Effects of cocoa flavanols on muscle health and performance in patients with peripheral artery disease.
Official title: COCOA PAD II: Effect of Cocoa Flavanols on the Gut Microbiome and Functional Performance
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10811104 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether cocoa flavanols, which come from cocoa beans, can help improve walking and muscle health for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) over six months, while also checking how they might affect gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $486,611 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG081706-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10811104 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with peripheral artery disease who experience mobility issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have peripheral artery disease or those with contraindications to cocoa flavanol consumption may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cocoa flavanols, derived from cocoa beans, can improve muscle function and blood flow in patients suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD). The study will involve a multi-center, double-blinded trial where participants will receive either cocoa flavanols or a placebo, and their walking distance and muscle health will be monitored over six months. Additionally, the research will explore how these flavanols may positively influence gut microbiota, which could enhance their therapeutic effects. By analyzing various health metrics, including muscle biopsies and blood flow measurements, the study aims to provide insights into the potential benefits of dietary supplementation with cocoa flavanols for PAD patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary interventions that significantly improve mobility and quality of life for patients with peripheral artery disease.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary evidence suggests that similar approaches using dietary supplements have shown promise, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Polonsky, Tamar S. — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Polonsky, Tamar S.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.