Dark chocolate and red wine could help lower the risk of developing dementia , according to a new study involving Australian researchers.

A group of natural substances called "flavonoids", found naturally in a range of fruits and vegetables including berries and leafy greens, are believed to be the cause.

They can also be found in the aforementioned treats, as well as in tea.

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Researchers from Edith Cowan University and Queen's University in Belfast looked at the diets of more than 120,000 adults aged 40 to 70 in the UK for nearly a decade.

Of that group, 882 developed dementia during the study.

The researchers found that those who consumed the highest amount of flavonoid-rich foods had a lower risk of dementia.

Tea, red wine, and berries were found to be the chief diet factors.

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The decreased risk was especially noted among people who had either a high genetic risk of dementia, high blood pressure, or depressive symptoms.

The researchers acknowledged their study could not prove those foods and drinks caused the lower dementia rates, but said adding more of them into your diet could help.

People are advised to consult their GP before any major dietary change.

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