Chocolate and health aren't normally two things that we think of going hand in hand. Generally speaking, our favorite sweet belongs at the top of the food pyramid, along with fats, oils, and other items that experts say we should use sparingly.

However, if you identify as a chocolate lover, a study published by BMJ Journals has some very good news for you.

The observational study was conducted using a massive sample of 20,951 men and women who filled out comprehensive questionnaires detailing their eating habits.

The research concluded that middle-aged respondents who recorded eating a higher quantity of chocolate per week showed a lower risk for cardiovascular disease.

That's right – as it turns out, a little more chocolate in your diet might be exactly what the doctor ordered.

Still, it's important to learn exactly what this could mean for your heart health before you go raiding the candy aisle.

CLICK the link below to learn more about the science behind this tasty revelation – and don't forget to SHARE with your friends…