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In the quest for longevity and a healthier life, scientists and health enthusiasts alike are turning their attention to a compound that not only promises to support our quest for extended youth but also offers a delicious way to achieve it: Epicatechin. Found in the cacao bean, the source of all chocolate, epicatechin is a flavonoid that has been linked to a range of health benefits, from improved heart health to enhanced muscle function. This compound’s association with longevity is not just a sweet tale but is grounded in emerging scientific research, offering a fascinating glimpse into the potential of natural compounds in promoting health and longevity.

The Science of Epicatechin

Epicatechin belongs to a class of compounds known as flavonoids, which are renowned for their antioxidant properties. These compounds help to neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting the body from oxidative stress that contributes to aging and various chronic diseases. The particular interest in epicatechin stems from its presence in cocoa beans and dark chocolate, which have been studied for their cardiovascular benefits.

Heart Health and Beyond

One of the most compelling benefits of epicatechin is its impact on heart health. Studies have shown that it can help to improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure, which are critical factors in reducing the risk of heart disease. But the benefits of epicatechin don’t stop at the heart. Research suggests that it may also enhance muscle growth and strength by stimulating muscle protein synthesis and improving blood flow to muscle tissue. This is particularly relevant for the aging population, as maintaining muscle strength is crucial for mobility and overall quality of life.

The Sweet Spot: Chocolate as a Source of Epicatechin

Now, for the part that sweetens the deal: chocolate. Not all chocolate is created equal when it comes to health benefits. Dark chocolate, with its higher cocoa content, is the best source of epicatechin. The process of making dark chocolate retains more flavonoids compared to milk chocolate or chocolate processed with alkali (dutched chocolate). Therefore, consuming moderate amounts of dark chocolate can contribute to the intake of epicatechin, alongside a balanced diet rich in other flavonoid-containing foods like fruits, vegetables, and teas.

Moderation is Key

While the idea of eating chocolate for health might sound like a dream come true, moderation is key. Dark chocolate is still calorie-dense and can contain added sugars and fats. Health experts recommend sticking to small portions (around 1 ounce) of high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to maximize the benefits of epicatechin without overindulging in calories.

Conclusion

The link between epicatechin, longevity, and the benefits of consuming dark chocolate represents a fascinating area of research that combines the pleasure of eating chocolate with potential health benefits. As we learn more about how compounds like epicatechin can influence health and aging, it becomes increasingly clear that nature offers some of the best resources for maintaining wellness into old age. So, the next time you enjoy a piece of dark chocolate, remember that it’s not just a treat for the taste buds but possibly a boon for longevity.

Robyn graduated with a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science and Master Clinical Exercise Physiology in 2019. Robyn’s pursuit has been working with injured Clients within the Workers Compensation Scheme achieving positive outcomes helping clients return to Activities of Daily Living and pre-injury work duties.

Robyn’s experience also lies across Mental Health, Metabolic domains, Cardiovascular, Respiratory / Pulmonary, Musculoskeletal and Neurological Conditions assisting Clients to improve quality of life and achieve goals.

On her days off Robyn will be found training for 10km run events or enjoying a relaxing walk or swim. Robyn is an experienced Dragon Boat Coach (Ballina Dragons) up until moving in October 2020 to buy locally in Tweed.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE?

Reduced risk of developing chronic diseases or managing the ones you may already have

Physical activity lowers the risk of many chronic conditions such as dementia, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, osteoporosis, and cancers, to name a few. As well as this, physical activity also assists in managing the symptoms of any chronic diseases you may have e.g., blood sugar control for diabetics or pain management for those with osteoarthritis.

Memory and brain function improve

Keeping a healthy body is essential to keeping a healthy mind. Regular exercise boosts oxygen to the brain and in turn can improve cognitive processing, memory recall and reaction times. These notable benefits effectively reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive decline in later life. Studies have consistently shown that exercise stimulates the human brain’s ability to maintain old and create new network connections that are vital to cognitive health. Other studies have shown that exercise increases the size of a brain structure important to memory and learning, improving spatial memory.

Reduced risk of falls

Every year, 1 in 3 people aged 65 years and over will have a fall, and falls are the most common cause of injury among older people. Physical activity improves balance and coordination and in turn can minimise the risk of falls.

Increased bone strength

As we age, the focus is addressing risk factors for frailty and falls. Bone strength effectively can be addressed through different types of exercise. Ultimately, bones become stronger when a certain amount of load is placed on them.

We improve our physical function and independence

With exercise improving muscle strength and muscle function, and reducing the risk of falls, this in turn then improves our physical function and independence as we age. Maintaining functional independence is important as we age as it provides older adults with the choice to stay at home and enjoy all aspects of their daily lives at their own pace which then has positive effects on their mental health.

We recover from illness more quickly

Just like a healthy diet, exercise can contribute to general good health and therefore to a healthy immune system. It may contribute even more directly by promoting good circulation, which allows the cells and substances of the immune system to move through the body freely and do their job efficiently.

We stay socially connected

Our ability to maintain social connections is often compromised as we age. This is mainly due to our decline in functional abilities and independence, which in turn makes it difficult to get out and maintain our social connections, often leading to feelings of loneliness and poor mental health. Group based exercise programs are a great solution to social isolation and prolonging independence, as they effectively provide a safe, supportive, and motivational environment to build self-confidence and maintain relationships with others.

If you have not exercised regularly for a long time or at all, you should consult with an accredited exercise professional or your GP.

To get you started on your exercise journey you can book a consult with our Accredited Exercise Physiologist  here or one of our Physios!

Sources: ESSA Australia

You may have seen Emma around the Studio and on the front desk – Here is a little about Emma!

Emma has a deep passion for health and movement, falling in love with martial arts in her early teens.

Forced to slow down after sustaining an injury from training, she found Pilates after working with a physiotherapist for rehabilitation.

Emma found the challenge of mind, body and breath connection to be the perfect complement to her martial arts training, changing her whole perspective on movement.

Emma decided to then pursue an education in Pilates through Polestar Pilates to understand how to heal the body through movement rehabilitation and improve sports performance.

A nature lover as well as a keen traveller, Emma spends her free time outdoors surfing, training Muay Thai and having adventures with her two young boys.