Boost Your Brain With Chocolate

Did you know the chocolate you guiltily snack on could actually be making you smarter? It’s true, thanks to the flavonoids it contains.

Flavonoids are substances found in a variety of fruits and vegetables that, when digested, can provide health benefits. In the case of cocoa, flavonoids can account for up to 20% of the compounds found in the bean.

In a study done by the Samson Institute for Health at the University of South Australia, it was discovered that those who ate chocolate at least once per week had better mental performance than those who did not consume chocolate.

Chocolate’s benefits don’t stop there though. Throughout time, cocoa flavonoids have been thought to cure a host of ailments. Recent studies on stroke sufferers showed that a particular flavonoid, identified as epicatechin, might increase the cellular signals that prevent damage to nerve cells.

Diabetics can also benefit, as seen in a study where participants were given a cocoa drink containing a high level of flavonoids for one month. Their blood vessel function improved as much as those who engaged in exercise and took diabetes medications.

So next time you feel the chocolate craving coming on, go ahead and indulge. A little low-sugar, organic chocolate bar can do your brain some good.