Daily Cocoa Flavanol Consumption Shown to Improve Cognitive Function in Older Adults

Germantown, Maryland (ots/PRNewswire) -

A study conducted by researchers from the University of L'Aquila
in Italy and Mars, Incorporated provides compelling new evidence that
the regular consumption of dietary cocoa flavanols may improve
cognitive function in elderly subjects with early memory decline.
Just published online in the journal Hypertension, this current study
significantly advances understanding of the benefits of flavanols by
specifically exploring the impact of regular cocoa flavanol
consumption on cognitive function in a population with Mild Cognitive
Impairment (MCI). Previous research has suggested that the benefits
of cocoa flavanols could extend to the brain. However, these studies
were either only short-term or did not demonstrate a consistent
cognitive benefit. This unique study addresses this gap and provides
important insights into the possibility of slowing or even reversing
cognitive declines associated with aging through consumption of these
natural compounds.

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Flavanols are a group of natural compounds that are particularly
abundant in cocoa. A significant body of published research has shown
that consumption of cocoa flavanols helps support healthy circulation
and cardiovascular health.

"For the first time, regular cocoa flavanol consumption has been
shown to positively affect cognitive function in older adults with
early memory decline," commented study author Dr. Giovambattista
Desideri, Director of the Geriatric Division of the University of
L'Aquila. "Importantly, the improvements in cognitive function were
seen over a relatively short period of time; and, while further
research is required to confirm and expand on these findings, this
provides encouraging evidence that regular consumption of cocoa
flavanols might be effective in improving cognitive function in
elderly subjects with Mild Cognitive Impairment. The findings provide
promising indications that the development of novel dietary
approaches for improving health as we age - especially cognitive
health - is a real possibility."

Contacts: Marlene Machut Mars, Incorporated
+1-301-444-7586 Marlene.Machut@mss.effem.com Julian
Hill CNC +44-7825-768-740
Julian.Hill@cnc-communications.com

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