2026-04-17T15:45:52Zhttps://recercat.cat/oai/request

oai:recercat.cat:2445/1525312025-12-04T21:15:56Zcom_2072_1057col_2072_478781col_2072_478917

00925njm 22002777a 4500 dc Franco Fernández, Rafael author Oñatibia Astibia, Ainhoa author Martínez-Pinilla, Eva author 2020-03-11T16:14:37Z 2020-03-11T16:14:37Z 2013-10-18 2020-03-11T16:14:38Z One may wonder why methylxanthines are so abundant in beverages used by humans for centuries, or in cola-drinks that have been heavily consumed since their appearance. It is likely that humans have stuck to any brew containing compounds with psychoactive properties, resulting in a better daily life, i.e., more efficient thinking, exploring, hunting, etc., however, without the serious side effects of drugs of abuse. The physiological effects of methylxanthines have been known for a long time and they are mainly mediated by the so-called adenosine receptors. Caffeine and theobromine are the most abundant methylxanthines in cacao and their physiological effects are notable. Their health-promoting benefits are so remarkable that chocolate is explored as a functional food. The consequences of adenosine receptor blockade by natural compounds present in cacao/chocolate are here reviewed. Palatability and health benefits of methylxanthines, in general, and theobromine, in particular, have further contributed to sustain one of the most innocuous and pleasant habits: chocolate consumption. Begudes sense alcohol Cafeïna Alcaloides Adenosina Non-alcoholic beverages Caffeine Alkaloids Adenosine Health benefits of methylxanthines in cacao and chocolate