Uploaded on Mar 26, 2024
the benefits of healthy cocoa powder
What are the benefits of healthy cocoa powder
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HEALTHY
COCOA POWDER?
Healthy Cocoa Powder
Cocoa is responsible for one of the most popular confectionaries in the
world, chocolate. Most processed chocolate found in stores can be
criticised for having high quantities of fats & sugars. But raw, crushed
cocoa beans can be turned into considerably healthy cocoa powder.
High consumption of processed chocolate is linked to several health
risks like diabetes & high blood pressure. But research has suggested
that cocoa powder with little refinement is packed with healthy
flavonoids & antioxidants.
What is healthy cocoa powder?
Cocoa (or chocolate) is prepared from cocoa beans, which are technically seeds.
Cocoa beans are found on a Cacao Tree, formally named Theobroma cacao. The
fruit has almost 300 components.
They are cultivated from a large yellow coloured fruit that contains the beans
inside. These beans are dark brown in colour & generally extracted as solids
such as cocoa powder or cocoa butter, which is fat.
Researchers have found evidence of the cacao tree & cultivation of cocoa by
humans to be over 5000 years. Historically it had grown in popularity for its
sweet pulp & perceived psychoactive effects.
Cocoa powder has plenty of modern research that suggests it may have enticing
health benefits. When consumed in moderation, some studies have concluded
that it may benefit ageing, oxidative stress & blood pressure regulation.
Where is Cocoa from?
It is perceived to originate from Amazonian & equatorial regions of South
America & Central America over 5000 years ago. In the 15th century it was then
discovered by Spanish explorers in Mexico, leading to its rise in European
popularity.
Today farming & production is mostly in West Africa, primarily Ghana & Côte
d'Ivoire who are the worlds largest exporters. These two countries alone
account for more than 60% of global production.
Uses
Cocoa powder is obviously known for its’ ability to be reformed into
delicious, sweet tasting chocolate. From dark chocolate to white
chocolate, to hot chocolate, it comes in many forms.
But outside of chocolate, it had also been used as a natural
medicine, cosmetics (such as facial creams), alcohol production &
even conditioner for soil!
Benefits Of Healthy Cocoa Powder
Popular research has found that it contains powerful antioxidants &
healthy bioactive compounds that may have a positive effect on human
health. Some of the most common reported benefits are:
Improving blood flow to your heart & brain
Cognitive function & mood balance
One of the most popular benefits researched for cocoa is the
cardiovascular impact on blood pressure. Cardiovascular disease is one
of the most common causes of death in the world. Studies suggest that
the high quantity of healthy flavonoids & antioxidants in cocoa may
have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health by improving
oxidation.
Continue.....
Many studies have been carried out to monitor the effect of cocoa &
chocolate on the brain. Whilst firm scientific conclusions have not yet
been made, there have been positive findings that link cocoa with mood
balancing hormones like serotonin.
One study of elderly men found that consumption of chocolate had
been linked to improved psychological wellbeing. Who doesn’t love
chocolate, right?
Cocoa in every-day life
Although cocoa is often linked to many forms of chocolate, some high in sugars & fats. If it is consumed in
moderation & limited processing, it may have a vital role to play in daily wellbeing. Its flavour is an added bonus!
To make this a little easier, we’ve added Cocoa as the primary component & flavouring to our Calming Cocoa.
Why not try adding it to:
Coffee to make a mocha
Hot milk for a healthy hot chocolate
Oatmeal
Hot water, if milk is a bit too heavy
Protein shakes
Smoothies
Baking such as cakes, cookies, brownies.
Resource Link: https://
www.nutrifizeltd.com/blogs/knowledge-with-nutrifize/healthy-cocoa-powder
Thank You
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