What are flavanols and where are they found according to the University of Birmingham study?

Flavanols are natural compounds found in foods such as cocoa, berries, apples, tea, and nuts, which have shown cardiovascular benefits.

Can fitness levels prevent heart damage from sitting, as per the study?

The study suggests that high fitness levels do not fully prevent temporary vascular impairment from sitting if low-flavanol cocoa is consumed.

What specific foods can help protect my heart from prolonged sitting?

Foods rich in flavanols, including cocoa, berries, apples, tea, and nuts, may help protect your heart vessels from sitting-induced damage.

Home / Health / Cocoa, Berries May Guard Heart From Sitting

Cocoa, Berries May Guard Heart From Sitting

30 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Flavanols in cocoa, berries, apples protect blood vessels from sitting.
High-flavanol cocoa prevented vascular decline in a study.
Dietary flavanols support heart health regardless of fitness level.

Cocoa, Berries May Guard Heart From Sitting

New research from the University of Birmingham indicates that incorporating flavanol-rich foods into your diet may counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting on cardiovascular health. Flavanols, found abundantly in items like cocoa, berries, and apples, have demonstrated the ability to protect blood vessels from the strain of inactivity.

A study involving healthy young men showed that consuming a high-flavanol cocoa beverage before a two-hour sitting period prevented declines in vascular function. Conversely, those who consumed a low-flavanol version experienced negative impacts on blood vessel elasticity and blood flow.

These findings suggest that dietary choices can play a significant role in supporting vascular health, regardless of an individual's fitness level. The researchers recommend integrating flavanol-rich foods and incorporating short breaks from sitting to promote long-term well-being.