Dark chocolate and berries may boost memory in under an hour, suggests new Japanese research.
Flavanols in dark chocolate and berries boost memory
A compound found in dark chocolate and certain berries may enhance memory within less than an hour, according to research conducted by Japanese scientists. The study, led by Professor Yasuyuki Fujii from the Shibaura Institute of Technology, involved administering flavanols—natural antioxidants found in high quantities in cocoa and berries—to rodents before a memory test.Rodents showed improved memory after flavanol intake
The results showed that one hour after consumption, the animals that had consumed flavanols explored new objects significantly more than the control group. Their ability to recognize new objects increased by approximately 30%.Brain activity linked to memory and motivation increased
Observations of the rodents' brains revealed increased activity in areas related to memory and motivation, accompanied by a spike in adrenaline. This suggests that flavanols may influence neural processes associated with cognitive function.Flavanols' effects bypass the digestive system
The study suggests that the effect of flavanols is not due to digestion, as these compounds are poorly absorbed by the digestive system. Instead, the researchers propose that the slightly bitter and unpleasant sensation in the mouth activates receptors, which may be responsible for the observed cognitive benefits.
