Want to show that special person in your life how much you care? If you give a box of chocolates, your present will be more than just a sweet reward.

With growing research indicating that dark chocolate has cardiovascular and other health benefits, that box of candy may be more than a taste treat for your loved one. In fact, you may want to buy a box for yourself.

Possible health benefits

Scientists studying the health benefits of chocolate have found that antioxidant chemicals in the cocoa plant, from which chocolate is made, help to improve blood flow, thus reducing the likelihood that blood clots will form and cause strokes or heart attacks. Other reports have suggested that these flavonols in dark chocolate may lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, even reduce insulin resistance and help control blood sugar.

Smaller studies on flavonols have found they may also help ease diarrhea symptoms and enhance the appearance of your skin.

Dark vs. milk chocolate

According to researchers, flavonols are most potent and therefore most beneficial in dark chocolates. Look for lower-sugar chocolates boasting a high cocoa content -- bars with 70 percent and 85 percent cocoa can now be found even in supermarkets and discount stores.

When manufacturers add milk and fat to chocolate to give milk chocolate that creamy, rich flavor, cocoa flavonol levels are significantly reduced. So if you prefer the creamy taste, you must sacrifice the potential health benefits.