Chocolate for your health

As we head off to the weekend, more good news for chocolate lovers.

Research was presented this week at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The indication: compounds in cocoa beans called 'flavanols' help increase blood flow in our brains. That may enhance how our brains function, improving both learning and memory.

Earlier research indicated cocoa flavanols could be good for our hearts by helping dilate blood vessels and preventing clots.

But it's not just any chocolate .. the darker the better - and of course, this isn't a license to gorge - but hey, if you're looking for a healthy, sweet treat, chocolate just moved up the 'food chain'.