We love to tell people how healthy chocolate is. If only because it gives us an excuse to justify eating just an other piece of chocolate! A new study came out this week that gave us yet one more good reason to eat chocolate.

Scientists at Oxford’s Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics conducted a study of over 2000 people between the ages of 70 and 74 and fed them chocolate. Chocolate, wine and tea improved brain performance.

Scientists believe that this benefit is due to the presence of flavonoids. Some research suggests flavonoids can ward off dementia. Other studies have shown that flavonoid rich dark chocolate can boost blood vessel function.There was also a study earlier this year suggesting a half-bar of dark chocolate a week offers some protection against cardiovascular disease. Finally yet an other study found that it can lower cholesterol and reduce blood pressure.

I don’t want to suggest that chocolate is the fountain of youth. Not even ours. But with evidence like that how can you not give chocolate as a present this Christmas?