If you feel guilty indulging in your sweet tooth, rest easy: Numerous studies have shown that chocolate consumption can benefit your heart health. That said, this doesn’t apply to all chocolates equally! Dark chocolate has minimal sugar and has specifically been proven to do good. Read on to find out how.

3 Excuses to Eat Dark Chocolate

1. Reduce High Blood Pressure

A Harvard University study brought joy to chocolate lovers when it revealed that eating a bit of this treat on a daily basis can help lower blood pressure. The study analyzed the consumption of dark chocolate containing at least 50-70% cocoa. Not only did it lower blood pressure in all study participants, but it also decreased LDL cholesterol—the “bad” kind—and increased HDL cholesterol—the “good” kind.

2. Improve Heart Health

A study conducted in the Netherlands and published in The FASEB Journal indicated that dark chocolate consumption could combat atherosclerosis. The condition refers to the thickening and hardening of arteries, which is a leading cause of heart attacks. Regularly eating dark chocolate was seen to restore arterial flexibility and prevent white blood cells from sticking to the vessel walls.

3. Reduce Stroke Risk

In addition to raising your heart attack risk, atherosclerosis also increases the odds of having a stroke. If the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and plaques on the arterial walls burst and are dislodged from the artery’s wall, it can trigger a blood clot. This may explain why a study led by researchers at the University of Aberdeen and published in the BMJ’s Heart magazine linked higher chocolate intake with a lower risk of both cardiovascular events.

Have concerns about your heart health? DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, M.D., P.A. in Rochelle Park, NJ, can provide you with expert insight. The practice is comprised of board certified cardiovascular physicians who specialize in the treatment of heart diseases, performing both cardiac and peripheral interventions. Whether you are concerned about high blood pressure or need advice regarding a heart-healthy diet, these specialists can help. Visit their website for more information about their services. To schedule an appointment, call (201) 845-3535.