Researchers at the University of Maine have found that chocolate intake is associated with improved cognitive function.
Tracking 968 participants ages 23-98, the researchers found that “more frequent chocolate consumption was significantly associated with better performance” in a number of cognitive tests, including Visual-Spatial Memory and Organization, Working Memory, Scanning and Tracking, Abstract Reasoning, and the Mini-Mental State Examination.
The authors explain that the findings support recent clinical trials suggesting that regular intake of cocoa flavanols may protect against age-related cognitive decline. Given the limited treatments for widespread mental afflictions like forgetfulness and dementia, chocolate may be a delicious treatment, the authors propose. They write, “Adopting dietary patterns to delay or slow the onset of cognitive decline is an appropriate avenue.”
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