good for the heart

Cocoa powder and chocolate contain rich sources of polyphenol antioxidants, which are the same beneficial compounds found in many fruits and vegetables and in red wine that may reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

It is believed that damage done in the body by free oxygen radicals is linked to heart disease and other maladies connected with aging. There is some research that indicates that antioxidants help eliminate free radicals, thus reducing the risk of LDL (bad) cholesterol causing plaques in the blood vessels, which contribute to heart disease.

Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants, per 100 grams, than prunes, raisins, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, plums, oranges, red grapes, red bell peppers, cherries, onions, corn, or eggplant.