Flavanol Research Studies funding provided in part by Mars, Incorporated:Flavanols, phytonutrients, found in plant foods like cocoa, tea, wine, nuts and certain fruits and vegetables, have been linked to numerous health benefits. Flavanols represent a sub-class of a group of natural compounds called flavonoids which are widely distributed in plants. Scientists have identified several cocoa flavanols, including epicatechin, catechin, and their oligomeric forms. A growing body of evidence indicates that flavanols, found naturally in unprocessed cocoa and to varying degrees in processed cocoa products, may be linked to a range of circulatory health benefits. Specifically, research indicates that cocoa flavanols may help:
*Improve blood vessel function and increase blood flow
*Reduce tendency of blood clots to form
*Reduce blood pressure in people with mild hypertension
*Increase blood flow to the brain, which could have important implications for learning and memory-"Wow"
Contrary to repeated reports, the percent cacao or cocoa mass does not indicate cocoa flavanol content. While traditional cocoa processing often destroys many of these beneficial phytonutrients, Mars, Incorporated developed a patented and proprietary process called Cocoapro® that helps retain the flavanols normally destroyed during processing.
Several research publications on cocoa and flavenols are found HERE:
Isn't chocolate an amazing food. However, remember the health benefits are NOT found in M & M's and other normal American chocolates adulterated with additives. That's just candy.
You have to have a very good, very dark chocolate with 60% + cacao content with no artificial additives. They may be a bit more expensive, but with chocolate it is the quality not quantity that counts. Savour every little bite. For as I have said before, the characteristics of a fine chocolate are similar to that of a fine wine.
Have a great day,
Donna
"Don't wreck a sublime chocolate experience by feeling guilty."~Lora Brody
If you eat the good stuff, you don't have to feel guilty. Isn't that lovely? Bye...:)
