A new study explains the molecular brain mechanisms by which cocoa compounds can protect the aging brain against neurodegenerative diseases.
April 12/Rome/Medical Daily -- A new study explains the molecular brain mechanisms by which cocoa compounds can protect the aging brain against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
It is well established that chocolate contains pleasure-inducing and mood-enhancing chemicals, and previous studies have touted cocoa's rich antioxidant and brain-boosting properties. Recent studies have supported the ability of chocolate compounds called flavanols to protect neuron cells against degeneration and dementia. The new research confirms the antioxidant properties of polyphenols, the larger class of compounds that includes flavanols, and establishes how they work to protect the brain on a cellular level.