
The focus of the recent study was on seniors with mild cognitive impairment (difficulty with memory, language, thinking or judgement.) The study found that those who consumed high and medium levels of antioxidants, called flavanols, from chocolate or cocoa drinks outperformed others on tests of attention and other mental skills.
Obviously, such consumption would need to be part of a calorie controlled and nutritionally balanced diet. Other studies have linked the beneficial effect of dark chocolate with protection against intestinal diseases like colon cancer, as well as a reduced risk of developing heart disease. (NY Daily News)