A recent medical study has shown that regular and moderate consumption of dark chocolate improves cardiovascular health and treats some metabolic problems associated with fatty liver disease.
The researchers pointed out that cardiovascular diseases and metabolic liver dysfunction have common evolutionary mechanisms such as chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and disorders of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. Their study results showed that flavonols such as epicatechin and catechins found in cocoa are able to positively affect these vital processes, as they enhance the bioavailability of nitric oxide, improve the endothelial function of blood vessels, and reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory activity in the body.
Numerous clinical studies have shown that moderate consumption of dark chocolate has been associated with improved blood lipid levels, including increased levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and decreased levels of total cholesterol and bad cholesterol (LDL). Improvements in blood vessel function, lower blood pressure, and reduced markers of inflammation and liver cell damage have also been reported.
The researchers noted that their study focused specifically on dark chocolate, which is rich in cocoa and flavanols, and despite the results they obtained, the evidence that it reduces the risk of heart attacks or worsening liver disease is currently insufficient, but dark chocolate can be considered a possible addition to a balanced diet.
