CFI

🧬 Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Muscle Function

A study involving patients with Becker muscular dystrophy found that supplementation with (−)-epicatechin led to increased levels of proteins associated with mitochondrial biogenesis and muscle regeneration. Specifically, there were elevations in markers like PGC-1α and mitofilin, as well as improvements in mitochondrial cristae abundance. These changes were accompanied by enhancements in exercise performance metrics, including decreased heart rate and plasma lactate levels during defined workloads. PMC+2PMC+2PubMed+2PMC+3PubMed+3PubMed+3

💓 Vascular Function and Nitric Oxide Production

Research indicates that (−)-epicatechin may influence vascular function by modulating nitric oxide (NO) pathways. In a study with healthy men, acute administration of 200 mg of (−)-epicatechin resulted in increased NO production and vasodilation. These effects are thought to be mediated through the stimulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). PMC+9PMC+9PMC+9PMC

🛡️ Antioxidant Properties

(−)-Epicatechin has been studied for its antioxidant capabilities. In human plasma, consumption of flavanol-rich foods containing (−)-epicatechin led to a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity and a decrease in markers of oxidative stress within a two-hour period post-ingestion. PubMed+1PubMed+1PMC+1PMC+1