A lot of scientific studies reveal that dark chocolate is indeed good for heart. Plain dark chocolates are rich in flavanols, a phytonutrient (a helpful antioxidant), believed to protect the heart. It has been proven that dark chocolate helps in reducing blood pressure, one of the main causes of heart disease. It has also been established that it lowers ones level of LDL cholesterol (considered as bad cholesterol).

There are scientifically proven reports of heart attack survivors, who eat dark chocolate daily reducing their risk of further heart disease than those who never taken dark chocolates. So, it might be good news for patients suffering from heart diseases and chocolate lovers.

But, there is another side to this story. Only the flavanoid content of cocoa provides health benefits. During the processing, many manufactures remove the flavanol from chocolates because it has bitter taste. They also do not reveal the actual flavanol content of the chocolate due to their marketing strategy. So, even the dark colored chocolate might not be containing the appropriate amount of beneficial flavanoids.

Moreover even if it is containing the flavanoids, the devils - fat, sugar and calories present in the dark chocolate may offset the benefits of flavanols. Consumption of large amount of dark chocolate will provide extra calories that you may not want. So, try to balance those extra calories by reducing the intake of other calories rich food.

So, if you want to include dark chocolate in your diet for health benefit, take it in a very small amount. The best way to keep your heart healthy is through a healthy diet, regular exercise and a good life style.