In experiments at Gamagori Municipal Hospital, involving over 400 test aged persons, it was shown that a four weeks daily intake of 35 g chocolate containing 72 % cocoa (630 mg cocoa polyphenols) led to an increase of brain-deerived neurotrophic factor BDNF in blood, indicating stimulation of brain cells. In another set of experiments at Teikyu University, a daily intake of 25 g of such chocolate led to less obstipation and improved bowel movement, which was not seen when white chocolate was eaten. Indigestable protein extracted from the chocolate beans also stimulated bowel movements

Meiji Co. news release, January 18, 2016, Nikkei Biotech news release, February 14, 2016