Do you take vitamin supplements in order to get the antioxidants you’re missing in your daily diet? If so, you may be interested in a study conducted by the Agricultural Research Service, which equated a higher cocoa content in chocolate with an increased availability of antioxidants.

Scientists have known for some time that chocolate contains antioxidants, which can reduce inflammation or even prevent oxidative damage caused by free radicals in the body. However, unlike dietary supplements, chocolate often contains plenty of sugar and saturated fats.

How best to get the anti-inflammatory benefits of chocolate while avoiding some if its fats content? Researchers determined that more cocoa powder in a product indicates more antioxidants.

They emphasized that chocolate should be eaten in strict moderation, even the dark or baker’s varieties. Still, an occasional square of high-cocoa chocolate may give the body an invigorating dose of antioxidants and other nutrients.

If you cannot conscience eating chocolate for your health, try sticking to herbal supplements and multivitamins, as part of a complete and balanced diet.