How cocoa flavanols may support vascular health
Scientists have been examining the various components in cocoa and chocolate since the mid 1990s to learn how they might contribute to good health. One of the first objectives of this research focused on measuring and identifying the naturally occurring flavanol compounds in cocoa beans. These findings indicated that the composition and concentration of flavanol in cocoa (i.e, 'cocoa flavanols') is different from those found in other foods, which may help to explain why including certain cocoas and chocolates in the diet may help to support cardiovascular health.

What current research suggests
Research suggests that cocoa flavanols can exert powerful effects on the body’s network of blood vessels. When we remember that every body system is connected by this network, it's easy to understand why these results are so exciting. There is a growing body of research which suggests that cocoa flavanols may help to support cardiovascular health by maintaining healthy blood pressure, promoting healthy platelet and blood vessel function, and reducing inflammation. The number(s) after each of the following potential heart and circulatory health benefits leads to the research sources supporting that benefit.

Results of the research* on cocoa flavanols indicate they may:

• Support healthy blood vessels. Findings indicate regular consumption of flavanol-rich cocoa may support healthy blood vessel function. ^15,18-22
  
• Promote healthy platelet functions. Cocoa flavanols may reduce the tendency of platelets to form damaging clots, thereby helping to support healthy blood flow and circulation. ^7-10
  
• Support insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. ^3-4
  
• Play a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure. Consumption of products rich in cocoa flavanols may have a positive impact on blood pressure.^2-6
  
• Reduce inflammation. ^1,16
  
• Help to support cardiovascular health. Populations whose diets regularly include foods high in flavonoids, including cocoa flavanols, have a lower incidence of coronary heart disease and stroke.^11,13-14,24

Protecting the natural flavanols in cocoa and chocolate
Recognizing the potential health benefits of cocoa flavanols, Mars, Incorporated has conducted extensive research to better understand how to control the many variables from farm to market that can impact the levels of cocoa flavanols In products. They used this knowledge to develop a patented, proprietary process, called Cocoapro® that helps to insure that more of the naturally occurring flavanols found in the cocoa beans are retained. It is Mars knowledge of chocolate that allows them to create great tasting chocolates that are rich in flavanols. As the leaders in cocoa science, Mars Inc went on to create CocoaVia® Brand Snacks, the first line of cocoa and chocolate snacks formulated with ingredients intended to help support heart health.

Are you interested in more information on cocoa flavanols and your health?
In addition to the Glossary links for terms on this page and the links to "Notes" for each of the potential heart health benefits above, you may be interested in the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How do CocoaVia® Brand Snacks support heart health?

Are cocoa flavanols in all chocolate?