Although many different polyphenols are
present in dark chocolate, emerging research has identified epicatechin as the primary cocoa
flavonol linked to the observed health benefits of dark chocolate, including cardiovascular health benefits.
Polyphenols, including flavonoids,
flavonols, catechins, and stilbenes are
present in the human diet in plant materials, where they act as antioxidants and protect the plant from damage from bacteria, fungi, and ultraviolet radiation.