LONDON -- Good news for chocoholics... a recent study shows even more evidence that the tasty confection is good for the heart.
Break out the Bon Bons! New data published in the recent issue of the British Medical Journal shows even more proof that chocolate is good for your heart.
British researchers analyzed the results of seven studies, that included more than 100,000 people with and without heart disease. They compared those who ate large amounts of chocolate, with those who ate very little, and found those who consumed more chocolate reduced the risk of having heart disease by more than one third. And chocolate-eaters were 29 percent less likely to have a stroke.
The studies included all types of chocolate, including dark and milk chocolate, as well as chocolate bars, drinks, biscuits and desserts. The studies did not differentiate between dark or milk chocolate, and included consumption of chocolate in bars, drinks and desserts.
In other major studies, usually dark chocolate was found to have the strongest benefits because it contains more antioxidants that reduce blood pressure and help ward off type two diabetes.
But researchers note the candy carries a double-edged sword. Although chocolate may be good for the heart, it is high in calories and in some cases fat, which can lead to obesity, diabetes and... heart disease.
Investigators recommend chocolate manufacturers find ways to cut out sugar and fat in chocolate. But for now, eating chocolate in moderation is key.
So how much chocolate do you eat? Do you enjoy it regularly, sparingly, or not at all? Leave a comment below and tell us about it!
Information from CNN and NBC News was used in this report.
