Dark chocolate lovers, take heart — literally.
Your favourite treat may be doing more than just satisfying your sweet tooth. According to science-backed insights (like those in this video), dark chocolate can help increase nitric oxide (NO) production, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular benefits which, it also turns out, can lead to lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease due to the impacts that stiffening blood vessels has on the brain.
🌿 What Is Nitric Oxide and Why Does It Matter?
Nitric oxide (NO) is a molecule produced by the inner lining of your blood vessels (the endothelium). It acts as a vasodilator — meaning it helps relax and widen blood vessels. This improves blood flow, reduces blood pressure, and supports overall cardiovascular health.
Key benefits of nitric oxide include:
- Lower blood pressure
- Enhanced circulation
- Reduced arterial stiffness
- Better oxygen delivery to tissues
- Protection against clot formation
- Lower risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
🍫 The Flavanol Connection: How Dark Chocolate Helps — and What CBD Has to Do With It
Dark chocolate (especially varieties with 70% cocoa or more) is rich in flavanols — plant-based compounds that trigger the production of nitric oxide.
Here’s how it works:
- Flavanols stimulate nitric oxide synthase, the enzyme that converts the amino acid L-arginine into nitric oxide.
- Nitric oxide then signals the blood vessels to relax and widen.
- This leads to improved endothelial function, reduced inflammation, and better heart health.
Interestingly, CBD oil also contains flavonoids — naturally occurring plant compounds found in hemp. While their specific effects vary, flavonoids in CBD are believed to contribute to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory effects, further supporting cardiovascular health when used alongside a balanced lifestyle.
So yes — whether it’s dark chocolate or CBD oil, plant-based compounds like flavonoids are proving powerful allies for the heart and circulatory system.
❤️ Heart Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Multiple studies have shown that regular consumption of flavanol-rich dark chocolate can lead to:
- Lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure
- Improved arterial elasticity
- Reduced LDL (“bad”) cholesterol oxidation
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Enhanced blood flow and circulation
And no — you don’t need to eat a whole bar. Even 20–30g a few times a week can provide noticeable benefits.
✅ Choosing the Right Dark Chocolate
To maximise the nitric oxide and cardiovascular benefits, look for:
- At least 70% cocoa content
- Low sugar and minimal additives
- Bean-to-bar, craft chocolate makers, rather than large factory made bars
- Organically grown and ethically sourced cocoa (Fairtrade, whenever possible)
Avoid milk chocolate and overprocessed products, which typically contain fewer flavanols and more sugar — reducing the heart-health perks.
👉 Looking for a functional treat? Try our Bristol CBD Dark Chocolate Bar — handcrafted with 72% cocoa and infused with high-quality CBD for a double dose of flavonoid-rich goodness.
So yes — whether it’s dark chocolate or CBD oil, plant-based compounds like flavonoids are proving powerful allies for the heart and circulatory system.
✨ The Bottom Line
Dark chocolate isn’t just a decadent treat — it’s a functional food that supports your heart.
By boosting nitric oxide production naturally, high-quality dark chocolate helps improve blood flow, reduce blood pressure, and support long-term cardiovascular health.
So next time you reach for a square, enjoy it guilt-free — your heart just might thank you.
💚 About Bristol CBD
Bristol CBD is the most trusted CBD brand in the UK, with a 5.0-star rating on both Google and Trustpilot. Alongside our premium CBD products, we also offer a carefully curated range of high-spec functional mushrooms, including Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Shiitake, Chaga, Reishi, and Turkey Tail.
We pride ourselves on offering unparalleled customer service, support, and advice, backed by a 100% money-back guarantee if you’re not completely satisfied with your product.
If you have any questions about buying or using CBD or medicinal mushrooms, feel free to call us anytime on 07706 031 935. We’re always happy to share our experience and help you find the best solution for your personal needs.
Please note: our staff are not qualified doctors or nurses, and we do not make medical claims or recommend CBD for specific ailments. All content is based on scientific research and years of practical experience. We always encourage speaking with your GP or healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Not sure what to buy?
👉 Contact us and speak to our dedicated CBD team!