-     Studies of flavonoids suggests the flavonoid content of chocolate may reduce risk of cardiovascular mortality

Studies have shown that small portions of dark chocolate are all that is needed for the health benefit. One study suggested that only one Hershey Kiss® daily reduced blood pressure in participants who had mildly elevated blood pressure. Other studies have shown that the benefit would occur with one ounce (see guide below) of dark chocolate in incorporated daily.

Before you grab a chocolate bar, or a slab of chocolate cake, keep in mind that when cocoa is processed it goes through several steps to reduce its naturally pungent taste (the flavonoids provide this taste). The more processing, the more flavonoids lost, so you do want to choose simple dark chocolate varieties for the most benefit as they contain the most flavonoids per calorie.

Here is your portion guide for choosing your daily dark chocolate dose:

-     Dove dark miniatures, 3 pieces

-     Two squares of a dark chocolate bar (about a 1 inch square)

-     Hershey Special Dark Kisses, 5 kisses

Keep it fad-free this Valentine’s Day and consider choosing a bar of good dark chocolate for your Valentine. For wine drinkers, adding a glass of flavonoid-rich red wine to your dark chocolate square may even provide additional heart-healthy benefits. Candles can’t hurt either. Enjoy!