In what should be greeted with joy for many people, British investigators have reported in the British Medical Journal that high levels of chocolate consumption compared with the lowest levels of consumption reduced the risk of heart disease by 37% and stroke by 29%. The study was a meta-analysis of six studies, with some individual studies also showing a positive correlation between  chocolate and diabetes (but only in men!). There was no association between chocolate and heart failure.

In these studies, all types of chocolate were used, including milk, dark and white, and all forms were included, including bars, chocolate drinks, snacks and even supplements. Most studies were in whites, although one included Hispanics and another included African-Americans.

COMMENT: Chocolate is known to have beneficial effects due to their concentration of polyphenols, also found in wine. Previously, it has been thought that dark chocolate is the only form that has beneficial effects and it most likely still is the best, but other forms may have benefits as well. Just realize that over-consumption can have harmful effects, especially with weight gain, which can negate the beneficial effects. One chocolate drink or one bar of chocolate may suffice to provide benefits without unwanted weight gain.