Dark chocolate contains no added milk or butter, with cocoa solids and cocoa butter the primary ingredients. It also tends to have less sugar than milk chocolate, resulting in a smooth, deeper taste reminiscent of fresh coffee, toasted nuts, or dried fruit. But dark Hawaiian chocolate has benefits beyond taste; it's good for your heart too. Discover a few cardiovascular benefits of this type of chocolate below.

How Dark Chocolate Boosts Heart Health

1. Antioxidants

Antioxidants are active compounds that fight harmful free radicals in the body. Diets high in antioxidant-rich foods have been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The seeds of the Theobroma cacao plant, the source of all dark chocolate, are high in these valuable compounds.

2. Lower Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the cells of the body. High cholesterol levels cause fatty deposits to build up in artery walls, which leads to heart disease and cardiovascular events. 

While eating moderate amounts of dark chocolate won't raise your cholesterol, consuming it alongside almonds and unsweetened cocoa powder can bring those levels down. Check the ingredients on your favorite dark Hawaiian chocolate bar and choose one with added almonds or cocoa powder to enjoy these cholesterol-lowering and heart-healthy advantages.

3. Lower Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is the cause of many cardiovascular events because it exerts significant strain on the coronary arteries, weakening them over time and making a heart attack more likely. But studies have found that regularly eating dark chocolate and other products with cocoa can decrease blood pressure by small but notable increments. These products contain plenty of flavanols, chemical compounds thought to widen blood vessels and prevent hypertension.

Experience the heart benefits of dark chocolate when you shop at Dole/Tropical Fruits Distributors of Hawaii. Located in Honolulu, they're the islands' premier grower of Royal Hawaiian® Tropical Gold Pineapples®. They also sell dark Hawaiian chocolate and Waialua coffee, and all products are freshly harvested and 100% locally grown. Call (808) 847-3234 to place an order, or visit them online to learn more about their production quality.