How Cocoa Flavanols Can Boost Brain and Heart Health

Your brain and heart are the ultimate dream team, guiding every move, decision, and heartbeat. Yet, too often, they don’t get the proactive care they deserve. Fortunately, there’s a simple and delicious way to support these vital organs: cocoa flavanols.

Cocoa flavanols are naturally occurring plant compounds found in the cacao plant. As a subset of flavonoids, they help increase nitric oxide production in the body, which promotes the dilation of blood vessels. This enhanced blood flow supports both heart and brain function, making cocoa flavanols a powerful ally for overall wellness.

Why Cocoa Flavanols Matter

Registered dietitian Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, points out that cocoa flavanols are a simple yet effective way to promote long-term brain and cardiovascular health. But she cautions: it’s not as easy as reaching for a candy bar. Processing and added sugars in typical chocolate treats can negate many of the health benefits. Plus, the heat from baking often destroys the sensitive flavanol compounds.

Instead, Shapiro recommends a concentrated flavanol supplement. Products like CocoaVia™ available in capsules and powders made with highly concentrated Cocoapro™ extract offer an easy, sugar-free way to get these benefits daily.

The Brain Benefits of Cocoa Flavanols

Boosting blood flow to the brain can enhance memory, focus, and overall cognitive function. Shapiro notes that cocoa flavanols help preserve neuron health, potentially improving quality of life as we age.

One standout product, CocoaVia Memory+, delivers 750 milligrams of cocoa flavanols per serving, a clinically supported amount shown to improve word recall, spatial memory, and long-term memory in as little as eight to 12 weeks. Another option, CocoaVia Memory & Focus, pairs cocoa flavanols with lutein known for eye and brain health and a small dose of natural caffeine for an added mental lift.

The Cardio Benefits of Cocoa Flavanols

When it comes to heart health, cocoa flavanols work wonders by supporting blood vessel elasticity and circulation. Shapiro emphasizes that healthy blood flow helps maintain normal blood pressure and overall cardiovascular vitality.

Large-scale research backs these claims: The Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), conducted by Brigham and Women’s Hospital between 2015 and 2020, found that participants who took 500 milligrams of cocoa flavanols daily experienced a 39-percent reduction in deaths from cardiovascular disease compared to a placebo group.

Whether you prefer capsules or a powder stirred into your morning coffee, CocoaVia makes it easy to integrate these benefits into your routine.

How to Enjoy Cocoa Flavanols Daily

• Stir CocoaVia powder into coffee, tea, or smoothies

• Blend into chocolatey overnight oats or protein energy balls

• Mix into savory recipes like black bean dip for an unexpected twist

Supporting your brain and heart doesn't require major lifestyle changes just a small daily habit can make a meaningful difference.

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