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More good news for chocolate lovers.

Healthy antioxidants and weight loss perks aren’t the only benefits of dark chocolate.

A recent study has found that the flavanols in dark chocolate can help lower blood pressure.

There are multiple lines of inquiry into flavanols in chocolate. For instance, we’ve told you about preliminary research that has found the compounds in cocoa can inhibit the activity of a digestive enzyme and block the breakdown of fat.

The new review on blood pressure included 20 studies varying in length from two to 18 weeks. Volunteers in the studies consumed dark chocolate or cocoa powder each day ranging from 3 to 100 grams (a regular-size 1.5-ounce Hershey bar is about 43 grams). And the results? Overall, there were small reductions in blood pressure, averaging 2-3 mm Hg. (Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury.)

As always the key is moderation.

Overindulgence in sweets is not the answer.

Limited portions of dark chocolate (1 ounce daily), does the trick.

Some of us need no encouragement to treat ourselves to deep dark rich chocolate.

But for those of us feeling guilty when it comes to treating ourselves worry no more!

Stick to moderate amounts of high quality dark chocolate.

It is rich in antioxidants and flavanols which are good for your cardiovascular system.

Chocolate can indeed be good for your heart.