Dark chocolate has many proven health benefits such as being highly nutritious and loaded with antioxidants like polyphenols and catechins. It can lower blood pressure by stimulating nitric oxide production, lower LDL cholesterol in men, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular death by 50% over 15 years according to studies. Dark chocolate also protects skin from sun damage, improves blood flow to the skin, and enhances blood flow to the brain which can improve brain function.