Impact of Polyphenol-Rich Chocolate on Microbial Diversity and Human Health: A Comprehensive Review

Background: Compared to many other foods, cocoa and chocolate stand out for their high concentrations of polyphenols, particularly catechins, anthocyanidins, and procyanidins. These compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory properties that can confer multiple health benefits. This present study has been undertaken to assess the effects of polyphenol- rich chocolate consumption on various aspects of human health, including mood, cognition, cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, immune function, gut microbiota, and cancer risk. The high polyphenolic content in dark chocolates improves endothelial function, inhibits platelet aggregation, lowers blood pressure, enhances insulin sensitivity, etc. Cocoa polyphenols have been found to augment cognitive performance due to their ability to modulate gut microbiota. Potential antidepressant and anticarcinogenic activities were also reported. Objective: The present study aimed to identify the impact of polyphenol-rich chocolate on human health. Methods: Electronic searches were carried out using the databases viz. Google, Google Scholar, and PubMed for the study. The search was restricted for a period of 48 years, ranging from 1980 - 2022, to make it more systematic and concise. The obtained research and review articles were thoroughly studied and analyzed to present a comprehensive review. Findings: The findings of the present study mainly focus on the impact of polyphenols on human health, especially cognitive status. Evidence indicates that polyphenol-rich dark chocolate might offer numerous advantages for cardiovascular and metabolic health, but its effects on cognition, mental health, gut microbiota, and cancer risk need to be studied further. More research, including animal experiments and human trials, is needed to understand the health impact and optimal dosages of dark chocolate. Understanding chocolate’s therapeutic benefits can open new avenues for human well-being. Conclusion: The complex relationship between chocolate and emotion via the gut-brain axis has been discussed. From the momentary sensory pleasures to the intriguing interplay between cravings and comfort-seeking behaviors, chocolate has a unique place in the realm of emotional indulgence.