Key Findings:
- Cocoa extract and a multivitamin may improve cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
- Cocoa extract may improve executive function and memory, while a multivitamin may improve processing speed and attention.
- The combination of cocoa extract and a multivitamin may have an additive effect on cognitive function.
Recommendations:
- Older adults with mild cognitive impairment may consider taking cocoa extract and/or a multivitamin to improve their cognitive function.
- Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of cocoa extract and multivitamins on cognitive function and dementia prevention.
- More research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment with cocoa extract and multivitamins for improving cognitive function.
Cognitive function is the ability to think, learn, and remember. It is important for all aspects of daily life, from making decisions to carrying out everyday tasks. As we age, our cognitive function naturally declines. However, there are a number of things we can do to help maintain and improve our cognitive function, including eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and staying socially active.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential of cocoa extract and multivitamins to improve cognitive function. Cocoa extract is a concentrated form of cocoa that is rich in flavanols, which are compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Multivitamins are supplements that contain a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.
A recent study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia investigated the effects of cocoa extract and a multivitamin on cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Mild cognitive impairment is a condition that is characterized by a decline in cognitive function that is greater than what is expected for normal aging, but does not interfere with daily life.
Methods
The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either cocoa extract (500 mg/day), a multivitamin, or a placebo for 12 weeks. Cognitive function was assessed at baseline and at the end of the study using a variety of tests, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and the Digit Symbol Coding Test (DSST).
Results
The study found that cocoa extract and a multivitamin both improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Cocoa extract significantly improved executive function and memory, while a multivitamin significantly improved processing speed and attention. The combination of cocoa extract and a multivitamin had an additive effect on cognitive function.
Consider this..
The findings of this study suggest that cocoa extract and a multivitamin may be beneficial for improving cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. However, more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of these supplements on cognitive function and dementia prevention.
Additionally, the optimal dose and duration of treatment with cocoa extract and multivitamins for improving cognitive function is not yet known. Future studies should investigate these questions.
Conclusion
Overall, the findings of this study are encouraging and suggest that cocoa extract and a multivitamin may be a safe and effective way to improve cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment.