Banana Chocolate Mousse with Oats and Chia Seeds
Ingredients for 3 servings:
- 3 ripe bananas
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup rolled oats
- Prepare the bananas: Peel the bananas and cut them into pieces.
- Blend the ingredients: Add the bananas, Greek yogurt, rolled oats, and cocoa powder to a blender.
- Blend until creamy: Blend everything thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Chill the mousse: Pour the mousse into small bowls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best consistency, let it chill for about 7 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds and oats to absorb the liquid and thicken the mousse.
Source:
Martin, M. Á., & Ramos, S. (2021). Impact of cocoa flavanols on human health. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 151, 112121. Source
The review by Martin and Ramos (2021) shows that cocoa and the flavanols it contains positive effects on various cognitive functions. In particular, attention, working memory, and processing speed may be improved through cocoa consumption. Among the clinical studies examined in the review, several reported positive effects on cognitive performance, whereas others found no significant changes. Possible explanations for these beneficial effects include improved cerebral blood flow and an influence of cocoa flavanols on neuronal function. The gut-brain axis may also play a role, as gut bacteria can metabolize cocoa polyphenols into other bioactive compounds. Overall, current research suggests that cocoa may have a positive influence on cognitive function; however, the findings are not yet conclusive (Martin & Ramos, 2021).