Cocoa Powder: Health Benefits

A drink made from cocoa powder, as a rule, gives us pleasant memories of the time when we were all still children. Cocoa powder is a powdery paste obtained from the fruits of a chocolate (cocoa) tree as a result of preliminary drying and grinding of beans.

In fact, the history of this product is quite interesting. As you know, chocolate powder migrated to the European continent along with sailor Christopher Columbus. The Aztecs, the tribes that inhabited America, were already engaged in the cultivation of cocoa trees. They used the grown fruits to cook various dishes. Very popular was a drink made from cocoa beans, which added energy, strength and vigor. In addition, the Aztecs already produced a special product that was very similar to the chocolate we know today. The name "chocolate", as it turns out, comes from the word "chocolatl" - a product that Aborigines produced.

European colonialists adopted traditional food preferences from ancient tribes and began to create their own recipes for "chocolatl". It is worth noting that the most successfully happened with the Swiss, British and French.

The manufacturing technology of cocoa powder has not changed much since its discovery. Changes occurred only in terms of the processing equipment used. In some areas of America, fruits are still harvested by hand, but this does not affect the quality of the product. Process sequence:

1. The first step is to collect ripe fruit. For this procedure, as a rule, a well-sharpened knife is used (since it is necessary not to touch and preserve inflorescences, as well as fruits that have not yet ripened).
2. Then the fruits need to be opened and removed, and seeds from them (the fermentation process begins).
3. Seeds must be placed in a basket or box, at the bottom of which should fit banana leaves and burlap. During this procedure, the temperature of the mass rises to 45–50 ° C, while the embryos begin to die. Tartness disappears, but there is a chocolate smell and taste.
4. The contents of the baskets must be scattered on a flat surface so that the sun's rays fall on the fruits, this is necessary for drying. After this, the polishing process takes place (an interesting fact - in the homeland of cocoa beans fruit is still polished with the help of legs during the “cocoa dance”).
5. After performing the necessary procedures, you need to sort the low-quality fruits. Beans are ground, as a rule, in a mill, then oil is extracted from the powder. The remaining powder mass will go into the preparation of chocolate products, drinks, etc.

What is cocoa powder

Cocoa powder is a product obtained by drying and grinding cocoa butter left over from grated and squeezed fruits. Various drinks are made from the powder, including hot chocolate and cocoa with milk. After the cake base has cooled, it is crushed to a powder consistency. The powder has a brownish-reddish color and a chocolate aroma.

Kinds

As a result of processing the fruits of the cocoa tree, several types of powder are obtained. They are distinguished by the quality of processing, cleaning and the area in which they were grown.Cocoa powder can be divided into industrial (grown using fertilizers), organic (environmentally friendly product processed by industrial methods) and live (obtained as a result of manual processing).

In fact, today on the store shelves there is a large number of various cocoa products, so it’s not easy to make a choice. This is quite interesting, because cocoa is produced using the same substance, while its processing technologies have slight differences. The product can be divided into two types:

• cocoa powder (boiled to obtain a drink);
• cocoa drink (prepared by ordinary dilution of the product in boiling water or milk).

You need to know that there is a product that can be called natural (it contains a large number of substances useful for the body), and also there is another (modern) option that is very popular today (this drink is instant and boasts only a pleasant taste and smell). This product, as a rule, does not need to be boiled, but it will be enough to fill it with water or milk (it is worth noting that it will dissolve even when cool liquid is added). In order to maintain the nutritional value of the product, various components are added to it.

Is there caffeine

In fact, there is caffeine in the cocoa powder, but in a small amount, so the consumption of this product does not pose any danger (except in rare cases). If the body is very sensitive to caffeine, it is better not to risk it and not to eat cocoa products, especially in the evening. Caffeine provokes the body to generate energy, stimulates the nervous system and brain. Sometimes cocoa powder can cause sleep problems or increased nervous irritability. But this happens if you consume too much cocoa product. In order to reduce the effect of invigorating properties on the body, it is recommended to add less powder and more milk (if it is a drink). You should also consider foods containing caffeine that were consumed during the day. If drinks such as tea or coffee have already been drunk that day, cocoa should be abandoned in order to avoid an excess of caffeine in the body.

The amount of caffeine in the composition of the product may vary from the manufacturer, it also depends on the type of beans and the degree of fermentation. Typically, 12 mg of caffeine is consumed per tablespoon of powder. This volume is 12% of the amount of substance contained in one cup of coffee. If we are talking about soluble sweet cocoa, then this product contains significantly less caffeine (4-5 times less). Therefore, this drink is allowed to be included even in the children's diet.

It is worth noting that caffeine is also found in various energetics and even in some medications. If you use it in the right dosages, it will only bring benefits to the body. It can act as a defense against the onset and development of malignant tumors, and also gives vigor and fills the body with energy, has a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, and helps to stabilize pressure. But excessive consumption of this substance can provoke problems with the dynamics of the heart, headaches, stomach upsets, and can also cause insomnia.

Composition and calorie content

100 grams of product contains:

• calories - 289 kcal;
• proteins - 24.3 g;
• fats - 15 g;
• carbohydrates - 10.2 g;
• fiber - 35.3 g;
• alimentary fiber;
• minerals;
• tanning and coloring compounds;
• organic matter;
• aromatic components;
• caffeine;
• terbromine;
• water - 5 g.

What is useful cocoa powder

General benefit

1. Cancer Prevention Cancer is the second (by the number of people) cause of deaths in the world. Free radicals that are in the environment, as well as in the food we eat, damage the cells, resulting in dangerous mutations that sometimes lead to the development of tumors.But there are substances that can fight these free radicals and can also reduce oxidative stress. These substances are antioxidants. These powerful compounds are found in fruits and vegetables, such as raspberries, blueberries, cabbage, as well as in cocoa beans. For comparison: cocoa contains much more antioxidants than other foods rich in these substances (including green and black tea). Cocoa powder is especially rich in polyphenols and flavonoids. They help the body protect cells from damage and from the effects of bacteria. Also in the range of their capabilities includes slowing down and preventing the growth of cancer cells. Studies show a positive correlation between the consumption of cocoa products and the level of development of cancer cells. Cocoa powder helps to slow the growth and reproduction of cancer cells of the colon, prostate, without affecting the growth and functioning of healthy cells. But there is a downside. When processing raw materials, especially when heated, cocoa powder loses its antioxidant properties. This means that the powder in its pure form is more useful than the products prepared from it.
2. Reduce the risk of heart disease. Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in both men and women. In addition to the fact that cocoa powder helps the body in the fight against free radicals and cancer, the polyphenols and flavanols contained in this product also have anti-inflammatory properties, and therefore contribute to maintaining heart health. Flavonoids prevent the formation of blood clots and blood clots that block blood flow in the vessels and arteries. And, since cocoa powder is a mixture of healthy monounsaturated and saturated fats, these fatty acids also help the body maintain a normal state of the cardiovascular system.
3. Lowering blood pressure.Cocoa powder helps lower blood pressure. Studies show that those who consumed the most flavanol-rich cocoa powder were able to significantly lower their blood pressure in the short term. Another study found that people who consume cocoa products daily have a higher circulation of nitric oxide in their blood. Since nitric oxide relaxes arteries and blood vessels, this helps to facilitate and increase blood flow. It should be noted that the effects of lowering blood pressure were most significant when consuming cocoa products with a high concentration of flavonols. Therefore, dark chocolate is more useful than milk or white, as it contains more flavonols.
4. Normalization of cholesterol.Cocoa powder increases the concentration of HDL cholesterol, which naturally helps to reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Therefore, the use of this product helps to lower cholesterol and is the prevention of heart disease.
5. Reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.Studies show that regular consumption of cocoa powder or products based on it correlates with less likelihood of future cardiovascular complications.
6. Decreased insulin resistance.Flavanols found in cocoa are good for people with type 2 diabetes. They help improve blood sugar control, significantly increase insulin sensitivity, while lowering fasting insulin levels. This is because the polyphenols contained in cocoa powder slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates and sugar.They also help break down glucose, which allows the body to more efficiently distribute resources.
7. Maintaining brain activity.Regular consumption of cocoa powder can reduce or even prevent some signs of age-related cognitive decline. Polyphenols and flavonoids improve brain function, increase blood flow to it, and prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease. This is because flavonoids affect neuronal production and the functioning of healthy brain cells. Catechin and epicatechin, two specific flavonoids, support the normal functioning of those areas of the brain that are responsible for memory and learning. Catechins and epicatechins support brain cells and slow down their death.
8. Mood improvement.Cocoa and cocoa powder have properties that help a person feel happier, since the use of this product gives satisfaction, reduces symptoms of depression, and also has an aphrodisiac-like effect. At times when a person feels exhausted or tired, cocoa powder can help, as it affects the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. The polyphenols contained in the powder not only improve mood, but also help reduce mental stress and remove chronic fatigue syndrome.
9. Maintaining electrolyte balance.Dieters very often neglect electrolyte balance indicators. If the body does not have enough sodium, magnesium and potassium, then a person may begin to have headaches, he will feel tired and lethargic, arrhythmia, muscle cramps, nausea, diarrhea or constipation will occur. Cocoa helps to fill the need for magnesium (one tablespoon contains 6% of the recommended daily intake), and also saturates the body with other necessary minerals.
10. Maintaining healthy skin.The polyphenols and flavanols contained in cocoa help the skin look healthier, as these amazing antioxidants improve blood circulation and blood flow, as well as increase oxygen levels in the body. All this contributes to a more even skin tone and a youthful appearance. In addition, these antioxidants also protect against ultraviolet radiation.
11. Maintaining healthy teeth.Since cocoa contains antioxidants that have an antibacterial and immunity-enhancing effect, it is able to maintain dental health and can also prevent gingivitis (gum disease). Theobromine, which is found in cocoa, protects tooth enamel and strengthens teeth. It is worth noting that this applies only to sugar-free cocoa powder.
12. Prevention of bronchial asthma.Cocoa powder and products based on it help in the treatment of bronchial complications. Alkaloids, such as theophylline and xanthine, present in cocoa powder, help relax bronchospasm. It improves breathing, helps the treatment of chronic allergies leading to asthma.
13. Healing power.Pharmaceutical companies use cocoa extracts in the manufacture of medicines because of its wound healing and therapeutic properties. Scientists see cocoa extract as an active agent that helps prevent the growth of infectious bacteria in the body. In addition, if taken with appropriate medical treatment, it can help eliminate Helicobacter pylori contagious bacteria from the body.
14. The fight against obesity.Regular consumption of cocoa normalizes lipid metabolism, and this helps to reduce the synthesis of fatty acids.
15. Treating constipation.People with chronic constipation may benefit from cocoa-based foods. Cocoa powder has a therapeutic effect that helps treat digestive diseases and intestinal diseases. Several studies have been conducted that have helped evaluate the effect of the product on diseases of the rectum, colon and intestines. The study showed that cocoa is a substance that enhances the functions that ensure the passage of food through the intestines.
16. Overheat protection.Cocoa trees are plants that are very well adapted for development in very hot climates, and their fruits have similar properties. Beans contain melanin. It is able to neutralize the negative impact that the sun has. Therefore, the consumption of cocoa helps to avoid sunstroke, burning and overheating of the body.
17. Recovery of muscle tissue.Cocoa powder, not subjected to heat treatment, helps the body restore muscle tissue after sports or physical activity. Due to the high content of various nutrients, the product must be included in the diet of people with increased physical activity.

For women

Moderate but regular consumption of cocoa powder helps strengthen the capillaries, as it contains flavonoids. In addition, this product has properties that help the body accelerate the processes associated with wound healing, and also contribute to facial rejuvenation.

Women who have hormonal disruptions are advised to regularly consume cocoa drinks. The substances contained in cocoa help balance the emotional state, as well as help mitigate the premenstrual syndrome.

For men

Cocoa powder is an excellent prophylactic against heart attacks and strokes, as it has a positive effect on the functioning of the heart muscle. If the vessels are in poor condition, this sometimes leads to impotence.

Cocoa powder also contains zinc - a substance that can increase sex drive. It is the main building material of testosterone and has a very positive effect on sperm quality, as well as on the process of sperm production.

During pregnancy

Women who are in a position should limit or completely abandon the use of this product. Cocoa powder can negatively affect the body of a pregnant woman, since it prevents the body from absorbing calcium normally, and this can significantly affect the growth and development of the child.

When breastfeeding

During this period, cocoa powder is allowed, but you must adhere to some rules:

1. To introduce this product into a woman’s diet is possible only when the child is 1 month old.
2. The first intake should occur before noon, this will help to track the reaction of the baby.
3. Use can be started if the child is completely healthy.
4. Drinking and eating foods containing cocoa is recommended immediately after the baby is fed, as this will significantly reduce the risk of allergies.

If signs of allergy are not observed, then it is allowed to consume cocoa a maximum of twice a week.

For kids

As a rule, cocoa powder enters the children's diet through drinks. In order for the use of this product not to harm the child, you should adhere to some recommendations:

1. Children from 2 years old can be given up to 50 ml of cocoa per day (up to 2 times a week). No more than one teaspoon of cocoa powder should be added to the drink. It is recommended to eat it before dinner, but you should not do this right before eating.
2. After the child is 6 years old, he is allowed to consume up to 100 ml of cocoa per day (no more than 3 times a week).
3. Children from 10 years old can drink a drink every other day.

Cocoa powder contains a high concentration of flavonoids, which are known to improve heart function and support oral health. It also helps protect the skin and improves its appearance. Do not use processed cocoa powder that does not contain most flavonoids (70% or more pure cocoa powder should be indicated on the label). You can also add powder to milk or sprinkle pancakes and waffles on them.

The benefits of cocoa powder for weight loss

Some women are afraid to consume cocoa products, as they are afraid to gain excess weight, but this is a big mistake. By itself, cocoa powder does not adversely affect the figure, so diets based on it are very useful.But this does not always apply to chocolate, since one tile of this product contains a large amount of saturated fat, in contrast to the amount of these components contained in a mug of cocoa or in pure powder. Although cocoa is considered a fairly high-calorie product, it’s not worth worrying about the extra pounds coming along with it.

It should also be noted that cocoa consumption saturates the body very well. The powder can be added to protein mixtures - this will accelerate weight loss, as well as prepare regular drinks based on cocoa powder. It is important to remember that it is not recommended to drink more than 2 cups of cocoa per day.

The healing properties of cocoa powder

One of the main components of cocoa powder are caffeine and theobromine. Caffeine is a substance that has a tonic effect, theobromine improves blood circulation. The product contains fats, proteins, carbohydrates and minerals.

Cocoa stimulates the processes associated with the work of the brain, and the use of this drink helps to relieve stress and improves mood. If we talk about the medicinal properties, this product is able to prevent the development of diabetes, sclerosis and dementia. It is also useful for hypertensive patients. Cocoa contains polyphenols that help control pressure.

Cocoa powder in cosmetology

The composition of cocoa powder includes a large number of useful vitamins and minerals that have a beneficial effect on the skin and hair. Vitamin A and B vitamins support youthful skin, giving it elasticity, slow down the appearance of wrinkles, and also fight rashes and irritations. Potassium maintains skin moisture, iron stimulates the processes of oxygen saturation of cells. Melanin helps fight the effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Facial Cocoa Powder Masks

Mask for nourishing and moisturizing the skin:

1. Dilute cocoa powder (1 tbsp.spoon) in water until a uniform, thick mixture is formed.
2. Apply the mixture on the face for 10-12 minutes.
3. Wash off the mask with water.

Suitable for both oily and dry skin. For too dry skin, water can be replaced with milk.

Mask for nourishing and moisturizing the skin

1. Raw yolk mixed with 1 tbsp. fat sour cream and add cocoa powder (1 tsp).
2. Rub thoroughly so that there are no lumps.
3. Distribute the resulting mixture over the skin of the face and keep until completely dry.
4. Wash off the mask with mineral water.

The composition nourishes, moisturizes and tightens the skin, and also eliminates dryness.

Hair masks

Mask for strengthening hair:

1. 1 egg, cocoa powder (1 tsp) and sour kefir (200 g) mix to a thick consistency.
2. Apply the mask to the hair for 60 minutes.
3. Wash hair with water.

It is recommended to make a mask 2 times a week for 2 months. This will help hair grow more actively and strengthen hair follicles.

Mask for hair loss

1. Mix a small amount of hot milk with cocoa powder (1 tablespoon).
2. After that, mix 1 beaten egg yolk with cognac (1 tablespoon) and add it all to the cocoa-milk mixture.
3. We apply the resulting consistency to the hair and warm them.
4. We wait 30 minutes, after the hair must be washed with water.

This mask helps people who have hair loss.

Cooking Cocoa Powder

Cocoa is often used for desserts and drinks. Powder can also be added to baked goods. He will be able to give the dish a characteristic aroma, and also give it a pleasant chocolate shade. Cocoa powder is considered one of the most useful natural flavors and colors, so it is so actively used in baby food.

How to make chocolate from cocoa powder

Ingredients:

• 100 g of cocoa powder;
• 1 tsp a spoonful of sugar;
• 50 g butter (creamy);
• 2 tbsp milk.

How to cook:

1. Heat the milk over low heat.
2. Add cocoa powder and sugar to milk.
3. Melt the butter in a water bath.
4. Mix butter with milk.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil and leave over low heat for 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour chocolate into molds.
7. Chill in the refrigerator.

How to cook cocoa from powder in milk

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder;
• 0.5 l of milk;
• 1 tbsp Sahara.

How to cook:

1. Pour milk into a small saucepan and put on fire (until it boils).
2. After that, add cocoa powder, sugar to the pan and stir until completely dissolved in milk.
3. Leave to cook for 5-6 minutes.
4. Then remove the drink from the stove. Cover the pan and let the cocoa brew a little.

How to make chocolate icing from cocoa powder

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp cocoa powder;
• 3 tbsp milk;
• 0.5 tbsp. powdered sugar;
• 30 g butter;
• 0.5 tsp vanilla.

1. Add cocoa powder, sugar to the enamel pan and mix. After that pour milk into it and stir well.
2. Simmer until the foam appears, stirring constantly.
3. After that, remove the pan from the heat and let stand for 10 minutes.
4. Then add butter and beat with a mixer.

Chocolate Cream Cake Cocoa Powder

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of milk;
• 1 cup of sugar;
• 4 tbsp. cocoa powder;
• 2 tbsp flour;
• 150 g butter (butter).

How to cook:

1. Mix cocoa powder with sugar and flour.
2. Stirring the ingredients, gradually pour in the milk.
3. While stirring, warm over medium heat until boiling.
4. Let stand for 15 minutes, add oil and mix.
5. Allow the cream to cool.

How can I replace cocoa powder in baking

In baking, cocoa powder can be replaced by:

1. Carob. This is a powder obtained by processing carob fruits. In appearance it is similar to cocoa powder, the only difference is that it has a less saturated color. Taste is also very similar, but carob is slightly sweeter than cocoa. Therefore, when using it in a dish, you can not add sugar. The powder does not contain caffeine and theobromine.
2. Chocolate. This is a confectionery that is made from cocoa butter. The composition of high-quality varieties contains cocoa powder. As a substitute, black varieties of chocolate are suitable.
3. Instant coffee). Coffee is an excellent substitute for cocoa powder. For baking, just 2 tablespoons of instant coffee will be enough. To neutralize a specific coffee aroma in baking, it is recommended to add flavorings.

Harm and contraindications

Cocoa powder contains some chemicals that act like antidepressant drugs on the body, so using this product can lead to some health problems - drowsiness, memory loss, confusion, shortness of breath and apnea.

1. For kids. Excessive amounts of calcium in the body can be harmful to the baby’s health, as this can lead to bone deformation.
2. With diabetes. Cocoa also raises blood sugar and can affect glucose control in people with diabetes.
3. For sensitive people. The product can cause migraines in some people.
4. Irritable bowel syndrome. Cocoa contains caffeine. In large quantities, it can aggravate diarrhea and symptoms of IBS.

In the homeland of cocoa beans, as a rule, not very good sanitary conditions. Therefore, foods that contain cocoa can harm the body.

It is also worth noting that cocoa beans are very fond of cockroaches, so after their presence in the product may remain chitin. Manufacturers use disinfectants and various aggressive chemicals that have harmful effects on human health.

How to choose and store cocoa powder

The first thing you should pay attention to is the aroma of the powder.By smell you can immediately understand - a fresh product or not. The aroma should be saturated, with a bright chocolate tint, without extraneous impregnations, the color - brown, chocolate. If the product has a too light shade, then most likely it contains impurities, it is better not to buy such a powder. Smooth, fine grinding testifies to its quality. When grinding, the powder should not have grains. Fat content should be 14-17%.

Natural cocoa powder intended for brewing can be stored for no more than 6 months. If we are talking about soluble powder, then its shelf life is longer due to preservatives. It can be stored for up to 2 years (in a metal container). It is recommended to store the powder in a dark ventilated place with an air humidity of not more than 75% and a temperature of + 18 ° C (plus or minus 3 degrees).

How often can I drink cocoa

Despite the fact that cocoa is a very healthy drink, it is not recommended to drink more than 2 cups per day. Especially this drink will be useful to people who are engaged in mental activity or have regular physical activity. The best time to drink cocoa is in the morning. You should not drink this drink in the evening, otherwise sleeplessness may occur.

Interesting Facts About Cocoa

1. It takes about 900 beans to make a kilogram of chocolate.
2. December 13 is National Cocoa Day.
3. Cocoa was banned in Europe. There was a period when the Catholic Church forbade consuming it, otherwise a person was declared a heretic. It was believed that this product pollutes the blood and can change the skin color of children.
4. The ancient Mayan tribes were the first to discover the amazing enchanting properties of cocoa beans. It was around 600 AD.
5. It was believed that in 1502 Christopher Columbus brought cocoa beans to King Ferdinand on his return from a trip to the New World.
6. Cocoa was exported to Europe starting in 1585, and the first bar of chocolate was produced only in 1848.
7. Worldwide, annual cocoa production is 3 million tons.
8. The time required for the cocoa tree to produce the first beans is five years.
9. During the heyday of the Aztec civilization, cocoa beans were used as currency.
10. More than 70% of all cocoa in the world is produced in West Africa.
11. Cocoa plants should be planted next to tall trees to protect them from direct sunlight.
12. The composition of the soil on which the trees grow affects the taste of cocoa beans.
13. Machines are not used in the production of this product, each stage (planting, watering, harvesting, fermentation and drying) is done manually.
14. Amsterdam is the largest cocoa port in the world, and more than 500,000 tons of this product pass through it every day.
15. One of the last Aztec emperors could drink about 50 bowls of cocoa drink per day.

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