Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Catechins, which are polyphenolic compounds, are mainly present in tea, cocoa, and certain fruits, and they have been shown to have a positive impact on health particularly related to cardiovascular disease (CVD). This review article analyses the mechanisms whereby catechins are likely to have a protective effect on the heart through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-lipidemic activities. In vitro studies, animal studies and clinical trials have shown that catechins enhance vascular endothelial functions, decrease oxidative stress, inhibit platelet activity and activity related to lipid metabolism and possibly also modulate blood pressure and atherosclerotic changes. While It looks promising, there are gaps across studies concerning the recommend dosage, bioavailability and individual response to the metabolism which explains the differences. This has implications of catechins in relation to prevention and management of CVD as functional compounds, while there are some aspects that still need to be assessed.