Cocoa compounds have various uses , it can be marketed as functional food ingredients, or even synthesized for use in pharmaceuticals.
Researchers now say they have been able to identify the molecular structure of flavonols found in nature and now have an impressive library of different flavonols. They also say that they are able to synthesize not only those found in nature but also compounds tailored to specific needs.Several studies in recent years have demonstrated that the flavonols found in cocoa and dark chocolate have heart health benefits and new work is beginning to elucidate the mechanisms for this action. Latest research indicates a possible benefit on brain health, as flavonols boost blood flow to certain regions of the brain.
Researchers who presented their latest findings on cocoa flavonols have made it very clear that the research has little to do with chocolate as they feel that people should not get the wrong message that all chocolate products have these benefits. Although Cereal Bars and flavonol –enriched drinks containing plant sterols for lowering cholesterol levels are being tested for almost a year now researchers feel that more research and studies have to been done before such products may be made available to the public .
