Chocolate Lovers Rejoice! Cocoa May Improve Blood Flow to the Brain

The AP is reporting (via MSNBC) [1] on a new study that indicates that the right types of cocoa, high in the antioxidants known as flavanols, may increase bloodflow to the brain. Yet another reason to indulge in some after dinner chocolate! ;)

One potential source of help may be flavanols, an antioxidant found in cocoa beans that can increase blood flow to the brain, researchers said Sunday at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Ian MacDonald of England’s University of Nottingham reported on tests given to young women who were asked to do a complex task while their brains were being studied with magnetic resonance imaging.

Among the women given drinks of cocoa high in flavanols, there was a significant increase in blood flow to the brain compared with subjects who did not drink the cocoa, he said.

The researchers do warn not to “overdo” your chocolate intake to increase cocoa consumption. Most chocolate is high in fat and calories, and most commercial cocoa is low in flavanols which are typically removed due to the bitter taste they depart.