However, it also concludes that the positive effects levelled out after half a glass of wine and only four squares of chocolate or 4-5 cups of tea a day.
The researchers from Oxford University working with colleagues from the Universities of Oslo and Bergen in Norway studied the effect of the three foodstuffs on cognitive performance among elderly people by taking the sample of 2031 persons between the age of 70 and 74.
Chocolate, wine and tea are thought to improve cognitive ability because they all contain micronutrients called flavonoids, which research has suggested can lower risks of dementia.
The participants filled in questionnaires about their diets and then carried out a series of cognitive tests. Those who regularly drank moderate quantities of wine scored better in all six tests than those who abstain.
As usual, the researchers warned people not to use the research to binge drink in the hope of improving their memories. They stressed that while moderate alcohol consumption is associated with better cognitive function and reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia, heavy alcohol intake could be a cause of dementia and other health problems.
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