EPICATECHIN

Epicatechin is a flavanol compound naturally present in cocoa, green tea, and berries. It has been researched for its antioxidant properties and its potential to support various physiological functions. Epicatechin helps neutralize free radicals, which are known to cause oxidative stress, and supports cellular health. It has been shown to influence nitric oxide production, which plays a role in promoting healthy blood flow. Studies suggest that epicatechin may also support glucose metabolism and muscle physiology through mechanisms such as myostatin modulation and protein synthesis enhancement, areas that require further clinical investigation for confirmation of its effects.

Research has indicated that epicatechin may interact with pathways related to muscle physiology. Myostatin is a protein involved in regulating muscle growth, and some studies suggest that epicatechin may influence myostatin signaling, a pathway associated with muscle development and adaptation.¹

Epicatechin is also involved in supporting protein synthesis, which is critical for muscle repair and maintenance. Preliminary research has indicated a potential benefit for those engaging in resistance training or exercise by supporting muscle adaptation and recovery.² Additionally, epicatechin has been observed to influence skeletal muscle contractility and energy production by interacting with cellular pathways such as calcium release and mitochondrial biogenesis.³

Epicatechin has been studied for its role in supporting the body’s production of nitric oxide (NO) through its interaction with endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). NO is involved in vascular function, contributing to the relaxation of blood vessels and promoting healthy blood flow. Research suggests that this mechanism may support cardiovascular and cognitive function.⁴

Epicatechin demonstrates antioxidant activity through multiple mechanisms. It directly neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), reducing oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, it may enhance the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, which further supports the body’s defense against oxidative damage.⁵

1. Walker DK, Dickinson JM, Timmerman KL, et al. Exercise, amino acids, and aging in the control of human muscle protein synthesis. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011;43(12):2249-2258. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e318223b037

2. Gutierrez-Salmean G, Ciaraldi TP , Nogueira L, et al. Effects of (-)-epicatechin on molecular modulators of skeletal muscle growth and differentiation. J Nutr Biochem. 2014;25(1):91-94. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2013.09.010

3. Gutiérrez-Salmeán G, Ortiz-Vilchis P , V acaseydel CM, Rubio-Gayosso I, Meaney E, Villarreal F, Ramírez-Sánchez I, Ceballos G. Acute effects of an oral supplement of (-)-epicatechin on postprandial fat and carbohydrate metabolism in normal and overweight subjects. Food Funct. 2014 Mar;5(3):521-7. doi: 10.1039/c3fo60416k. PMID: 24458104; PMCID: PMC3947792.

4. Rassaf T, Rammos C, Hendgen-Cotta UB, et al. V asculoprotective effects of dietary cocoa flavanols in patients on hemodialysis: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2016;11(1): 108-118. doi: 10.2215/CJN.04030415

5. Higginbotham S, Zhang ZF, Lee IM, et al. Dietary flavonoids and the risk of colorectal cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2005;14(4): 913-918. doi: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-04-0688