Health

Dark Chocolate Is More Than Just an Antioxidant: Cocoa Flavanols Modestly Improve Blood Pressure and Endothelial Function in Clinical Trials

Research suggests that cocoa flavan-3-ols, particularly epicatechin, may benefit cardiovascular health by improving endothelial function and supporting nitric oxide signalling, which helps blood vessels relax and widen. A 2019 review found a modest improvement in flow-mediated dilation, while a larger 2025 meta-analysis of 145 trials involving 5,205 participants reported improved endothelial function and a small reduction in blood pressure.