Effects of cocoa consumption on biochemical parameters, body composition and DNA damage in patients with resistant hypertension: a pilot study

Introduction and objectives: Resistant Hypertension (RH) has a prevalence of 10 to 30%, and its pathophysiology has been related to a hyperactivity of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System, excess circulating aldosterone, activation of the sympathetic nervous system, arterial stiffness and vascular remodeling. Cocoa has interesting repercussions on cardiovascular health, improving biochemical parameters, body composition, and possibly protecting against DNA damage. This work aimed to investigate the effect of cocoa powder consumption on DNA damage, biochemical parameters and body composition in patients with RH. Methods: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. The IG (n=6) received 30g/day of cocoa powder. The CG (n=6) received 30g/day of maltodextrin. Biochemical analyzes and anthropometric measurements were performed at baseline (T0), at 30 days (T30) and 60 days (T60). At T0 and T60, bioimpedance and DNA damage analyzes were performed using the Comet Assay. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the GraphPad Prism software. When applicable, a two-way ANOVA test was performed. Results presented as mean and standard error/deviation. Significant difference when p ≤0.05. Results: There was a tendency to decrease HbA1c (p =0.0531) in the IG (5.325±0.306) in relation to the CG (6.520±0.386), at T30. We observed a trend towards attenuation of DNA damage, in class 1, of the IG (T0 21.75 – T60 10.50), and this is shown to be the opposite in the CG (T0 7.17 - T60 14.33). Conclusion(s): Cocoa supplementation in individuals with RH was beneficial in reducing HbA1c levels. Cocoa appears to add some DNA damage class 1 protection in individuals with RH.