Understanding Flavanols and Heavy Metal Content in Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Products: A Guide by Dr. Tod Cooperman

By: ConsumerLab.com

In this video, Dr. Tod Cooperman, the president of ConsumerLab.com, guides viewers through testing processes used on dark chocolate bars, cocoa powders, nibs, and supplements that contain high flavanol levels. The main focus is on the presence of heavy metals like cadmium, a kidney toxin. ConsumerLab tests these products for flavanol content and potential contaminants. The health benefits of flavanols, such as relaxation of blood vessels, slight blood pressure reduction, short-term memory and cognition improvement, and mild skin benefits, are noted.

Dr. Cooperman emphasizes the role of the manufacturing process and its impact on flavanol levels in products. 'Dutched' or alkalinized cocoa powder, often indicated by its rich, dark chocolate color, has significantly reduced flavanol levels compared to its non-Dutched counterpart. Nevertheless, it is possible to find cocoa powder with decent flavanol levels and low cadmium content. It's cautioned that cumulative consumption of cadmium could be harmful, with recommendations not to exceed one cup of cocoa powder per day unless specifics about its cadmium content are known. For substantial health benefits, a daily flavanol consumption of at least 200-900 milligrams is suggested.

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