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The real stuff is packed with antioxidants and good fat! It’ll keep you alert too!

Research has shown that, post-chocolate, women often feel two emotions: joy and guilt. Score more of the former by sticking with at least 70-percent cocoa dark chocolate. Milk chocolate packs more sugar and fat, while white has close to zero health perks. Around two small squares per day can augment your…

Brain

Cocoa antioxidants called polyphenols can help increase blood flow to your noggin, improving smarts and memory. Countries high in per-capita chocolate consumption produce lots of Nobel Prize winners. #JustSaying

Heart

Epicatechin, one of the compounds that lends cocoa its bitter taste, can lower blood pressure. Plus, two 30g servings of the dark treat a week could cut your stroke risk by up to 20 percent.

Energy

That same epicatechin can amp your cells’ mitochondrial function. That’s science-speak for: it may help lend you surges of extra energy. On that note, while chocolate does contain some caffeine, that’s not its only buzz factor. The darker the chocolate, the more of the stimulating chemical theobromine it has.

Mood

Cocoa-butter fats can trigger natural endorphins and tiny amounts of anandamide, a marijuana-like brain chemical. Don’t worry, it’s a happiness lift, not a high.

Cravings

Ever feel like you Must. Have. Chocolate? Eating it can light up your brain’s frontal lobe – aka its reward centre – similar to how addictive drugs can, leaving your body screaming for more and more.

Weight-Loss

Now for the best news ever: research has found that regular chocolate eaters were slimmer than those who abstained altogether. After all, it is a staple on the Sirtfood menu. Just don’t plow through your sweet stash all at once.

So, ready to get your chocolate fix on? Try these delicious chocolate recipes (they’re so good, you won’t believe they’re healthy).