February, the month of love, chocolate & all matters of the heart
It is said, “Eat a little chocolate each day & you would be doing your heart a favor”. Undoubtedly this saying stems from the many benefits of cocoa – the main ingredient of chocolate.
I am sure this sounds like good news to all you sweet tooth’s and chocolate lovers but just before you leap for joy you should read these 14 Healthy Must-Knows About Cocoa!
Cocoa Bean and Powder
Why Cocoa?
- Cocoa? Cacao?: Yes, there is a difference between Cocoa and Cacao. Cacao is the bean while cocoa is the powder/product obtained from the bean.
- Why the bitter taste? Unsweetened Cocoa contains nutritive compounds known as flavonoids which gives it its bitter taste. Interestingly, flavonoids have been proven to improve the health of consumers.
- All Cocoa products contain these benefits? Unfortunately NO. Bitter cocoa flavonoids are often destroyed during processing to make the sweet delicious chocolatey products we all love. Thus not all cocoa-containing products may contain substantial levels of flavonoids.
What Are It’s Health Benefits?
- Matters of the Heart? Minimally processed cocoa has the potential of lowering blood pressure by an average of 2mmHg per cup of cocoa beverage. This is beneficial for hypertensives and anyone concerned about their heart health.
- Reduces Risk of Death? Additionally, cocoa has the properties to reduce risk of heart attacks and strokes by improving blood flow in the arteries and reducing “bad” blood cholesterol.
- Any help for weight watchers? Cocoa has been linked to weight control in many surprising dynamics. Studies found that cocoa intake reduced appetite and when coupled with a healthy lifestyle it helped reduce participants body weight.
How About Chocolate?
I bet this is a question on the minds of many… “does this mean I should drown myself in Chocolate?” I advise you read the next 2 points.
- Dark Vrs Milk? Choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate to secure the amazing nutritional benefits of Cocoa.
- What to look out for? When shopping for cocoa products choose options which contain 70% or more cocoa. Avoid products labelled “grounded chocolates” as it may be powdered milk chocolates containing loads of sugar.
What Is The Recommended Portion?
- The European Food Safety Authority recommends at least 2.5g of high flavanol cocoa powder a day – at least ½ teaspoon/Day.
- When opting for cocoa-containing products such as chocolate and cocoa drinks, moderate intake is advised since these products are calorie dense and may adversely contribute to weight gain.
How Can I Add Cocoa To My Meals?
- Warm Beverage: This is one of the most common ways of gulping down your nutrients. Prepare a warm cup of unsweetened cocoa beverage. Moderately add natural sweeteners such as coconut milk, agave, coconut sugar, honey etc.
- Smoothies: A levelled teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder can be added to your sweet fruit blends to add some flavor and up your nutrient intake. Keep in mind, cocoa pairs well with banana.
- Yogurts & “Ice Cream”: Sprinkle a teaspoon of cocoa on top of your favourite yoghurt or make some healthy homemade “ice cream” with frozen fruits, yoghurt and cocoa powder.
Try any of these and let us know how it taste in the comments section! 😊
Bottom Line!
“Cocoa offers amazing benefits to the heart. Coupled with a healthy eating lifestyle, one stands a chance of improving their heart health, reducing the risk of death as well as losing a few kilos!”
