By Beth Fontenot, MS, RD, LDN

Chocolate may not be health food, but its health benefits continue to mount. A new study from Italy suggests that chocolate may improve walking ability in people with poor blood flow in their legs because of peripheral artery disease (PAD). 

In PAD plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to the head, organs, arms, and legs. limiting the flow of blood to those parts of the body. People with PAD often experience pain and numbness in their legs, as well as an increased risk of infection. 

Chocolate can help; or at least dark chocolate can.