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Drinking cocoa could make you smarter

Plant molecules called flavanol found in cocoa can improve your cognitive abilities

24-Nov-2020

Key points from article :

Increased consumption of flavanols can increase your mental agility.

18 healthy male participants aged between 18 and 40 underwent a trial.

People given a cocoa (flavanol rich) drink completed cognitive tasks more efficiently.

They also had a faster & greater increase in blood O2 levels in response to artificially elevated levels of CO2.

Flavanols are present in cocoa, grapes, apples, tea, berries and other foods.

"Understanding the cognitive benefits of these food groups, as well as cardiovascular benefits, we can offer improved guidance to people about how to make the most of their dietary choices." Dr Catarina Rendeiro, lead author.

Research by University of Birmingham published in Scientific Reports.

Mentioned in this article:

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Catarina Rendeiro

Researcher at University of Birmingham's School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences

Scientific Reports

Scientific Journal providing information from all areas of the natural sciences

University of Birmingham

Public research university located in Edgbaston, United Kingdom

Topics mentioned on this page:
Chocolate, Mental Wellbeing