Media Release
March 2 2007
Uncovering the heart-healthy qualities of cocoa
The
antioxidant qualities of a group of chemicals found in cocoa, known as
flavanols, are leading researchers to investigate their potential to
improve the health of blood vessels and reduce the risk of
cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at the UniSA’s Nutritional Physiology Research Centre have found beneficial effects on blood vessel function from a daily drink of cocoa, which is rich in flavanols.
According to UniSA’s Dr Narelle Berry, the next step in their research is to investigate the benefits of cocoa for people with elevated blood pressure.
“We are investigating whether the improvements we have seen in the blood vessels ability to relax can actually lower blood pressure. We also want to quantify exactly how much cocoa a person would need to consume to experience these benefits,” Dr Berry said.
Over a seven week period, volunteers for the research project will be asked to take cocoa supplements that contain different levels of flavanols. Blood pressure will be measured using a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor.
“This is the best available technique to get a full picture of blood pressure and it is not readily available to most people, so participants will be engaged in an advanced project which should be of real personal interest,” she said.
Dr Berry said volunteers for the study would also be asked to undergo a short exercise test in which blood pressure will be monitored continuously by a Finapres® blood pressure monitor using a cuff around the finger.
“For this next important phase of our research we are looking for adults whose blood pressure is elevated but is not being treated and who are otherwise healthy,” Dr Berry said. “Women volunteering for the project must be post-menopausal.
“This is a great opportunity to volunteer for an interesting project that will have great personal benefits and at the same time can contribute to better health outcomes for the wide community.”
Anyone who fits this criteria and would like to find out more about
their blood pressure by participating in the study can telephone Narelle
or Kade on 8302 1817 and leave their details (please make sure to
identify the cocoa study when leaving the message).
Contact for interview
-
Dr Narelle Berry office (08) 8302 1817 email narelle.berry@unisa.edu.au or Prof Peter Howe, Director of the ATN Centre for Metabolic Fitness office (08) 8302 1200 email peter.howe@unisa.edu.au
Media contact
-
Michèle Nardelli office (08) 8302 0966 mobile 0418 823 673
email michele.nardelli@unisa.edu.au