3.1. Participants
irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, diarrhea
ADVERSE EFFECTS, IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
Interest was expressed by over 700 females, of whom 105 fulfilled the inclusion (except HOMA-IR) criteria and undertook a medical screening. Forty-four demonstrated HOMA-IR > 1.5 and were randomized into either the HFC or low-flavanol cocoa (LFC) group, with four withdrawing due to adverse effects, which were possibly related to the drinks, though not clearly related to the intake of cocoa flavanols per se, as adverse effects were reported in both groups (1× exacerbation of irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea (LFC beverage), 3× headaches (reported in both LFC and HFC)). Eight others withdrew due to changes in circumstances (