Good news to all those choco-lovers out there: a new study has found that __chocolate can help keep your brain healthy and sharp a__nd might even delay diseases that affect your memory, like Alzheimers.
As if we all needed more reason to indulge in a yummy sweet treat!
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The study, conducted by Harvard researchers and published in the journal Neurology, examined 60 people over age 65 (with an average age of 73) as they drank two cups of hot cocoa a day over a month-long period. 18 of the participants started the study with impaired blood flow. The volunteers were not allowed to consume any other forms of chocolate during that time.
The results? The people who initially had impaired blood flow saw an improvement in blood flow by 8.3 percent and scored higher on memory and thinking skill tests.
But don't break out that box of truffles just yet–scientists maintain more research is needed to reveal the exact link between cocoa and sharper thinking. And obviously overindulgence of anything sugary or caffeinated isn't healthy.
Still, it does give chocolate fiends like me some hope. Of course, if you're not a chocolate fan (HOW?!), there are plenty of other yummy brain-boosting foods out there. Check out some of them (including a couple of our favorite Latin food staples!) below:
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Walnuts
Walnuts are chock-full of heart-healthy nutrients, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which help improve blood flow to the brain and boosts mental performance.
Avocado
Avocados are full of monosaturated fats that contributes to healthy blood flow. Just remember to consume in moderation!
Berries
Research has found that the anti-inflammatory powers of berries could help your risk for Parkinson’s disease. Blueberries, strawberries and others have also been linked to a slower mental decline in areas like memory and focus.
Black beans
Like many Latinas, I LOVE black beans and could eat them all day. Luckily for me, they're chock- full of antioxidants that have been shown to improve brain function.
Garlic
According to certain reearch studies, garlic may help stave off some forms of brain cancer. Plus, the nearly 100 nutrients packed in this food also have anti-inflammatory qualitise.
