Epicatechin: Potential Use as Anti-Obese and Anti-Periodontal Nutrient

There is an increasing interest in the use of dietary supplements and natural products for the treatment and prevention of obesity and periodontitis. Epicatechin (EC), a flavonoid abundant in cocoa, green tea, and red wine, possesses excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This review summarizes preclinical and clinical findings on the effects of EC on obesity and periodontitis.

Obesity not only leads to weight gain but also causes chronic low-level inflammation in adipose tissue. Periodontitis is an infectious disease caused by periodontal pathogens that chronically destroy periodontal tissues. Chronic inflammation leads to lifestyle-related diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and arteriosclerosis. Current literature suggests that EC can reduce inflammatory responses and improve obesity-related complications and periodontal disease status.

These findings highlight the potential use of EC in the management of obesity and periodontitis. However, direct evidence for the use of EC supplementation in the treatment of obesity and periodontitis in humans remains limited. Further well-designed controlled studies are required to confirm its efficacy.