Effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Apples Enriched-Dark Chocolate on Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Patients with Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Randomized Cross-Over Trial

摘要: Background: Endothelial dysfunction has been associated to cardiovascular outcomes in patients with risk factors. Circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play an important physiological role for their reparative potential of vascular integrity, but are numerically reduced and functionally impaired risks. This study assesses the effects Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) apple-enriched dark chocolate intake on blood levels EPCs. Methods: Thirty volunteers factors, enrolled a randomised, crossover, four-weeks trial, received solid bar (40 g/day) containing 10% EVOO or 2.5% dry apples. Urine samples were analyzed endogenous metabolites. EPCs levels, clinical data anthropometric examinations collected. Results: 26 (M/F:14/12, 51 ± 9 years age) completed study. Comparison pre-post intervention revealed significant increase EVOO-dark consumption. Most biochemical parameters not significantly modified by both chocolates. Conclusions: shows that daily consumption non fattening dose enriched improves EPCs, well known surrogate biologic marker function.