Evidence supporting the use of: Chocolate
For the health condition: Arteriosclerosis

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate rich in flavonoids, has been investigated for its potential cardiovascular benefits, including effects relevant to arteriosclerosis. Scientific studies suggest that the polyphenols (especially flavanols) in cocoa can improve endothelial function, reduce inflammation, and decrease oxidative stress—factors that contribute to the development of arteriosclerosis. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that regular consumption of dark chocolate or cocoa can modestly lower blood pressure, improve lipid profiles, and enhance vascular elasticity. For example, a 2012 meta-analysis in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that flavanol-rich chocolate and cocoa products improved some markers of cardiovascular health, including flow-mediated dilation, a measure of endothelial function.

However, while these effects may theoretically reduce the risk or progression of arteriosclerosis, the evidence remains moderate (score 3) because most studies are short-term, use surrogate markers (not direct measures of arteriosclerosis), and often involve relatively small participant groups. Furthermore, the beneficial effects are primarily associated with high-cocoa, low-sugar chocolate—consuming typical chocolate products with high sugar and fat content may negate any potential benefit. Thus, while there is scientific support for the vascular effects of cocoa flavanols, more extensive and long-term clinical trials are needed to establish a clear preventive or therapeutic role for chocolate in arteriosclerosis.

More about chocolate
More about Arteriosclerosis

Products containing chocolate

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.