%0 Journal Article
%T Flavan-3-ols and Vascular Health: Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of Action.
%A Godos J
%A Romano GL
%A Laudani S
%A Gozzo L
%A Guerrera I
%A Dominguez Azpíroz I
%A Martínez Diaz R
%A Quiles JL
%A Battino M
%A Drago F
%A Giampieri F
%A Galvano F
%A Grosso G
%J Nutrients
%V 16
%N 15
%D 2024 Jul 30
%M 39125353
%F 6.706
%R 10.3390/nu16152471
%X Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. A healthy diet rich in plant-derived compounds such as (poly)phenols appears to have a key role in improving cardiovascular health. Flavan-3-ols represent a subclass of (poly)phenols of great interest for their possible health benefits. In this review, we summarized the results of clinical studies on vascular outcomes of flavan-3-ol supplementation and we focused on the role of the microbiota in CVD. Clinical trials included in this review showed that supplementation with flavan-3-ols mostly derived from cocoa products significantly reduces blood pressure and improves endothelial function. Studies on catechins from green tea demonstrated better results when involving healthy individuals. From a mechanistic point of view, emerging evidence suggests that microbial metabolites may play a role in the observed effects. Their function extends beyond the previous belief of ROS scavenging activity and encompasses a direct impact on gene expression and protein function. Although flavan-3-ols appear to have effects on cardiovascular health, further studies are needed to clarify and confirm these potential benefits and the rising evidence of the potential involvement of the microbiota.