Epidemiologic studies have shown inverse associations between dietary polyphenols (present in dark chocolate and cocoa) and mortality from coronary heart disease. However, the basis for this protective association is uncertain. Food polyphenols such as in cocoa reportedly have antioxidant properties and decrease platelet function in vitro. The goal of the present study was to investigate whether the beneficial antioxidant effect of polyphenol-rich cocoa can induce an improvement of endothelial and platelet function in patients with stable coronary artery disease with known platelet hyperreactivity.
The effects of chocolate on cardiovascular health are still a matter of debate. It can potentially favor cardiovascular health through the antioxidative effects of cocoa ingredients, such as polyphenols (present in dark but not white chocolate).