Dark chocolate, loved by both children and adults, has long been a subject of active discussion. While consumers debate whether this calorie-rich treat can be beneficial, scientists are exploring it from various angles. The results sound promising. This product contains many beneficial substances necessary for maintaining health. A recent study conducted by American scientists aimed to determine how dark chocolate affects people with dementia.
American researchers sought to determine whether cocoa extract found in dark chocolate can improve overall cognitive functions and episodic memory (memories of specific events).
This task was set by specialists conducting a study among 573 patients at the Mass General Brigham clinic in Boston. The average age of participants was 70 years, with 51 percent being men and 49 percent being women. All participants underwent a series of cognitive and psychological tests before and after the experiment.
About half of the participants (285 people) took 500 milligrams of cocoa extract supplements daily, containing 80 milligrams of flavanol, while 288 subjects were given a placebo. After two years – the duration of the experiment – the researchers found that the group of patients consuming dark chocolate performed better on memory tests compared to the team taking the placebo.
The Benefits of Dark Chocolate for People with Dementia
Cognitive decline is a gradual deterioration of memory and thinking, manifested as memory loss, confusion, and difficulties in performing routine tasks. This usually occurs as a result of aging, so combating this process in older age may reduce the risk of developing degenerative disorders, particularly dementia.
The benefits of cocoa, which is part of the treat, lie in flavanol. Its molecules reduce inflammation and degeneration in the brain, positively affecting the condition of people with dementia.
Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols. In 100 grams of this sweet product, there are 170 milligrams of this valuable substance, while milk chocolate contains only 75 milligrams per 100 grams. This is due to the higher cocoa extract content in quality dark chocolate, reports the portal sozcu.com.tr.
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