28 Dec Improving Cognitive Health: Cocoa Flavanols and the Impact on Seniors’ Brain Function

Recent research suggests that supplements containing cocoa extract, particularly rich in flavanols, may contribute to improved cognitive function in older adults with lower-quality diets. The study, involving 573 participants, revealed significant cognitive benefits for those with suboptimal dietary habits at the study’s commencement. Nevertheless, there were no general improvements in cognitive function noted with the daily supplementation of cocoa extract.

Key Findings:

Daily intake of 500 mg of cocoa flavanols exhibited cognitive benefits in seniors with lower habitual diet quality.

Participants who were already adhering to healthy diets did not exhibit any cognitive improvement.

The study is part of the Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), a comprehensive clinical trial involving over 21,000 older adults.

Source: Mass General

Cocoa extract has emerged as a potential ally in preserving cognitive health, particularly in older adults. The Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), a large-scale clinical trial, explored the impact of cocoa flavanol supplementation on cognitive function in seniors. The findings, featured in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, provide insights into the intricate connection between cocoa extract and cognitive well-being.

Detailed Analysis:

The study involved 573 older adults who underwent thorough cognitive testing over two years. Contrary to initial expectations, the overall cognitive function showed no significant improvement with daily cocoa extract supplementation compared to a placebo. However, a closer examination revealed a noteworthy trend – participants with initially poorer dietary habits experienced cognitive benefits from the cocoa extract supplement.

The Cognitive Connection:

The findings, featured in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, provide insights into the intricate connection between cocoa extract and cognitive well-being. The study emphasized that individuals with already healthy dietary patterns did not show cognitive improvements, highlighting the potential targeted benefits for those with specific dietary needs.

COSMOS Insights:

COSMOS, initiated by Brigham and Women’s Hospital, is an extensive investigation encompassing more than 21,000 older adults. While the primary focus is on the impact of cocoa extract and multivitamins on heart disease, stroke, and cancer risk, the cognitive aspect is gaining attention. Continued examination of COSMOS data is consistently yielding valuable insights into the complex interconnections between supplements and the broader spectrum of human health.

Funding and Support:

Mars Edge, a division of Mars committed to nutrition research, played a crucial role in providing essential support to The COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS). Pfizer Consumer Healthcare (now Haleon) contributed to the study through the partial provision of study pills and packaging. Importantly, neither Mars Edge nor Pfizer Consumer Healthcare influenced data analyses, interpretation of results, or manuscript development.

While the overall cognitive benefits of cocoa extract supplementation might not be universally applicable, the targeted positive effects observed in seniors with poorer dietary habits open avenues for further exploration. As the exploration progresses, the intricate interplay between cocoa flavanols, dietary patterns, and cognitive health in older adults unravels, presenting fresh opportunities for customized strategies to improve brain function in specific populations.