Dark chocolate improves cognitive function and can slow the development of dementia.
Regular consumption of cocoa helps to improve the symptoms of mild cognitive impairment - a condition associated with memory loss that can progress to dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers from the University of Aquila in Italy conducted a study involving 90 people. Participants are divided into 3 groups, depending on the amount of drinks consumed, with a high content of cocoa.
The drink contains flavanols . They are known to help reduce the risk of dementia. They are found in a variety of foods, including cocoa products such as dark chocolate.
Participants' menu is limited to exclude other sources of flavanols, such as tea or red wine.
Through tests, scientists also examine the cognitive function of volunteers - working memory and speed of information processing.
Within 8 weeks, experts found that people who regularly drank cocoa had significantly better cognitive performance in a number of categories, including working memory.
Insulin resistance and blood pressure also decreased in participants who regularly consumed beverages containing flavanols.
The study shows that cocoa consumption, as part of a balanced, calorie-controlled diet, can improve cognitive function, the research team said.
The results are published in the journal Hypertension .