Scientists found that those eating up to three bars monthly had a 13% lower risk of heart failure compared to those who avoided the treats.
Lead researcher Dr Chayakrit Krittanawong, from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York said: “I believe that chocolate is an important dietary source of flavonoids which are associated with reducing inflammation and increasing good cholesterol.”
Researchers said that natural compounds in coca called flavonoids boost blood vessel health and help reduce inflammation by an increase in nitric oxide.
However, they also warned against too much chocolate, with those who indulge experiencing a 17% increase in the risk of heart failure.
“Chocolate may have high levels of saturated fats. I would say moderate dark-chocolate consumption is good for health,” added Krittanawong.
The research, presented at the European Society of Cardiology, looked at studies involving more than 575,000 individuals.
Victoria Taylor, senior dietician at the British Heart Foundation, said that coca had been linked to a variety of health benefits. “This large-scale analysis suggests that enjoying a moderate amount of chocolate might protect you against heart failure, but too much can be detrimental.
“If you have a sweet tooth, make it an occasional small treat and go for dark chocolate with the highest coca content.”