Phytotherapy Blog
Daily multi-nutrient formulation but not cocoa improved cognition in older adults
The COSMOS-Mind study is a sub-study to a larger parent trial called COSMOS. It investigated the effects of cocoa extract and a standard multivitamin-mineral on cardiovascular and cancer outcomes in more than 21,000 older participants.
In COSMOS-Mind, researchers tested whether daily intake of cocoa extract vs placebo and a multivitamin-mineral vs placebo improved cognition in older adults.
More than 2200 participants aged 65 and older were enrolled and followed for 3 years. They completed tests over the telephone at baseline and annually to evaluate memory and other cognitive abilities.
Results showed cocoa extract had no effect on global cognition compared with placebo (mean z-score, 0.03; P = .28).
Daily multivitamin use, however, did show significant benefits on global cognition vs placebo (mean z, 0.07, P = .007).
The beneficial effect was most pronounced in participants with a history of cardiovascular disease (no history 0.06 vs history 0.14; P = .01).
Researchers found similar protective effects for memory and executive function.
Older adults who are deficient in essential micronutrients and minerals due to nutrient-deficient diets and who have a high prevalence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other medical comorbidities may benefit from a daily multi-nutrient formulation.
The cocoa extract (Mars Edge, of Mars, Inc.) contained 500 mg of cocoa flavanols, including 80 mg epicatechins and modest amounts of theobromine (∼50 mg/day) and caffeine (∼15 mg/day) that likely enhance flavanols' central and vascular effects.
The multi-nutrient formulation was Centrum Silver (Pfizer Consumer Healthcare, now Haleon).
The COSMOS multi-nutrient formulation contained the following ingredients:
| Vitamin or Mineral | Amount |
| Vitamin A,IU | 2500 (40% β‐c) |
| Vitamin C, mg | 60 |
| Vitamin D, IU | 1000 |
| Vitamin E, IU | 50 |
| Vitamin K, µg | 30 |
| Thiamin, | 1.5 |
| Riboflavin, mg | 1.7 |
| Niacin, mg | 20 |
| Vitamin B6, mg | 3 |
| Folic Acid, µg | 400 |
| Vitamin B12, µg | 25 |
| Biotin, µg | 30 |
| Pantothenic Acid, mg | 10 |
| Calcium, mg | 220 |
| Iron, mg | 0 |
| Phosphorus, mg | 20 |
| Iodine, µg | 150 |
| Magnesium, mg | 50 |
| Zinc, mg | 11 |
| Selenium, µg | 19 |
| Copper, mg | 0.5 |
| Manganese, mg | 2.3 |
| Chromium, µg | 50 |
| Molybdenum, µg | 45 |
| Chloride, mg | 72 |
| Potassium, mg | 80 |
| Boron, µg | 0 |
| Nickel, µg | 5 |
| Vanadium, µg | 10 |
| Silicon, mg | 2 |
| Lutein, µg | 250 |
| Lycopene, µg | 300 |
Reference
Laura D. Baker, Joann E. Manson, Stephen R. Rapp, Howard D. Sesso, Sarah A. Gaussoin, Sally A. Shumaker, Mark A. Espeland Effects of cocoa extract and a multivitamin on cognitive function: A randomized clinical trial https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.12767
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About the author
Michael Thomsen PhD scholar, MSc, ND
I firmly believe in the value and preservation of traditional medicine. I work to inform health professionals about the incredible value of medicinal plants and I work with industry to improve the quality of the medicinal products made from medicinal plants and nutrients.
I now divide my time between clinical practice where I specialise in cancer support and my various business activities.
Michael Thomsen is a Naturopath with over 30 years’ experience. Originally from Denmark, Michael completed studies in Naturopathy and Herbal Medicine in Sydney, graduating in 1986. He has a Master of Science, from the Graduate School of Integrative Medicine, Swinburne University and is currently completing a PhD at Sydney University Medical School.
Michael has extensive industry experience as past technical manager of leading herbal medicine companies in Australia. He is the original author of the popular Phytotherapy Desk Reference now in its fourth edition having sold 16,000 copies worldwide.