Cocoa for children with Tourette Syndrome

Published April 2014

Download the full evidence summary PDF: Cocoa for children with tourette syndrome

PLEASE NOTE: This summary was produced more than 4 years ago. Information provided may be out of date. If you think it would be helpful to update this summary please contact us at pencru@exeter.ac.uk

What Were We Asked?

We were asked whether there was any evidence that cocoa could have a calming effect on children with Tourette Syndrome.

Key Findings:

• Cocoa is the name given to ground (processed) cacao beans used in chocolate food and drink products.
• We found no research studies that explored the effect of cocoa for children with Tourette Syndrome.
• Due to the lack of evidence and the high sugar, fat and calorie content of many cocoa products, we would caution against regularly incorporating them for medicinal purposes into children’s diets.

This information is produced by PenCRU researchers and reviewed by external experts. The views expressed are those of PenCRU at the University of Exeter Medical School and do not represent the views of the Cerebra charity, or any other parties mentioned. We strongly recommend seeking medical advice before undertaking any treatments/therapies.