(-)Epicatechin

Epicatechin is a flavanol found in Green Tea and Dark Chocolate. It is used for the purpose of myostatin inhibition and muscle growth.

Uses of Epicatechin

Epicatechin is a flavanol found in Dark Chocolate (and other sources such as Green Tea) and is often marketed as a myostatin inhibitor. While there is limited research on this, let’s dive into what we actually have so far.

There are very limited human studies done on Epicatechin. The one many companies point to, is a study showing that Epicatechin can increase Follistatin, while lowering Myostatin. It also showed a very slight increase in hand-grip strength. There was unfortunately no control group, and there certainly needs to be more studies done before it gets a complete seal of approval from FI.

Interactions with Epicatechin

You’ll typically see Epicatechin paired with other muscle building ingredients such as Creatine Monohydrate, Betaine Anhydrous, and Laxogenin.

Side Effects with Epicatechin

There are currently no known side effects of Epicatechin, although that does not mean there are none. Always talk to your doctor before supplementing with Epicatechin.

Recommended Dose of Epicatechin

Although more research needs to be done on Epicatechin, 100mg-300mg per day is where you’ll see Epicatechin dosed for the most part.

While Epicatechin is naturally occuring in Dark Chocolate and Green Tea, you would have to consume a high amount of both to get a studied amount of Epicatechin, so if you want the potential Myostatin/Follistatin benefits, you’ll need to supplement with Epicatechin.