Five reasons to drink cocoa

Cocoa is one of the oldest foods in the world and cocoa powder has been used for over 4,000 years.

With a history predating the Maya and going back to pre-Columbian tribes, cocoa’s popularity has shown an impressive longevity.

Containing significant amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, cocoa is one of the most nutrient-dense foods in the modern diet.

Cocoa is present in all types of chocolate products, from dark chocolate to cakes and various sweet snacks.

How is cocoa powder obtained?

Cocoa powder is made by grinding and pressing fermented cocoa beans (Theobroma cocoa seeds) to remove natural cocoa butter. After the cocoa butter is removed, a dry and bitter powder remains.

Because the taste is very bitter, cocoa powder is commonly combined with other ingredients to make chocolate and other desserts.

Health benefits of cocoa powder

According to some nutritionists and endocrinologists, cocoa powder has a wide range of health benefits.

1. Some of these benefits are associated with specific nutrients that cocoa contains, while others are associated with polyphenols that improve cerebral circulation, stimulate brain function, and lower blood pressure.
2. Cocoa increases immunity, improves memory for schoolchildren and students experiencing increased mental stress.
3. Most of the carbohydrates in cocoa powder are healthy fibre.
4. Cocoa powder is a rich source of magnesium, manganese, copper and phosphorus. The chromium contained in it will help control appetite. Calcium, in turn, will strengthen bones.
5. Cocoa contains the pleasure hormone dopamine, which improves mood and a small amount of caffeine in cocoa powder perfectly tones and restores the human body after hard work.

But those suffering from insomnia should avoid taking such a drink at night, as cocoa gives a charge of vivacity.

It is important to note that this health promotion list is for unsweetened cocoa powder.

Sugar-sweetened cocoa powder/hot chocolate is not healthy.

First of all, the benefits for the body outlined above are based on unsweetened cocoa powder.

On store shelves, most chocolate blends are heavily sweetened to provide the best flavour. While these foods will still contain healthy nutrients, the amount of sugar in them will negate the health benefits.

In other words: for medicinal purposes, unsweetened cocoa powder is the best choice.

As an alternative, dark chocolate with a sweetener and a high percentage of cocoa is suitable.

Here are two easy recipes for healthy cocoa drinks.

Chocolate milkshake Schwarzwald

Mix 1 cup (250 ml) of milk with 1.5 tbsp. of cocoa powder, and then add half a cup (75 grams) of berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries or raspberries).

Hot chocolate

Hot chocolate without sugar is healthy and tastes good.

Mix 1 cup (250 ml) of milk, 30 ml heavy cream, 1 tbsp. of cocoa powder, vanilla extract and sweetener to taste.

Bring to a boil, cook over medium heat for a couple of minutes.

In general, cocoa consumption improves one’s mood and enhances feelings of positivity.

Have two cups of this delicious tonic to keep yourself in good shape.

Sumaya Tlisova, As-Salam correspondent