Cocoa and dark chocolate

Products made from cocoa and dark chocolate are not only delicious, but they may also prevent atherosclerosis. Eating chocolate was linked to reduced coronary atherosclerotic plaque, according to one research with 2,217 participants. These arteries transport oxygen-rich blood to the heart.

Additionally, products made with cocoa and dark chocolate are a great source of polyphenol plant compounds. These support nitric oxide production and reduce artery inflammation, which may help atherosclerotic patients' physical function. In one study, 20 participants with peripheral artery disease, a condition brought on by atherosclerosis, were compared to see how eating dark and milk chocolate affected them. Dark chocolate was defined in the study as having a cocoa content greater than 85%. When compared to milk chocolate, the researchers discovered that 40 grams of dark chocolate considerably increased walking time and blood levels of nitric oxide.