Alternative Health Blog

In a study involving data from 2,141 subjects at least 35 years of age, consumption of small doses of dark chocolate was found to be inversely associated with serum C-reactive protein, after adjusting for various potential confounders. A J-shaped relationship between dark chocolate consumption and serum C-reactive protein was observed. Specifically, subjects consuming up to 1 serving (20 g) of dark chocolate every 3 days were found to have significantly lower serum C-reactive protein concentrations than subjects not consuming any dark chocolate, as well as those consuming higher amounts of dark chocolate. The authors conclude, "Our findings suggest that regular consumption of small doses of dark chocolate may reduce inflammation."
 
Reference:
"Regular consumption of dark chocolate is associated with low serum concentrations of C-reactive protein in a healthy Italian population," di Giuseppe R, Di Castelnuovo A, et al, J Nutr, 2008; 138(10): 1939-45.