Benefits of Eating Dark Chocolate for Blood Pressure

Just 30 calories per day of chocolate may be enough to help reduce your blood pressure. As far as serving sizes go, that's about a Hershey's Kiss worth.

But you have to eat the right kind of chocolate, according to Joseph Maroon, MD, author of The Longevity Factor. He recommends nonsweetened or minimally sweetened dark chocolate that's at least 70 percent cocoa.

Dark Chocolate: The Benefits
In addition to the chocolate and blood pressure connection, dark chocolate can also help reduce atherosclerosis and blood clotting, aid blood flow, contribute to an overall reduction in heart attacks, and improve cholesterol levels, according to Maroon. And it's all thanks to the powerful antioxidants found in the cocoa bean. Here's everything you ever wanted to know about this heart-smart treat.

More Good Reasons to Eat Chocolate
As if you need them . . . Maroon offers three more great reasons to indulge:

1. For better blood sugar. Chocolate enhances the effect of insulin and sugar utilization. Drop your blood sugar even further with this one painless click.

2. For a finer complexion. Yep, fewer wrinkles and fine lines. Here's how dark chocolate benefits your skin

3. For a better mood. The taste isn't the only reason it makes us smile. This is how you get happier with chocolate.

Watch this video on how to make quick 60-calorie brownies.

Chocolate too sweet for your taste buds? Then look to these fruits for similar health benefits.

The Longevity Factor: How Resveratrol and Red Wine Activate Genes for a Longer and Healthier Life. Maroon, Joseph C., New York: Atria Books, 2009.