Is dark chocolate good for the heart or mainly a treat?
Dark chocolate contains cocoa compounds studied for possible benefits, but remains energy dense and may contain sugar and saturated fat. A chocolate bar is not a treatment for hypertension or heart disease, and 70% cocoa does not guarantee a therapeutic flavanol dose.
Details
Interpret the research carefully
Cocoa extracts studied in trials can differ from shop-bought products. A small change in a blood-pressure measurement does not establish prevention of heart attacks or justify eating large quantities.
If you enjoy it
Choose a small amount that fits your diet and compare sugar, energy and serving size. Some higher-cocoa varieties contain less sugar, but are not necessarily low in calories. There is no need to buy chocolate for health reasons if you do not enjoy it.
Reduce it or change the timing if it worsens reflux or sleep. With diabetes, count the carbohydrate in the portion; chocolate cannot replace medication, activity or a balanced eating pattern.
Related reading: Is butter healthier than margarine for the heart?.