Heart Health: Cocoa flavanol benefits on circulation and the cardiovascular system have been extensively studied and published over the past two decades. Key studies highlight improvements in circulation, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, cholesterol levels (lower LDL & higher HDL), and insulin resistance.  A notable recent study, measuring inputs associated with the Framingham Risk Model, projected a 30% reduction in cardiovascular deaths over a ten year period. Below are publication summaries of clinical studies assessing the impact of cocoa flavanols on cardiovascular health: