Flavanols in cocoa, berries may improve blood flow in sedentary people
Modern lifestyles mean that people spend an increasing amount of time sitting, whether working at a desk, watching TV, or travelling by car, train or plane. Prolonged sitting can adversely affect the function of the blood vessels. A new study has found that foods high in flavanols — antioxidants found in plant foods, such as cocoa, tea, and some fruits and vegetables — may improve vascular function during sitting or being sedentary.