We have already mentioned the anti-stress properties of dark chocolate, to which we have apparently added other benefits which this time target the cardiovascular system. Researchers recently published a study in a European medical journal showing that consuming a small amount of dark chocolate daily can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

After following 19,357 people between the ages of 35 and 65 who ate about 7.5 grams of dark chocolate per day for at least ten years, a team of German researchers concluded that most subjects tended to have low blood pressure. In addition, the risk of heart attack or fibrillation was significantly lower in these chocolate lovers. The reduction in these risks was still 39%.

The researchers explain this strong decrease in risk by the flavonols, phytochemical components abundant in cocoa. As we know, cocoa is the main ingredient of dark chocolate. These natural substances seem to improve the bioavailability of cellular nitric oxide. A lack of nitric oxide in the blood is harmful to the vessel walls. In fact, nitric oxide in the form of gas, once released, causes a relaxation of the endothelial cells forming the smooth musculature that form the internal lumen of blood vessels. It is this phenomenon that promotes hypotension. Nitric oxide also improves platelet function, blood fluidity and makes the vascular endothelium less attractive to white blood cells that tend to attach to it.

However, we advise you to avoid supermarket or industrial chocolate, which is much higher in calories since it generally contains a large quantity of refined sugars and often artificial flavors or other chemical additives. Instead, consider brightening up your daily taste buds with a small amount of dark chocolate with 75 or 80% cocoa.

Scientists have also shown that dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content plays an antioxidant role. However, it should be remembered that some dark chocolates contain approximately 500 calories per 100 g. So don't overdo it, but don't deprive yourself of this pleasant treat and its various very beneficial virtues.