inflammation and insulin resistance. Although often regarded as a waste product from chocolate production, cocoa shells contain valuable chemicals known as phenols, which are recognized for their health benefits.

Research Overview

Published in *Molecular Nutrition and Food Research*, the study conducted by researchers from Spain and the United States investigates the components of cocoa shells and their potential applications. The findings indicate that cocoa shells possess phenolic compounds similar to those found in chocolate and green tea, renowned for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Methodology

To explore the properties of these phenols, the researchers developed a water-based mixture containing three specific phenolic compounds from cocoa shells. This mixture was then used to treat adipocytes, or mouse fat cells, which exhibited damaged mitochondria, elevated inflammatory markers, and overall poor health. The treatment resulted in the repair of the mitochondria and a reduction in fat accumulation within the cells.

Effects on Inflammation

The researchers further investigated the potential of cocoa shell extract to influence interactions between fat cells and inflammatory cells known as macrophages. The accumulation of excessive fat molecules in adipocytes leads to macrophage activation, resulting in chronic inflammation that contributes to insulin resistance and glucose intolerance, eventually increasing the risk of type II diabetes.

In the study, scientists induced an inflammatory response in the fat cells through macrophage activation, which resulted in oxidative damage to the mitochondria. Upon treating these fat cells with the cocoa shell phenolic extract, they observed a reversal of this damage.

Conclusion and Implications

Dr. Rebollo-Hernanz stated, “We observed that the extract was able to maintain the mitochondria and their function, modulating the inflammatory process and maintaining the adipocytes’ sensitivity to insulin.” This suggests that the phenolic compounds in cocoa shells could play a crucial role in preventing mitochondrial dysfunction in adipose tissue.

The results of this study provide valuable insights into the potential of cocoa shell extract in reducing inflammation and its implications for health.

Reference

Rebollo‐Hernanz, M., Zhang, Q., Aguilera, Y., Martín‐Cabrejas, M.A., Gonzalez de Mejia, E. Cocoa Shell Aqueous Phenolic Extract Preserves Mitochondrial Function and Insulin Sensitivity by Attenuating Inflammation between Macrophages and Adipocytes In Vitro. *Mol Nutr Food Res*, 2019.