Raises HDL and protects LDL from oxidation

Dark chocolate consumption can improve several important risk factors for heart disease. Cocoa powder was found to significantly lower oxidized LDL (bad) cholesterol in men in a controlled study. It also increased HDL while decreasing total LDL in people with high cholesterol.

The term "oxidized LDL" refers to LDL cholesterol that has reacted with free radicals. This makes the LDL particle reactive and capable of causing damage to other tissues, such as the lining of your heart's arteries. It stands to reason that cocoa reduces oxidized LDL. It contains a high concentration of powerful antioxidants that enter the bloodstream and protect lipoproteins from oxidative damage.

Dark chocolate flavanols can also reduce insulin resistance, which is another common risk factor for diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Dark chocolate, on the other hand, contains sugar, which can have the opposite effect.