Eat Dark Chocolate To Improve Memory – Study

A new study has found eating of dark chocolate with a high concentration of cacao to ease stress and improve memory.

Lee Berk, a researcher in psychoneuroimmunology and food science from Loma Linda University, made the affirmation on Tuesday at the ongoing five-day Experimental Biology 2018 meeting in San Diego, the United States.

Advertisement

He said, “For years, we have looked at the influence of dark chocolate on neurological functions from the standpoint of sugar content.The more sugar, the happier we are”.

The study focused on the impact of 70 percent cacao (a major source of flavonoids) chocolate consumption on human immune and dendritic cell gene expression, with a concentration on pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Berk further explained that the study was made to assess the electroencephalography (EEG) response to consuming 48g of dark chocolate ( which is 70% cacao) within the time frame of 30 minutes and 120 minutes, on modulating brain frequencies 0-40Hz, specifically the beneficial gamma frequency (25-40Hz).

The result confirmed that dark chocolate with 70 percent cacao enhances neuroplasticity for behavioural benefits and brain boost.

Advertisement

“These studies show us that the higher the concentration of cacao, the more positive the impact on cognition, memory, mood, immunity and other beneficial effects.

“This is the first time that we have looked at the impact of large amounts of cacao in doses as small as a regular-sized chocolate bar in humans over short or long periods of time, and we are encouraged by the findings. Berk said

However, the study is said to be undergoing further investigation, especially to determine the significance of the effects on immune cells and the brain in larger study populations

Leave a comment

Advertisement