Cocoa plant

Amazing medicinal and health benefits of cocoa

Theobroma cacao, commonly known as the cocoa plant, is a small evergreen tree that grows in tropical regions. The tree produces cocoa beans, which make chocolate liquor, cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and chocolate.

Theobroma cacao is native to the tropics of the Americas, but it is now grown commercially in many parts of the world, including western Africa and tropical Asia

International Cocoa Organization

The International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) is an inter-governmental organization established in 1973 under the auspices of the United Nations and operating within the framework of successive International Cocoa Agreements. ICCO’s mission is to promote a sustainable cocoa economy by providing statistical information, market analysis, and policy recommendations to its member countries ¹. ICCO also researches cocoa production, processing, and consumption, and provides technical assistance to cocoa farmers and other stakeholders

Health benefits of cocoa

Cocoa powder is rich in polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants in foods like fruits, vegetables, tea, chocolate, and wine.

Polyphenols have been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced inflammation, better blood flow, lower blood pressure, and improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Cocoa is one of the richest sources of polyphenols, especially flavanols, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

However, processing and heating cocoa can cause it to lose its beneficial properties. It’s also often treated with alkaline to reduce bitterness, which results in a 60% decrease in flavanol content.

While cocoa is a great source of polyphenols, not all products containing cocoa will provide the same benefits.

Improved heart health: The flavanols in cocoa are thought to improve nitric oxide levels in the blood, which can enhance the function of your blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.
Improved brain health: Cocoa contains compounds that can improve blood flow to the brain and enhance cognitive function.
Blood sugar and weight control: Cocoa has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, which can help with weight management.
Healthy teeth and skin: Cocoa contains compounds that can help protect your skin from sun damage and improve oral health by reducing inflammation and preventing tooth decay

Common ways to use cocoa:

Baking: Cocoa powder is a popular ingredient in baking and can be used to make cakes, brownies, cookies, and other desserts. It can also be used to make chocolate frosting, hot chocolate, and other chocolate-flavoured treats.
Smoothies: Cocoa powder can be added to smoothies to give them a chocolatey flavour. You can also add other ingredients like bananas, peanut butter, or protein powder to create a delicious and nutritious drink.
Coffee: You can add cocoa powder to your coffee to create a mocha flavour. Simply mix a tablespoon of cocoa powder with your coffee grounds before brewing.
Oatmeal: Cocoa powder can be added to oatmeal to give it a chocolatey flavour. You can also add other ingredients like fruit, nuts, or honey to create a delicious and healthy breakfast.

The side effects of cocoa

According to WebMD, cocoa is likely safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, keep in mind that cocoa contains caffeine and related chemicals, as well as heavy metals like lead. Eating large amounts might cause caffeine-related side effects such as nervousness, increased urination, sleeplessness, and a fast heartbeat. Cocoa can cause allergic skin reactions and might also trigger migraine headaches. It can also cause nausea, stomach discomfort, constipation, and gas.

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