A new study conducted by Harvard University found that drinking just two cups of hot chocolate a day for 30 days brought about better blood circulation in the brain and higher scores at memory and cognitive test for mature people. Researchers found that memory and blood flow to the brain have a 'neurological and vascular connection".
"We are learning more and more about the blood flow to the brain and its influence on cognitive thinking skills," says Dr. Sorond Farzaneh, of the Medical faculty. "When different areas in the brain need more energy to complete tasks, they need more blood. This relationship plays a very important role in various diseases and symptoms like Alzheimer's.
The study was publish in the 'Neurology' journal and included about 60 people of ages 65 and up. Out of these, 18 had bad blood flow. Half of the participants drank hot cocoa rich with antioxidants, while the other half drank hot chocolate that is not particularly rich in antioxidants. However, after a month (in which the participants were not allowed to consume chocolate), those with bad blood flow experienced an 8.3% improvement in their blood flow (a big number when we're talking about health), with both types of coco having the same effect.
"From a medical standpoint," wrote the researchers, "the effect of hot chocolate on the blood vessels doesn't seem to be connected to antioxidants."
Now, of course hot chocolate is not the only food to give your brain a push, but it's always good to add something sweet to the menu that actually helps!
|
11 Health Benefits of the Glasswort Plant
In addition to reducing sodium intake, salicornia has several other health benefits that we think you should know about...
Vitamin Blast: The Best Vegan Sources of Vitamin D
Here's a dive into various beverages packed with nutrients vital for daily wellness and immune defense against viruses.
Tasty and Healthy: 15 Herbs That Improve Brain Function
What's common among all the following plants is that each can improve the function of the most important organ in your body - the brain.
Doctor's Advice: The Truth About Calcium Supplements
Discover the truth about calcium supplements and if they are safe to use.
12 Superfoods That Burn the Fat Off Your Diet!
These great superfoods should be part of everyone's meal!
This Diet Slows Down Hearing Loss
Certain diets can preserve and maintain good hearing while slowing hear loss.
Melt Away Neck Pain and Tension Headaches With These Tips!
Tension at the base of the neck is a common cause of tension headaches, neck pain, and many other issues. Let these 3 exercises help you in just a few minutes!
10 Delicious Casserole Dishes That Are Also Low in Fat
10 mouth watering casserole recipes that contain less than 300 calories per serving
Sleep Better: Tips for Seniors with Insomnia
Seniors who are struggling with lack of sleep at night will find this video very helpful.
Study: A Daily Spoon of Olive Oil Lowers Risk of Dementia
s. A comprehensive study from the United States suggests that consuming just a spoonful of olive oil each day could significantly reduce the risk of dementia-related deaths.
The Best Exercises to Stop Your Slouch
You don’t need to live with your slouch as you age. There are some easy fixes for it.
WATCH: What Causes Floaters in Your Eyes?
We can often see things floating around our field of vision, but what are they? This science video explains all.
9 Things Your Fingernails Can Tell You About Your Health
This video delves into nine revealing aspects of your fingernails that could signal important information about your health.
Shocking! This Is What Chocolate Does to Your Arteries...
Can chocolate cause strokes? Find out in this informative video from Dr. Greger.
Heart Arrhythmia: What is it and How to Live With It
In this video, we'll explain what arrhythmias are, their different types, and how to manage them.
Looking at Caffeine, Shampoo and Rosemary for Hair Growth
Looking at the real research done behind these ingredients helps us see which really help and which still needs more research to know if they are effective on humans.
Did You Know Your Ears Hold Secrets About Your Heart?
Could that small vertical mark on your ear have something to do with heart disease? Here is a simple test that could protect you from serious damage to your health.
Say Goodbye to Your Double Chin with These 5 Exercises
These 5 exercises will help give your chin a tighter, younger, and healthier look, and eventually to help you get rid of a double chin all together.
The Health Benefits of Waking Up to Lemon Water
Lemon water is nutritious, here is why you should drink water with lemon every day.
25 Things About the Human Eye That Will Surprise You
Ophthalmologist Ashley Brissette, MD answers common eye-related questions for you.
This Common Habit Could Be Quickening Your Ageing Process
Watching TV is a great way to relax, but if you get into the habit of doing it regularly, you'll be surprised how much it negatively affects how your body ages.
Relieve Pain in the Feet and Heels in Just a Few Minutes!
Do you experience frequent pain at the bottom of the feet? If so, check out these simple exercises for instant relief!
9 Effective Ways to Make Your Nausea Go Away
Nausea is that unpleasant feeling of discomfort inside your stomach, oftentimes leading to vomiting. Use one of these natural methods to stop it.
How to Get Rid of Eye Floaters: Natural Remedies
A doctor explains how to get rid of eye floaters.
Everything You Wanted to Know About Healthy Tropical Fruits
Learn about eight easy-to-come-by tropical fruit that are both delicious and oh-so-healthy for you!
What Happens if You Consume Ginger Every Day?
Join us as we unravel the myriad ways ginger could influence your health and well-being.
Is Breakfast REALLY the Most Important Meal?
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day - truth or myth? Watch to find out what happens to your body when you stop eating breakfast for two weeks.
These Weigh Loss Myths are Common But Simply Not True
A video where dietitians debunk 18 common misconceptions on weight loss.
Foot Hurts When Walking? Avoid These Mistakes!
Does your foot hurt while walking? You might be making some mistakes without even realizing.
Here’s How You Can Lose the Fat UNDERNEATH Your Belly
Visceral fat is found inside your abdominal cavity. Getting rid of it can be a challenge, but not if you follow these simple tips.
No Gym Needed! Easy Door Exercise for Stronger Knees
These door exercises help seniors with knee pain.
MUST WATCH: Full-Body Chair Workout Guide for Seniors
This full chair workout for seniors covers every area of your body!
Which Is Better for You: Brown or White Eggs?
Are brown eggs really healthier than white eggs? Let’s find out.
9 Foods That Will Protect Your Skin From the Sun
These 9 foods each contributes something to the fight between your skin and the harmful UV rays of the sun.
Vitamin Blast: The Best Vegan Sources of Vitamin D
Here's a dive into various beverages packed with nutrients vital for daily wellness and immune defense against viruses.
These Tips Can Help You Beat Diabetes in 4 Weeks!
Can you really beat diabetes? These hacks are worth a try...
Here's a Quick Guide to Instantly Clearing a Blocked Nose
Got a congested nose? Remember these priceless tricks and thank us later!
Feeling Bloated? This Is How to Improve Digestion Quickly
How can you improve your digestion quickly? This guide explains.
Doctor Tip: The Benefits and the Myths of Probiotics
In this video, a doctor explains all about probiotics, facts and myths.
HOW MUCH Exercise Do I Need to Burn Off These Foods?
Before you go for that takeaway, you should see how much exercise you will need to do to burn off those calories. This chart will show you.
Zero Sugar: What You REALLY Need to Know
Are zero sugar foods really healthy? Let’s find out…
Constantly Clearing Your Throat? Try These Remedies
Frustrated with constant throat clearing? Try these remedies.
10 Recipes for Health Boosting, Natural Smoothies
Learn easy recipes for super-healthy smoothies you can whip out in no time.
What Happens When You Quit Sugar? You'll Be Surprised!
What happens to your body when you quit sugar? Find out!
Learn Three Vagus Nerve Exercises for Anxiety Relief
In this video, you'll be shown three exercises of the vagus nerve to help mitigate anxiety and promote peacefulness.
Losing Muscle in Your Mature Years? Here's What You Do...
Struggling with muscle loss? Here’s how to fight back…