Older adults may experience a boost in cognitive function by taking daily cocoa extract supplements, according to new research. A randomised clinical trial found that those with lower diet quality who took the supplements for two years saw modest improvements in cognitive function. However, individuals with healthy dietary patterns did not experience the same benefits.
The study, conducted by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Massachusetts General Hospital, included 573 older males and females. Participants were randomly assigned to take either daily cocoa extract or an inactive placebo. The average age of participants was 70 years, with approximately half of them being female.
Flavanols, a sub-class of plant compounds known as flavonoids, are the key components of cocoa extract. These flavanols are also found in teas, cocoa-based products, grapes, apples, and berries. The cocoa extract group took two capsules a day, totaling 500 milligrams of cocoa flavanols, including 80 milligrams of epicatechin.
Cognitive testing was conducted at the beginning of the study and repeated two years later. The results showed that daily cocoa extract supplements had no effect on overall cognition for the entire group. However, when the researchers analysed data for participants with lower diet quality at the start of the study, they found that those taking the cocoa supplements experienced relatively better changes in overall cognition and executive function.
Executive function refers to a set of cognitive skills necessary for self-control and managing behaviours. The findings of this study align with a previous research conducted among participants of the larger Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), which demonstrated that daily flavanols improved a specific type of memory in older adults with lower diet quality.
It is important to note that another COSMOS study found that daily multivitamin/mineral supplements improved overall cognition, but cocoa extract had no effect. However, this particular study did not separate participants by diet quality.
While these findings suggest a potential benefit of cocoa extract supplements on cognition for individuals with lower diet quality, more research is needed before recommending their use. People should exercise caution against daily supplementation of cocoa extract for cognitive function preservation based on these results. However, he emphasises the significance of considering diet and nutritional status in future trials assessing the impact of cocoa extract supplements on cognition.
It is intriguing that the results indicate that cocoa extract supplements do not benefit people with better diet quality. This suggests that improving diet quality may eliminate the need for such supplements. However, for individuals who are unable to improve their diets or have dietary deficiencies, cocoa extract supplements or multivitamins could potentially bridge that nutritional gap. It is always important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
In addition to considering cocoa extract supplements, there are various steps individuals can take to reduce the risk of dementia, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Maintaining a healthy, diverse, and nutritious diet is crucial for brain health. Different types of foods offer various nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals such as flavonoids. Incorporating regular physical activity, fostering an active social life, engaging in activities that stimulate the brain, ensuring good quality and quantity of sleep, and practicing stress reduction techniques are also essential.
It is never too early or too late to embrace these multifaceted lifestyle changes. Although more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of cocoa extract supplements on cognitive function, individuals can start making positive changes in their diet and lifestyle today to promote better brain health.
While daily cocoa extract supplements may offer cognitive benefits to older adults with lower diet quality, further research is required before making definitive recommendations. The study underscores the importance of considering diet and nutrition when evaluating the impact of cocoa extract supplements on cognition. Encouraging healthier dietary patterns and adopting a comprehensive approach to brain health through lifestyle modifications remain essential strategies for reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
