Research Found (Yet Another) Reason To Eat Dark Chocolate

We know dark chocolate tends to be a healthier option compared to other sugar-packed options, but that's not the only reason to reach for a piece.

A study published in Nature Scientific Reports found that dark chocolate consumption could reduce the risk of hypertension1. In addition, they suspect that dark chocolate may decrease blood clot risk, but more research is needed to establish a causal relationship for the latter. 

The team of researchers used a technique called Mendelian Randomization to analyze genetic data from genome-wide association studies. Through this method, they identified a causal relationship between dark chocolate intake and lower hypertension risk and eliminated the chance of reverse causation. 

This finding joins a long list of research-backed reasons to eat dark chocolate, like the potent antioxidant profile2, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial3 properties, and specific benefits for fasting blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. 

Research suggests that dark chocolate consumption could help lower hypertension risk, again showing how this sweet treat benefits your health. Just be sure to stick with chocolate products containing 50% or more cacao to meet the dark chocolate threshold. Craving something sweet?