Studies suggest that compounds called flavanols have multiple health benefits, including a potential positive impact on memory and cognitive health.
Flavanols are natural compounds found in plant-based foods like cocoa, tea, and certain fruits. Over the last several years, they have gained attention from medical professionals due to their potential health benefits.
Old age has come to be associated with memory loss, even if dementia is not present. For many people, this is just a naturally accepted part of life, albeit one that is not a wanted part.
Researchers found that a substance in flavanols called epicatechin helps encourage the growth and expansion of blood vessels and brain cells.
Flavanols have benefits beyond brain health because of antioxidant properties. They remove harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells from damage. Flavanols have also been associated with cardiovascular health benefits, as they may help improve blood flow and promote the dilation of blood vessels, essentially reducing the risk of heart disease. Also, flavanols have potential anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial for various conditions related to chronic inflammation.
While further studies are needed to fully understand the extent of flavanols’ benefits, their potential as a natural compound with positive effects on our health is promising. And what’s perhaps most exciting about flavanols is that they are found in foods that most people like to eat. Cocoa, the primary ingredient in chocolate, is associated with candy or junk food. To get the benefits of cocoa when you’re eating chocolate, dark chocolate contains much more of the helpful ingredients than milk chocolate does. Chocolate might be a delicious treat, but it isn’t enough on its own to be the most helpful option.
The researchers concluded that just like how babies need certain vitamins and other nutrients when it comes to brain health, the aging brain likely needs certain raw materials to continue to function at a high level. Flavanols seem to be one of the important components needed for brain health as we get older. Dietary recommendations for seniors may soon be a normal thing in our society.
This research was conducted by Alzheimer’s and dementia researchers at Columbia University. It was partially funded by the National Institutes of Health and Mars Edge.
Chocolate and berries are not going to cure dementia. However, there’s a lot to learn about why the flavanols that they possess are so helpful. Hopefully, this research helps future scientists to get one step closer to finding a more effective method of helping those that are suffering from Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.
Until then, the help of a professional memory care service might be helpful for your family. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s at this time, but there are things that can be done that can help make life a little bit easier for those that are suffering from this neurodegenerative disease. Having a team on your side that understands dementia and has the professional training to help is important.
If you have questions, we are here for you. Give us a call to talk with a professional or to schedule a free consultation today.
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