The results of the research were presented at the first and second international symposiums of chocolate and cocoa nutrition in Japan .
One of the researchers looked at the antioxidant activity of the polyphenol CMP. Active oxygen produced in the body has been shown to be a factor in cancer, arteriosclerosis and diabetes and research is looking at ways of suppressing active oxygen. The polyphenol CMP found in cocoa beans has been found to:
Suppress active oxygen.
To inhibit the actions of mutagenic compounds that initiate cancer by fragmenting cells, to inhibit the oxidation of LDL and so possibly reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis.
Have a strong inhibitory effect on rheumatoid factors and the production of inflammatory cells.
To inhibit the production of IgE - an immuno globulin that exacerbates atopic dermatitis and asthma.
Early research has also found the polyphenol from cocoa mass to be effective in suppressing the excess activity of the T-cells in the immune system, indicating the possibility of providing a means of treating many of the diseases associated with immuno disorders.
Experiments also indicated that the polyphenol CMP in cocoa mass inhibited the adverse effects of stress.
Another researcher found that cocoa mass was about 17% dietary fibre, some 60% of which was lignin, a substance known to inhibit blood pressure and cholesterol increases. (1)
(1) For more Information go to the Article published by International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) http://www.icco.org/projects/japan.htm
