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As temperatures drop, our desire for hot drinks increases. That’s good, among our favorite winter drinks, one would have the ability to increase our cognitive abilities. Enough to sip our cup without feeling guilty!
As the cold sets in, the hot drink break becomes more regular. Tea, latte, cappuccino… what to choose to feel good? A university unveils another option, beneficial for our comfort and for our brain.
Hot chocolate, a drink good for the brain
The scientists asked 18 healthy men aged 18 to 40 to breathe 5% carbon dioxide (around 100 times the normal concentration in the air), to test brain blood circulation. They then analyzed changes in brain oxygenation levels in the subjects’ frontal cortex. They then performed a battery of increasingly complex cognitive tests.
Each participant underwent the test before and after drinking hot chocolate, which has the particularity of being rich in flavonoids and more particularly in flavanols, antioxidant compounds. With what results? A brain that works better and faster! The researchers observed significant differences in the speed and precision with which the volunteers then completed the most complex tasks. Those who had hot chocolate completed the tasks 11% faster on average than those who did not. Their blood oxygenation being higher than in the other participants.
Flavanols, an aid to concentration
Does hot chocolate make us smarter? Let’s say it can accelerate our cognitive speed. “We can relate this to our findings on improving blood oxygenation; if you are challenged, your brain needs better blood oxygen levels to handle that challenge. This also suggests that Flavanols may be particularly beneficial during demanding cognitive tasks.” writes Dr. Catarina Rendeiro, lead author of the study.
This is not their only advantage: flavanols are already associated with beneficial effects for cardiovascular health and can help lower blood pressure. Previous studies have also shown that flavanols could help maintain memory and cognitive function as we age. Good news for those who like to enjoy a good cup under a blanket to end the day.
Slide: Ten foods rich in flavonoids