The effects of cocoa flavanols on indices of muscle recovery and exercise performance: a narrative review

Abstract Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, soreness, reductions in function. Cocoa flavanols (CF) are (poly)phenols antioxidant anti-inflammatory effects thus may attenuate symptoms of EIMD. The purpose this narrative review was to collate evaluate the current literature investigating effect CF supplementation on markers exercise-induced as well changes function, perceived exercise performance. Acute sub-chronic intake reduces resulting from exercise. Evidence for inflammation lacking impact soreness performance inconsistent across studies. Supplementation reduce stress, potential delaying fatigue, but more evidence required any definitive conclusions Graphic abstract