How much chocolate is beneficial? Researchers in Europe recently found that 6.7 grams (1/4 oz.) of dark chocolate per day provides a protective effect against cardiovascular disease and inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases.
They found that people that consumed moderate amounts of dark chocolate had lower levels of C-reactive protein in their blood. This study demonstated that their body's inflammatory state was reduced and average of 17% cutting the risks for myocardial infarction and stroke in men and women. Keep in mind that milk chocolate is not the same a dark chocolate and therefore will not have the same effect. Milk interferes with the absorption of polyphenols.
The Journal of Nutrition, October 2008, 138:1939-1945.
