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(Image source: Los Angeles Times / Ricardo DeAratanha)
BY JOHN O'CONNOR
Looking for another reason to indulge in chocolate? Well, look no further — a new study shows
the sweet treat may sharpen your mind. (Via Fox News)
"Researchers say it may help improve brain health and thinking skills, specifically when
it comes to memory and problem solving. Why? Researchers say chocolate improves blood flow
to your noggin — which in turn, improves brain function."
According to the study published in the journal Neurology, a Boston-based research team found
that older people who performed poorly on memory and reasoning tests generally improved
their scores after drinking two cups of cocoa every day for a month.
The Los Angeles Times explains this is because many chocolate products are high in flavanol
— an antioxidant associated with better brain and blood vessel function.
"Since they suspected flavanol would improve the subjects' thinking skills and blood flow
... the team found that after the hot cocoa regimen, individuals showed an 8% improvement
in blood flow and a roughly 1 minute faster reaction time on ... cognitive task[s]."
So, maybe those Snickers commercials aren't
so far-fetched after all ...
Assistant Coach: "Coach, eat a Snickers." Head Coach: "Why's that."
Assistant Coach: "You get a little loopy when you're hungry ... better?"
Head Coach: "Better."
Now, while researchers say chocolate does appear to improve brain function, there is
a better way to keep your mind sharp that doesn't involve all the excess sugar and fat
— exercise.