Sibö, Better for You

Your mind, body, spirit on chocolate

A study of 20,000 people published in the Journal of Nutrition, found 6.7 grams -- about 1/4 of an ounce -- of chocolate per day is the ideal amount for a protective effect against inflammation -- a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

People having moderate amounts of dark chocolate regularly have significantly lower levels of C-reactive protein in their blood -- a biomarker for inflammation.

"The 17 percent average reduction observed may appear quite small but it is enough to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease for one-third in women and one-fourth in men. It is undoubtedly a remarkable outcome," lead author Romina di Giuseppe said in a statement.

"The best effect is obtained by consuming an average amount of 6.7 grams of chocolate per day, corresponding to a small square of chocolate twice or three times a week but beyond these amounts the beneficial effect tends to disappear."