Gaby
Tea, dark chocolate, apples, and berries are rich in flavonols. These organic compounds, found in many fruits and vegetables, can positively affect cognitive function.
A recent study found that people over 70 who consumed 500 milligrams of flavonols daily had better memory than those who didn’t.
Researchers from Columbia University and the University of Reading ran a large, three-year study of 3,562 people aged 70 and older, according to The Guardian. By the end of the study, they found that participants who regularly consumed enough flavonols showed better hippocampal function. The hippocampus, the brain region responsible for memory and learning, is one of the first areas affected by dementia.
How the Study Was Conducted
The researchers split volunteers into two groups. One group took 500 mg of flavonols daily as a dietary supplement; the other took placebo pills. Throughout the three years, participants completed tests that measured memory. The advantage clearly belonged to the supplement group: their memory scores—especially short-term memory—were significantly better.
Professor Edina Cassidy said the dose is easy to reach: 500 mg of flavonols can be found in a cup of tea, six squares of dark chocolate, and a couple of servings of apples and berries.
Scott Small, the study’s lead author, said the research underscores how certain nutrients can strengthen the aging body.
The team said studying the link between diet and memory could help fight dementia.
The results were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
