As a food science expert with a focus on nutrition, I can tell you that Hershey's Special Dark chocolate can have some health benefits, but it's important to consider the context of your overall diet and lifestyle.

Dark chocolate, such as Hershey's Special Dark, is often touted for its potential health benefits due to the presence of flavonoids, which are antioxidants found in cocoa. These antioxidants may help to reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and lower blood pressure. Additionally, dark chocolate contains a higher percentage of cocoa solids than milk chocolate, which means it typically has less sugar and more cocoa flavanols.

However, it's crucial to note that not all dark chocolates are created equal. The health benefits are more pronounced in chocolate with a higher cocoa content, typically above 70%. Hershey's Special Dark is made with a blend of dark chocolate and milk chocolate, which means it contains less cocoa and more sugar and milk solids than pure dark chocolate.

Moreover, while dark chocolate can be part of a healthy diet, it should be consumed in moderation due to its calorie content. Overconsumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

In conclusion, Hershey's Special Dark chocolate can be a part of a balanced diet, but it's not a health food. It's best to enjoy it as an occasional treat and to choose dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content for more significant health benefits.

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Hershey's has extra-dark chocolate squares with 60 percent cacao, but the brand's special dark chocolate candy bar has only 45 percent cacao. ... For heart-health benefits, enjoy a 1-ounce portion of a high-percentage cacao dark chocolate three times per week.read more >>