A little cocoa a day, keeps the dentist away?

A research group compromised of doctoral students and scientists from Tulane University, the University of New Orleans and Louisiana State University’s School of Dentistry, recently wrapped up a research study on the effects of cocoa in fighting cavities. The research suggests an extract found in cocoa powder “was more effective than fluoride” in preventing cavities. The cocoa extract is composed of a white crystalline powder with a chemical composition similar to caffeine. The extract helps harden teeth enamel, “making users less susceptible to tooth decay.”

Although the results are promising in the animal model, it will take a few years for a product to be approved for human use or distribution.