Preliminary study shows chocolate’s antioxidants may boost brain function

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A cocoa drink rich in the same antioxidants found in chocolate may help improve brain function in people with mild memory problems, according to a new study. The antioxidants, called flavanols, are found in tea, grapes, red wine, apples and especially in cocoa plants; their effect on brain function may be due to their ability to protect brain cells and to improve brain metabolism and blood flow, researchers said. However, the small study, conducted over eight weeks, needs replication in larger, more diverse groups over longer periods of time, and experts do not recommended increasing intake of chocolate or other foods with flavanols to decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s.
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