Dark chocolate and red wine may stimulate the brain through taste, the study found

New research from Japan suggests that flavanols — plant compounds found in these foods — may stimulate the brain not by being absorbed into the bloodstream, but by triggering a sensory response associated with their bitter taste.

“The main result of this trial is that it has shown for the first time how the stimulation of flavanol intake – most likely the bitter taste – is transmitted to the central nervous system, triggering a stress response that enhances short-term memory and produces beneficial effects on the circulation,” Professor Naomi Osakabe of the Shibaura Institute of Technology in Japan told Fox News Digital.

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“It was surprising that the brain activity-enhancing effect of flavanols occurred at a very low dose.”

Flavanols found in cocoa, red wine, and berries may stimulate sensory nerves that promote focus and alertness. (Istock)

In experiments on mice, a single dose of flavanols increased Spontaneous activity and improved performance In memory tests, according to the study published in the journal Current Research in Food Science.

The researchers also observed rapid activation of brain regions associated with attention, arousal, and stress regulation.

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Because very few of the flavanols people consume actually enter the bloodstream, researchers believe they may instead affect the brain and heart by stimulating sensory nerves.

The researchers describe this concept as part of an emerging field known as sensory feeding, the idea that the taste and physical sensations of food may directly regulate biological functions. This may eventually lead to the emergence of new types of foods that combine attractive taste with beneficial physiological effects.

Berries are a natural source of flavanols, which are plant compounds that are being studied for potential cognitive and cardiovascular benefits. (Istock)

The response is similar to what occurs during light exercise, which is a temporary activation of function Sympathetic nervous system It is sometimes described as a fight or flight response. This type of short-term stress can increase focus and alertness.

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“While it is clear that healthy foods contribute to maintaining and promoting homeostasis, the mechanisms are still largely unclear,” Osakabe said. “Notably, this study identified the potential of taste in food components to regulate biological functions.”

The study has limitations because the research was conducted on animals, and foods are a complex mixture of many compounds that may interact with each other.

The brain’s response to flavanols is similar to the temporary “fight or flight” activation seen during light exercise. (Istock)

Larger human studies are needed to determine whether the effects seen in mice also occur in humans.

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“I don’t think people, including most doctors, realize that tasting a particular molecule or compound can quickly lead to major changes in the brain,” says Dr. Johnson Moon, a neurologist at Providence St. Jude Medical Center in California. He previously told Fox News Digital Regarding sensory feeding.

Moon said more data is needed before recommending foods like dark chocolate, especially since the calories, sugar and fat may outweigh the benefits.

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However, Osakabe noted that previous long-term human studies on cocoa flavanols have suggested cardiovascular and cognitive benefits. Currently, A A balanced and vegetarian diet.

Experts say more research is needed before flavanol-rich foods can be recommended specifically for cognitive benefits. (Istock)

“I believe that eating plant foods such as cocoa, berries and red wine, along with fruits and vegetables, can help maintain health,” she said.

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Major health organizations say that if adults choose to drink alcohol, they should do so in moderation — up to one drink a day for women and two for men — and stress that no amount of alcohol is completely risk-free.

Fox News Digital’s Melissa Ruddy contributed to this report.