Desk Job Lifeline: Cocoa Flavanols Boost Blood Flow, Counter Harmful Effects of Long Sitting

New research offers a simple way to fight the health risks of prolonged sitting. Sitting too long harms blood vessel function. This damage can increase your risk of heart problems. A study from the University of Birmingham found a solution in plant compounds.

These compounds are called flavanols. You can find them in foods like cocoa and berries. Researchers gave healthy young men a high-flavanol cocoa drink. The men then sat still for two hours. Compared to the low-flavanol group, their blood flow remained strong. Specifically, the major arteries in their arms and legs maintained better function. This effect occurred regardless of the person’s fitness level.

Flavanols work by increasing nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide helps blood vessels relax and widen. This improves circulation. Experts stress that this is not a magic fix. Movement is still the best tool for vascular health. However, flavanol-rich foods can be a helpful addition. They can buffer the short-term stress that long periods of sitting place on your arteries.