Flavanol is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in various types of plants, in particular the cocoa plant. These antioxidant qualities found in flavanols can be extremely important to maintaining a healthy body. However, it is important to utilize cocoa flavanols that have not been diluted in order to receive the full benefit.

As with many antioxidants, flavanol promotes health by helping the body to deal with the presence of free radicals. Essentially, the flavanoids inhibit the ability of the free radicals to trigger negative changes within the body chemistry. These types of antioxidants are also credited with helping to prevent blood clots. There is also some evidence that flavanoid compounds can be helpful in reducing the level of LDL or bad cholesterol in the bloodstream.

In recent years, some experiments conducted with cocoa flavanol indicate that the substance can also improve the flow of blood to and from the brain. While more testing is necessary, early indications support the idea that cocoa with significant flavanol content may be helpful in restoring the balance of mood enhancing chemicals in the brain. If further experimentation proves this hypothesis to be true, it could mean cocoa rich with this antioxidant might be helpful in treating depression, anxiety, and possibly even dementia.

It is important to draw a distinction between chocolate flavanol and cocoa flavanol. The amount of antioxidants present in the cocoa blends used in most commercial chocolate products is significantly less than what is found in cocoa beans. This indicates that attempting to increase the flavanol levels by consuming more chocolate is likely to result in nothing more than a larger waistline and possibly blood glucose spikes.

Another issue with chocolate flavanols is the high fat content. However, cocoa is normally devoid of a great deal of fat. Thus, consuming cocoa that is antioxidant rich is not likely to create any issues for the body in terms of weight gain, clogged arteries, or unpleasant shifts in blood sugar levels.

When included as part of a balanced diet, foods with a significant flavanol content will greatly enhance the ability of all the organs of the body to function properly. By controlling the activity of free radicals, the antioxidant will also support the function of the body’s immune system, allowing the system to efficiently deal viruses and other elements that invade the body. A physician can provide guidelines regarding the type of foods, including cocoa, to consume and the maximum daily allotment required to achieve the desired result.