Usage of despite and although

[Anubha]

How can I chose correct answer for the following question:

240. Despite no proof that the consumption of any particular foods reverse hardening of the arteries, studies indicate that refraining from eating certain foods could help reverse blockage of coronary arteries, the blood vessels that feed the heart.
(A) Despite no proof that the consumption of any particular foods reverse hardening of the arteries, studies indicate that refraining from eating certain foods could
(B) Despite no foods having been proved to reverse hardening of the arteries when consumed, studies indicate that refraining from eating certain foods can
(C) Although the consumption of no particular foods have been proved to reverse hardening of the arteries, studies indicate that to refrain from eating certain foods could
(D) Although not proved that the consumption of any foods reverse hardening of the arteries, studies indicate that refraining from eating certain foods can
(E) Although it has not been proved that the consumption of any particular food will reverse hardening of the arteries, studies indicate that refraining from eating certain foods can

[Jlupine]

'Although' is usually used to introduce a concessive clause, one that weakens the scope, force, or truth of the main clause. "Although she prefers chocolate, Maria is happy to eat vanilla ice cream."

"Despite' is more like "in defiance of" or "regardless of". "Despite his unpopularity with voters, the politician intends to run for re-election."

So, I don't like (A) or (B) because of 'Despite'. (B) is syntactically the most syntactically awkward of the five. (A), (C), and (D) all have singular subjects with plural verbs. (E) is the best of them.