Americans are getting fatter.

At the rate we’re going 83 percent of American men will be overweight or obese by 2020 followed by women at 72 percent projected to be overweight or obese by then, as well.

The implications go far beyond tight pants and groaning sofas. Obesity is a big risk factor for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Imagining an America of overweight, unhealthy people gives public health officials the willies. And it should be frightening to us civilians, too.

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.