Overview
Cocoa flavanol that suppresses myostatin and improves NO.
- Endogenously produced or biosynthesized molecule
- Standardized pharmaceutical- or food-grade supplement
- Combined with cofactors that improve absorption or activity
- Capsule or softgel
- Powder
- Sublingual or buccal
- Liposomal liquid
Mechanism of action
Inhibits myostatin/SMAD signaling; activates eNOS.
- · Inhibits myostatin/SMAD signaling
- · activates eNOS
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
(-)-Epicatechin influences muscle protein synthesis, neuromuscular output, or recovery from exercise.
Evidence-based benefits
Increases follistatin:myostatin ratio in humans
Limited evidencePotential side effects
- · Headache
Drug interactions
Supplement interactions
- Creatine monohydrateFoundational support for strength, power, and lean mass.
- Whey or EAAsProvides amino acid substrate for muscle protein synthesis.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Third-party testedIndependently verified (-)-Epicatechin — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.(-)-Epicatechin third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured (-)-Epicatechin capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.(-)-Epicatechin capsules
PowderBulk unflavored (-)-Epicatechin powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.(-)-Epicatechin powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased (-)-Epicatechin products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.(-)-Epicatechin best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
(-)-Epicatechin on muscle in elderly
Gutierrez-Salmean G, et al.
1-week pilot in 6 elderly subjects.
Increased grip strength and improved myostatin/follistatin ratio.
PubMed: (-)-Epicatechin — Increases follistatin:myostatin ratio in humans
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