Created in partnership with CocoaVia.

You know about the importance of antioxidants and vitamin B12, but you may not have heard about the health benefits of flavanols.

These compounds are one of the reasons cocoa (in its pure, non-sugary form!) is considered by many to be a health food (thanks, flavanols!). So, we’re guessing you want to get to know them pretty intimately.

Here’s what you need to know, including why you should get yours from CocoaVia supplement.

What Are Flavanols?

Flavonoids are naturally occurring compounds found in plants. Among flavonoids, there is a distinct sub-group known as flavonols. These flavanols are predominant in foods and beverages such as tea, apples, grapes, red wine, and cocoa.

And cocoa flavanols are special on their own—they’re a unique blend of phytonutrients found only in the prized cocoa beans. Before you run out and buy your favorite chocolate bar, be aware that although cocoa beans are a natural source, the processing of cocoa beans—fermentation, roasting, and alkalization—can lead to the destruction of some of these unique flavanols.

What Do They Do?

Of course, what they do for your body is what matters, and research points to some pretty impressive health benefits.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that cocoa flavanols help support blood vessel health and healthy circulation. That’s good news for your heart and your overall health, since the circulatory system is the pathway for delivering vital oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues.

Where to Find Them

Flavanols are found in a variety of foods, including many fruits, but the levels can be variable, so there’s no way to know how much you’re actually getting. The best way to guarantee that you’re getting a lot of them in your diet is through CocoaVia, a daily cocoa extract supplement. CocoaVia provides 375mg of cocoa flavanols in every serving and comes in a variety of flavors, including a chocolatey flavor that’s great in a smoothie or overnight oats. That’s a pretty good deal, right?