Every year, more than six percent of the 70-and-up population develops mild cognitive impairment, which can lead to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. According to promising research, the flavonols in cocoa can reverse that progression. Elderly participants who drank a dairy-based cocoa flavonol had higher cognitive scores and improved memory compared to those who drank a lower dose. Cocoa flavanols also help keep skin firm (bonus!). When you snack, choose dark chocolate over sugary, fattening milk chocolate.