THE NUTRITIONAL POTENTIAL OF CHOCOLATE IN CANCER PREVENTION: A SIGNIFICANT LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Chocolate, rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols, has attracted growing interest for its potential role in cancer prevention. This Systematic Literature Review (SLR), guided by the PRISMA protocol, evaluates the nutritional potential of chocolate in cancer prevention. Comprehensive searches in Scopus and ScienceDirect identified 33 primary studies that met inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis revealed three key research domains: (1) the role of chocolate and cocoa in functional foods and health promotion, focusing on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and chemopreventive properties; (2) agricultural and biotechnological aspects affecting cocoa phytochemical profiles; and (3) dietary behaviors and public health perspectives on chocolate consumption. Findings suggest a strong association between moderate chocolate intake and reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, and cancer risk. However, inconsistencies in processing methods and dosage limit generalizability. This review highlights the need for standardized clinical trials and integrative nutritional frameworks to better utilize chocolate’s chemopreventive potential in public health and oncology.