Cocoa fascinates young and old alike for its taste, and, It is a superfood that has very beneficial properties for our body. Of course, when consuming pure cocoa, all its advantages are exploited: Foods derived from it, such as chocolate, also contain large amounts of sugar and are not very healthy for our bodies. (List of Super Foods You May Not Know)
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From a nutritional perspective
When eaten in butter form, it provides 50% fat and 11% to 12% protein. It also contains 7 to 8 percent starch, with the remainder being water, fiber, essential acids, and up to 300 substances. For example, magnesium is very high in its raw form. The ideal way to do this is to consume cocoa powder made from the seeds of the tree of the same name. Because it has low fat content. However, the most common way to take it is in the form of chocolate mixed with other ingredients such as milk or sugar.This means it has a greater nutritional contribution, e.g. Vitamins A, B, calcium, iron or copper, and also contain large amounts of fat and sugar.
It is rich in antioxidants and can relieve stress
Pure cocoa is a source of antioxidants, just like red wine or green tea. Additionally, cocoa helps reduce stress levels thanks to theobromine, a substance that stimulates the central nervous system. On the other hand, its cannabinoid content can help you feel happier as it acts as a mood regulator. It is even used in patients who are being treated for depression.
Finally, it must be mentioned that It has the ability to increase sexual desire. This is due to chemicals like phenylethylamine and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters responsible for stimulating the brain. Endorphins are associated with happiness, joy, euphoria, and excitement.
lower cholesterol levels
Consuming chocolate can lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and increase good cholesterol (HDL). Yes, as long as we consume cocoa that is at least 70% pure. (you might be interested:A great superfood to reduce bloating)
Help fight disease
as a source of antioxidants, andCocoa linked to protection against pathologies caused by oxidative stress. These diseases include cardiovascular, colon cancer, diabetes, cerebrovascular, liver cancer, gastric cancer… It also contains flavonoids, commonly found in vegetables, which may help prevent certain heart diseases. This is because they have a positive effect on cells, helping them protect themselves from free radical attacks. This is excellent in fighting diseases like cancer. Flavonoids also provide benefits to the brain system as they help improve memory and other cognitive processes.
It is a natural diuretic and helps rehydrate the body
Although it may seem contradictory, it is a natural diuretic but also aids in hydration of the body. Theobromine in cocoa helps protect the kidneys and increases urine production. on the other hand, It also has moisturizing properties, especially for hair, and can also help reduce cellulite.
The best ways to eat cocoa
As we mentioned, it’s best taken in its pure form, whether it’s butter or powder. However, for many people this is difficult because the taste is quite bitter and far from what we know chocolate to taste like. We can also consume it in liquid form, making smoothies with milk or water, preferably hot. A cup of soluble cocoa contains a high concentration of antioxidants, making it a very healthy drink. Using cocoa powder we can also prepare sauces mixed with fresh fruits.
Another option is to treat it like chocolate, but it’s best to choose the purest chocolate. Its composition contains at least 70% cocoa. We should consume 1 to 2 ounces 2 to 3 times per week. In short, it is an excellent food and including it in our diet would be a good decision, but we should not abuse the consumption of cocoa. It should be part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods.