For endothelial and vascular function
Dark chocolate induced a rapid and significant improvement of endothelial and platelet function in healthy smokers 2-8 hours after ingestion28-30. Cigarette smokers exhibit increased atherogenic potential, as they consistently have endothelial and platelet dysfunction, which are associated
with an increased cardiovascular risk31. These findings are mediated by the antioxidant effect of polyphenol-rich dark chocolate. Hypertension and excess body weight are important risk factors for
endothelial dysfunction. Recent evidence suggests that high-polyphenol dark chocolate improves endothelial function and lowers blood pressure in stage 1 hypertension32 . Hence consumption of
chocolate bars resulted in reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.