Quality dark chocolate is rich in fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, and a few other minerals.
Cocoa and dark chocolate have a wide variety of powerful antioxidants. In fact, they have way more than most other foods.
The bioactive compounds in cocoa may improve blood flow in the arteries and cause a small but statistically significant decrease in blood pressure.
Dark chocolate's antioxidants lower oxidation-prone LDL, reduce insulin resistance and risk of heart disease. But, it also contains sugar.
Dark chocolate's compounds protect LDL from oxidation, lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
Dark chocolate flavanols protect skin, double MED after 12wks. But, chocolate cannot replace sunscreen for skin protection.
Cocoa or dark chocolate may improve brain function by increasing blood flow. It also contains stimulants like caffeine and theobromine.