Similar results have been obtained in other population based studies as well. Moreover, there are experimental studies that examined the mechanisms how chocolate polyphenols such as epicatechin reduce platelet aggregation and improve endothelial function. Just because some studies are crap, doesn´t mean all of them are. Of 11 risk factors for cardiovascular disease the authors found 2 being improved (hypertension and risk for thromoboembolism), it is worth reading beyond just the abstract. These results are very clear, the study also has the advantage of a huge study population (more than 60.000 individuals).

The paper has been published by chinese cardiologists, I see no reason to believe the chocolate industry was involved.

Finally, this has nothing to do with Ms. Teicholtz and her peculiar theory about saturated fats, it is about cocoa polyphenols.

Dark chocolate is not some magic bullet. However, it is a great addition to a healthy diet.