Study Title: Effects of Cacao Flavonoids in Long COVID-19 Patients with Chronic Fatigue: FLALOC, a Placebo-Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial
Citation: Levy Munguía et al., 2026 · Journal of Clinical Medicine
What the Study Found: In a placebo-controlled trial, cacao flavonoids (rich in (−)-epicatechin) significantly improved fatigue scores and quality of life in long COVID patients. The treatment reduced inflammatory markers and supported better mitochondrial function indicators. Benefits were observed over the study period without major side effects.
What this means in real life: Long COVID often involves persistent mitochondrial dysfunction in immune and muscle cells, leading to crippling fatigue. This clinical trial shows that (−)-epicatechin-rich cacao flavonoids can help restore energy and reduce inflammation in real patients. Mitochondrial support is emerging as a practical strategy for addressing the cellular energy deficit that drives long COVID symptoms.
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