Rising numbers of men are becoming chocoholics to cope with the stress of the economic downturn.

That’s according to research by a grocer’s trade magazine which appears on page 8 of the Telegraph this morning.

Market analysts have found that the number of times that men have indulged has risen 10.5% year on year, compared to a 4.5% increase in women.

Dr. Siri Harrison of the City Psychology Group practice said that “traditional male jobs are being lost, unemployment rates are soaring and those that remain employed fear redundancy.

These issues are placing pressure on men and they are seeking comfort through the age old tradition of self medicating with sugar”.