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The article presence the findings of several studies conducted to examine the beneficial effect of chocolate consumption in human body. Topics discussed include presence of micronutrients and antioxidants in chocolates, decreased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people who add cocoa polyphenols in their diet and multiple improvements in CVD risk factors after the consumption of dark chocolate.

Polyphenols are suggested to have human health benefits, yet debate still exists over their value in the diet. This review examines their efficacy and the effect of structural diversity on their reactivity and any implications this may have with respect to possible unfavourable adverse effects. We propose that polyphenols are of benefit to humans through dietary consumption, yet care should be taken over excessive consumption, particularly in some subgroups of the population, e.g. those on certain medications because of complex nutrient-drug interactions. Pharmaceutical application should be avoided until there is greater understanding of absorption and behaviour of polyphenols within the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]