Only four grams cocoa a day

It takes only 24 weeks and you can reduce visibly wrinkles plus increase skin elasticity. No special treatment, no cream, no peeling or laser. Just 4 g of cocoa per day!

According to a study performed at the department of dermatology of Seoul National University Boramae Hospital, this is the quantity can help protect your skin from UV B damages. The trial was performed with the participation of 64 Korean women with visible wrinkles, age between 43 and 86 years old. The participants were separated in two groups: the placebo group, at which was given a beverage containing mainly water and the cocoa group, which was drinking a beverage containing 4 g of cocoa equivalent to 320 mg of flavonol, the antioxidant naturally present in the cocoa beans and responsible of all positive benefits provided by this fruit . The measurements were done at the beginning, before starting the trial, after 12 weeks and after 24 weeks. The study was focusing on: wrinkles depth, skin elasticity, hydration, barrier integrity (loss of water) and UV B irradiation (MED level which is the minimum UV B dose causing erythema on 1 square cm skin surface).

The results show that 4 grams  of cocoa a day, can reduce the depth of already visible wrinkles and increase significantly the elasticity of the skin. Furthermore it elevates the MED, which means it increases protection at UV B exposition. No effects were detected in increasing hydration or in reducing water loss.

Well, I would say that this is a great scientific outcome. Particularly now during Christmas time and tons of chocolate on the table! But please consider the quantity, we do not want to run into issues when wearing our favorite dress for New Year's Eve.  Chocolate usually contains as well sugar, milk and other ingredients. If you can, take dark chocolate with the highest amount of cocoa. Consider as well adding cocoa as supplement for example in your cup of milk or yogurt in the morning. You can find it in powder, beans and nibs. My recommendation is to buy just biological products and certified against a social responsibility standard ( e.g Fair Trade or UTZ).

So, enjoy your cocoa supplement!!