Dark chocolate contains a higher cocoa content, increasing this process. 'In our study we found that the fibre is fermented and the large polyphenolic polymers are metabolised to smaller molecules, which are more easily absorbed,' said Dr John Finley, who led the Louisiana team.
What's more, studies show that daily doses as low as 81 milligrams -- the amount in a baby aspirin -- can reduce the odds of heart attacks and strokes in people who are at risk. About 25 million Americans take aspirin for heart disease protection every day. But there's a catch. Like any other drug, aspirin has dangers.
Some adults take aspirin every day under doctor's supervision. The usual dose to help prevent heart attacks ranges from 81 to 325 milligrams, states Mayo Clinic. Adult patients with arthritis often take 3 grams of aspirin divided into multiple doses, Drugs.com says. A daily dose of 75 to 325 milligrams is sometimes used to prevent a stroke. If an adult has already had a stroke, 50 to 325 milligrams of aspirin is prescribed. Learn more about Medications & Vitamins