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Chocolate will be replaced by special cocoa capsules
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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Most people love chocolate, but not everyone knows that it is not only a tasty but also a healthy treat. Scientists have already proven that the substances and compounds contained in chocolate help to normalize blood pressure and strengthen the immune system, prevent blood clots, have a positive effect on the nervous system, etc.
In addition, experts have found that chocolate helps improve vision and brain activity. These properties were attributed to chocolate due to the substances contained in cocoa - flavonols. As studies show, these compounds improve cerebral circulation, and also, according to scientists, affect the retina. In earlier studies, it was possible to find out that people over 25 years of age are more effective in consuming chocolate.
Considering all the beneficial properties of chocolate, experts decided to start a study, during which they tried to establish whether tablets containing substances and compounds from dark chocolate are able to prevent heart problems, strokes, etc. Scientists decided to test the effectiveness of tablets, the main substance of which is flavonols, on 18 thousand volunteers.
The research project uses special additives with a high content of cocoa extract with flavonols. Such compounds were developed and patented by the Mars company, which produces chocolate bars (M&Ms, Snickers, etc.). Many companies sell similar additives with cocoa extract, but in the research project, scientists used capsules with a very high concentration of active substances.
Experts noted that during the processing of cocoa beans, flavonols are destroyed in most cases, so, from a benefit point of view, capsules with cocoa extract are an ideal option.
Scientists are planning a long-term research project, during which the participants of the experiment will be divided into two groups over four years, and the first group will receive a placebo or the required dose of multivitamins, the second - two capsules containing flavonols. Scientists plan to obtain results in three years.
Previous studies have shown that flavonols can be of great help to patients suffering from dementia. 20 volunteers with different types of dementia were given cocoa extract with different concentrations, after which the participants were asked to perform some exercises to stimulate brain activity. According to the results of the study, experts found that the extract – cocoa with flavonols increased cerebral blood flow, dilated blood vessels.
The lead researcher of the research project noted that flavonols used in food supplements can help improve brain activity in both older people and people who suffer from cognitive impairment, such as chronic fatigue syndrome.
Flavonols have been the focus of attention in the scientific community lately. This substance is found not only in cocoa beans, but also in tea, grapes, and apples.
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