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Instant cocoa harm and benefit. Cocoa recipes - drinks of kings

Cocoa, the benefits and harms to health after 50 years of which are now increasingly discussed on the Web and on TV, as well as right choice, preparation and description of the composition of this product- topics for a "weighty" separate article. So decided Natalya Voitovetskaya, a nutritionist and constant author of the column on the action of the products of the site "I am Zdorova". I decided and got down to business. Photo, Interesting Facts, theories and advice! Remove milk from the stove - time flies with us!

It is common knowledge that the homeland of cocoa is the impenetrable forests of the Amazon! Fruits grow on a chocolate tree (the name is like from a fairy tale about jelly shores!) And after harvesting, they are widely used both in the food industry and in such fields as cosmetology and medicine. However, most of all cocoa is known all over the world as the base of chocolate, which literally means "food of the gods" in local languages.

From ancient sources it is known that in ancient times cocoa beans were no less valuable than gold and they were only allowed to be consumed " ruling nobility". The inhabitants of the European continent first managed to taste the fragrant grains only in the fifteenth century. At the same time, a special technology was developed for extracting oil from beans and processing them into powder. Its author is considered to be Konrad van Hoyten.

At the same time, some two hundred years ago a cup of hot cocoa was a sign of luxury and wealth. Only respectable representatives of the upper class of society could enjoy a sip of this healthy drink.

Interesting: Did you know that the habit of putting the cup on the saucer is not a sign of good taste, but a necessity due to the high price of cocoa beans? So gourmets were reinsured against spilling drops of the precious drink!

To get just a kilogram of cocoa powder, it was necessary to process at least forty fruits, which contained more than a thousand grains! But even today, the principle and technologies for preparing popular bean-based products are not too different. To make cocoa powder, cocoa beans are pressed at a high temperature, resulting in butter. After that, the defatted cake is dried and crushed. That's all. Then the powder is packed and sent to factories where granulated sugar, vanilla, butter are added to it and everyone's favorite chocolate is made.

Fact: The Netherlands is considered to be the largest importer of cocoa. The inhabitants of this republic consume about 20% of the total world harvest!

And also, do not miss the chance to find out a lot of interesting things about another popular product in the article about!

About the benefits of cocoa

The composition of cocoa beans contains the so-called theobromine, which is analogous to caffeine in its composition. This substance is able to excite the nervous system, dilate coronary vessels and dilate the bronchi. Also, the grains of the chocolate tree contain substances useful for the body such as:

  • essential and tanning oils;
  • minerals;
  • carbohydrates;
  • proteins;
  • vitamins.

One of the most famous properties of cocoa is its ability to provoke the production of endorphins, hormones that have a beneficial effect on the thought process, improve brain performance and overall well-being, and also improve mood.

In addition, the product contains polyphenols that effectively lower blood pressure (blood pressure). That is why doctors strongly recommend including this drink in the menu for hypertensive patients.

Epikachetin, which is part of the composition of the grains, is a powerful prophylactic natural remedy against heart attacks and strokes. Today it is actively used for the prevention of cancer.

Interesting: Scientists believe that regular consumption of cocoa beans is the main reason for the longevity of the indigenous people of America!

Drinking healthy cocoa after age 50 is good for reducing the chances of memory loss and developing atherosclerosis! It is very beneficial for teenagers to drink a drink for depression. It should be noted that the antioxidants and flavonoids contained in the product will help women preserve the youthfulness and beauty of their skin and hair for a long time! Also, a cup of warm drink can relieve soreness caused by problematic menstrual cycles.

In addition, the powder from the fruit of the chocolate tree is able to protect the skin from ultraviolet rays and heal wounds. This property of the product is very often used by women for the preparation of skin masks.

Nutritional and energy value

Nutritional quality products are very high, because in its composition the drink contains most of the elements for the normal physiological and mental state of a person.

The calorie content of cocoa is 289 calories per hundred grams. Of them:

  • 9 grams of saturated fatty acids;
  • 6 grams of ash substances;
  • 8 grams of starch;
  • 2 grams of monosaccharides;
  • 5 grams of water;
  • 4 grams of organic acids;
  • more than 35 grams of dietary fiber;
  • 10 grams of carbohydrates;
  • 15 grams of fat;
  • 24 grams of protein.

The vitamin complex of the drink is represented by the following substances:

  • vitamin E;
  • B vitamins (B9, B6, B5, B2 and B1);
  • vitamin A;
  • vitamin PP.

In addition to all of the above, cocoa beans contain most of the macro and micronutrients we need.

As a percentage, the calorie content of the product is 15% of the daily intake. Of them:

  • 14% carbohydrates;
  • 47% fat;
  • 34% protein.

Video about the properties of cocoa powder:

Contraindications and harm of cocoa for women

Remember that such a rich composition of delicious aromatic drink may be harmful to health. Of course, it is worth mentioning the presence of caffeine in cocoa. It is with this indicator that you should familiarize yourself in more detail when brewing a cup of snacks for pregnant women and children. In addition, it is better to delete this drink from the menu for people with ailments, the aggravation of which can be affected by this substance.

Interesting: Since chocolate trees grow in regions with, to put it mildly, not the best sanitary conditions, different animals like to settle in them. Beans are especially popular with cockroaches. Therefore, the plantations of these plants are subject to frequent pesticide treatments. In addition, at the factory, the fruits undergo additional processing using a radiological method. All these facts, despite the objections of manufacturers, do not bring anything good to our body.

The list of people who are better off eliminating cocoa from their diet include:

  • allergy sufferers;
  • people with heart disease;
  • patients with chronic constipation;
  • children under three years of age;
  • diabetics;
  • people with atherosclerosis and ailments of the nervous system;
  • patients with high acidity and obesity;
  • patients with gout and severe kidney disease, etc.

This is not a complete list of those who may experience the negative effects of the product. Therefore, it would not be superfluous to consult a doctor on this issue.

Cocoa in traditional medicine

As mentioned earlier, cocoa is widely used not only Food Industry but also in medicine / cosmetology. Most often it is used at home for the prevention and treatment of colds. And just a cup of a fragrant drink on an autumn day can lift your mood and tone! At the same time, the product perfectly liquefies and removes phlegm. Its use will quickly and tasty relieve you of flu, tonsillitis, bronchitis and even pneumonia.


Take care of yourself or your loved ones by warming your parents a cup of cocoa! Benefits and harm to health after fifty years of this drink are in your hands. Purchase a quality product (like Chinese) avoiding flavors and dyes.

Many products of plant origin are actively used in the daily diet of the population. So one of the most popular substances of plant origin, actively used in the children's diet, is cocoa. It can be purchased in stores in the form of a brown powder. Such raw materials are commonly used to prepare a tasty and nutritious milk-based beverage. The taste of such a drink is probably familiar to every person. But is it able to benefit our body? If so, what is the use of cocoa with milk for the human body? Let's try to answer this question in as much detail as possible.

What is the composition of cocoa?

High-quality cocoa is made from cocoa beans, these amazing gifts of nature contain more than three hundred elements that have a very different effect on our body. So in their composition there is a significant amount of vegetable protein, carbohydrates, and also fats. In addition, they are a source of a number of organic and unsaturated fatty acids. Cocoa also contains a certain amount of dietary fiber, starch and sugar.

Cocoa beans saturate our body with a variety of vitamins, including a certain amount of B vitamins, including folic acid, provitamin A, and beta-carotene. They also contain a significant amount of tocopherol and vitamin PP. This product is a good source of a number of mineral elements represented by fluorine, manganese, molybdenum, copper, and zinc. Also, cocoa beans contain some amount of iron, sulfur, chlorine, phosphorus, potassium and sodium. They will also benefit people who are deficient in magnesium and calcium.

Nutritional value

Cocoa milk drink is quite nutritious, it perfectly saturates the body with energy. At the same time, it will not harm those wishing to lose weight at all, if consumed in a fairly moderate amount - no more than one cup per day. Such a drink should be taken in the morning, in this case it will provide the body with strength for the whole day.

What are the health benefits of cocoa?

Cocoa is the source of a number of bioactive substances that block platelet adhesion. The antioxidant properties of such a natural substance exceed those of apples and orange juice, and even green tea. The presence of flanols in its composition helps to establish the course of metabolic processes, as well as prevent various damage to the integrity of the vessels.

Consuming cocoa that has not been boiled helps to ensure active muscle recovery after various sports activities or physical labor. Also, this product contains a unique substance anandamine, which stimulates the synthesis of endorphins, which are hormones of joy. That is why the consumption of such a drink helps to improve mood and achieve a surge of vitality. Also, cocoa with milk is rich in epicatechin, which prevents the development of stroke and heart attack, diabetes mellitus, gastric ulcer, and even cancer. In addition, scientists have come to the conclusion that such a drink helps to speed up the healing process of wounds, and also stimulates cell regeneration, in other words, skin rejuvenation.

The presence of melanin in the composition of cocoa - a natural pigment - makes this drink even more beneficial for the skin, since this element is able to protect it from the aggressive effects of ultraviolet radiation.

This drink is a source of theobromine, which is similar in structure and effect to caffeine. One cup of quality cocoa drink will wake you up in the morning much better than the strongest black coffee. In addition, such a chocolate drink will help to cope with heartburn and will have a regulating effect on the monthly cycle.

Experts have come to the conclusion that cocoa is a source of significant amounts of bioflavonoids, which are able to neutralize the activity of reactive oxygen species. Namely, such particles harm DNA cells and are able to stimulate the growth processes of neoplasms. Studies have also confirmed that such a drink is especially effective in eliminating oxidative stress that provokes cancer of the small or large intestine. Such an action of cocoa will be very useful for a modern person, since our body is constantly faced with various harmful products that provoke pathologies.

One more useful quality such a milky chocolate drink helps to maintain normal brain activity, as well as maintain clarity throughout life. Cocoa optimizes blood circulation in the brain, has a positive effect on memory and concentration. In addition, such a drink quite well prevents the development of senile dementia.

Cocoa preparation

Cocoa drink is very simple to prepare. Bring one liter of milk to a boil, then take three tablespoons of cocoa powder and dissolve them in a small amount of such hot liquid. This will help avoid lumps in the drink. Next, pour the prepared cocoa solution into a container with boiling milk and boil the drink for three minutes. Use sugar depending on your taste preferences, and it is better not to use honey, as it will interrupt the interesting taste of cocoa.

Thus, cocoa with milk is very tasty and healthy drink, for both adults and children.

Probably everyone's favorite childhood drink is cocoa. It is the parents who kindergarten and the school introduced us to this drink. Today it is known that cocoa powder, cocoa grains are used for the preparation of various delicacies. It is from cocoa that chocolate is made. Also, cocoa powder has found its application in cosmetology. Cocoa beans grow on chocolate trees and have no aroma or taste whatsoever. The grains are endowed with these characteristics already in the process of roasting and processing. Why is the product so useful? And can cocoa be harmful to health?

Cocoa grain composition

Natural, high-quality cocoa beans have a rich mineral composition. The composition of vitamins is no less impressive. The B vitamins have the greatest value and concentration, on which the full functioning of the central nervous system depends. So, the group is represented by the following components: B2, B1, B9, choline. Also, the beans contain enough vitamins K, PP, A, E.

The benefits of cocoa are also due to minerals, trace elements, which are abundant in the product. This drink is a powerful source of iron. Only 100 grams of cocoa powder contains 120% of the daily value of this component. In second place in the ranking of concentrated minerals is magnesium - 105% daily value... Already from this data, the benefits of the product become clear. The following trace elements also have a high concentration:

  • Potassium;
  • Sodium;
  • Phosphorus;
  • Calcium;
  • Zinc;
  • Fluorine;
  • Copper;
  • Chlorine.

Among the constituents of this product, there is a certain amount of caffeine and theorbromine. The caffeine in cocoa has a mild effect, absolutely not harmful to health. At the same time, an invigorating effect is observed. Therefore, it is customary to give cocoa to children. From the grains, oil is made, which is actively used both in cosmetology and in cooking.

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Calorie content of cocoa?

What is the calorie content of cocoa beans? Can I drink this drink while dieting? Cocoa has never been low in calories. 100 grams of powder contains 290 kcal. Therefore, drinking more than 1 cup of cocoa per day can harm your figure. But, in turn, the drink perfectly saturates, gives a feeling of satiety for a long time. Therefore, nutritionists recommend that women replace one of the main meals with a cup of cocoa.

The product contains proteins, carbohydrates, fats, starch, natural sugars, organic acids, dietary fiber, pectins. So, proteins in 100 grams of cocoa are 24 grams, which is about 30% of the total required daily allowance for the normal functioning of all systems and organs. Fat in cocoa 15 grams, carbohydrates - 10 grams. A large amount of dietary fiber (160% of the daily value) completely restores the functioning of the digestive system.

Useful properties of cocoa

Having studied the composition of the powder, there is no doubt about the usefulness of the product. The drink is rich in antioxidants. So, 1 cup of cocoa contains 5 times more antioxidants than 1 cup of green tea. These substances not only protect the body from all kinds of pathologies and diseases, but also slow down the aging process. Also, it is antioxidants that inhibit the effect of free radicals on the cells of the body, which prevents the development of cancer and oncological diseases. Cocoa has many others useful properties.

Benefits of the drink for the cardiovascular system

Natural, high-quality cocoa contains a large amount of flavonoids, which have a positive effect on the work of the heart muscle and the entire cardiovascular system. These components protect the human body from blood clots. This effect has been proven by numerous studies. So, in the course of the study, two groups of men took part. The diet of the first group included products containing cocoa. The second group of men did not change their usual diet. After a while, it was established that men from the first group suffered from heart attacks 3 times less often.

Cocoa is very useful for people suffering from hypertension. Hypertensive patients, as a rule, are prohibited from using tonic drinks (strong tea, coffee). But, this has nothing to do with cocoa. The drink not only tones, but also normalizes blood pressure. All the same flavonoids strengthen the walls of blood vessels, make them more elastic. With regular but moderate consumption of cocoa, nitrogen production is activated, which is very beneficial for the functioning of the heart, blood circulation in the brain.

The tonic properties of cocoa

Numerous studies of the effect of cocoa on the human body prove that the product has antidepressant and tonic properties. So, just one cup of cocoa a day has the following benefits:

  • Eliminates signs of depression;
  • Cheers up;
  • Energizes;
  • Tones up;
  • Increases working capacity.

All thanks to the high level of proteins (proteins). So, a balanced ratio of proteins, organic acids in cocoa butter are considered sources of energy and strength.

Cocoa and the digestive system

In the modern pace of life, quick snacks are an integral part of the day. This quality of nutrition leads to the development of constipation. This condition not only worsens your mood, but can also cause serious problems with the digestive system. Cocoa beans are saturated with dietary fiber, fiber, which improves intestinal motility, restores its microflora. Due to this, the body gets rid of stagnant feces, toxins and toxins. And nutritionists advise to eat 1 teaspoon of dry cocoa powder every day to prevent digestive system disorders.

Cocoa powder for high cholesterol

For people who are required to monitor the glycemic index of foods, cholesterol levels, cocoa is a must-have food. So, the drink relieves the condition with complications from diabetes. The drink is included in the diet when it is necessary to lower blood cholesterol levels. In the case of diabetes mellitus, obesity, cocoa is one of the few beverages that can be consumed. But, it is important to remember that the acceptable dosage is one cup per day without added sugar or other sweeteners.

Cocoa - prevention of bronchial asthma

Components such as theophylline, xanthine help with various diseases of the respiratory system. So, using the product, bronchial spasm is eliminated, which is very important in such a serious illness as bronchial asthma. In case of colds, the drink will release the lungs and bronchi from phlegm, relieve the patient from sore throat and cough. Adding cocoa butter to other drinks and cocktails will allow air to flow freely.

Cocoa in old age

Overwork, stress, age lead to various cognitive impairments in the work of the brain. Such problems are especially pronounced in old age. Thanks to the glycosides that make up cocoa, the negative impact on the functioning of the brain is leveled. Just one cup of cocoa a day will increase blood flow to the brain and restore cognitive processes. Concentration increases, memory improves.

The benefits of cocoa for the female body

The product is very useful for the female body. Nutritionists advise drinking a cup of cocoa during the diet. Such an amount of the product will not harm the figure in any way, but will saturate the body in full with all the necessary microelements. The main benefit is the high levels of magnesium and iron. These trace elements prevent the development of anemia, normalize the level of hemoglobin in the blood. After all, it is female body more prone to anemia than men due to regular menstruation.

Very often, a decrease in hemoglobin and anemia are diagnosed in pregnant women. Cocoa with the addition of milk will compensate for the lack of calcium in the body and reduce appetite. Cocoa powder and butter are actively used in cosmetology. When using masks based on powder, using the product internally, the beauty of hair and nails is preserved. So, a face mask has the following effect:

  • Rejuvenates;
  • Leaves skin firm;
  • Smoothes fine expression lines;
  • Moisturizes the skin;
  • Evens out the complexion.

Cocoa butter is used for anti-cellulite massage. In cosmetology, there is a whole line of special hair restoration products based on these grains. The main beauty benefit of cocoa is unique composition that is suitable for absolutely all skin types. Flavonoids protect the skin from the negative effects of sunlight, saturates cells with oxygen, and improves blood circulation.

Harm of cocoa powder

Cocoa, like any other product, has both beneficial and harmful properties... Do not give cocoa to children under 3 years of age. This is due to the content of caffeine in the product, albeit in small doses. Cocoa beans are highly allergenic foods. If you have food allergies, it is better to refuse to consume cocoa.

Also, the harm to the product is caused by unsanitary conditions in the regions where the grains are harvested. In addition, cocoa is a favorite habitat for insects, in particular cockroaches. Often, when growing, these plants are treated with various chemicals. It is undesirable to consume the drink and foods containing beans for people suffering from kidney disease. If there are no strict contraindications for consumption, cocoa will not harm the body.

How to choose a quality cocoa powder?

It is very difficult to find quality cocoa powder in modern supermarkets. The huge export of this product reduces its quality characteristics at times. But, nevertheless, there are some tips to help you get the most useful product... So, it is worth choosing natural cocoa, and not sweet instant cocoa mixtures. Also, on the packaging of good cocoa there should be a mark indicating that this powder is not alkalized. Such a mark means that the product has not been processed with harmful substances, aroma and taste enhancers have not been added to it.

Soluble powders are not worth purchasing. As a rule, in such a product the content of natural cocoa does not exceed 10% of the total mass. Attention is also paid to the amount of fat in the product. Typically, the minimum amount of fat allowed is 15%. This suggests that the powder contains natural oils. All natural cocoa has a dark brown color, chocolate flavor, bitterness is allowed. You can also determine the quality of the powder by touch. It is enough to rub a pinch of powder with two fingers. If the grains did not roll (crumbled), and a greasy coating remained on the fingers, then the cocoa is natural. This drink will only benefit your body.

Few people do not like to eat sweets. It so happens that the most popular products with a sweet tooth are products with cocoa. On the one hand, it has a rich chocolate taste, on the other hand, it has a low calorie content. Yes, you can even consume cocoa on a diet. If you are trying to lose weight, but you have an irresistible desire for sweets, drink a cup of cocoa on skim milk without sugar, with stevia or a sweetener and you will immediately feel better, the desire for sweets will recede.

In addition to its pleasant taste, cocoa also has useful properties, you should not think that it is intended only for quenching a pernicious passion, cooking harmful, but insanely delicious confectionery.

Calorie content and nutritional value of cocoa

The calorie content of cocoa powder is 290 calories per 100 grams. When preparing a cup of cocoa, you use about 10 grams, that is, the calorie content of the drink, excluding milk and sugar, is 30 calories. Also, 100 grams of cocoa contains 24 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, 10 grams of carbohydrates, 35 grams of dietary fiber and 4 grams of organic acids.

Same cocoa contains a number of vitamins useful for the human body... They are found in a much smaller volume in vegetables, fruits, meat, cereals, but in cocoa the indicators are much higher.

- vitamin PP - 6.5 mg
- vitamin B5 - 1.6 mg
- vitamin E - 0.32 mg
- vitamin B6 - 0.31 mg
- vitamin B2 - 0.21 mg
- vitamin B1 - 0.12 mg
- vitamin B9 - 46 mcg
- vitamin A (RE) - 3.2 μg
- beta-carotene - 0.03 mg

Macro and micronutrients are the same. Cocoa powder can be a source of many vital nutrients.

- potassium - 1510 mg
- phosphorus - 657 mg
- magnesium - 424 mg
- calcium - 129 mg
- sulfur - 81 mg
- sodium - 13 mg
- chlorine - 27 mg
- iron - 23 mg
- zinc - 7.2 mg
- manganese - 4.5 mg
- copper - 453 mcg
- Fluorine - 246 mcg
- molybdenum - 57 mcg

Useful properties of cocoa

In addition to organic acids, vitamins and macro and microelements, cocoa boasts the presence of such "usefulness" as caffeine, theophylline, theobromine (this triple has a pronounced tonic effect) phenylethylamine (a natural antidepressant), melanin (protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation and burns), polyphenols.

Fatty organic acids, together with proteins, have a beneficial effect on vascular health by keeping cholesterol levels under control. Cocoa contains four fatty acid- they all together and with the assistance of other substances form an extremely useful mixture, which has antioxidant, regenerating, immunomodulatory, anticarcinogenic properties. Cocoa has a positive effect on the synthesis of proteins and enzymes in the body, since it contains purines.

Due to the vitamin series and the presence of natural antidepressants cocoa is an excellent way to raise the level of endorphins - hormones of happiness and joy... That is why, when sad and heavy thoughts are overwhelmed, a cup of this chocolate drink helps. Scientists also note the positive effect of cocoa on mental activity - it stimulates thinking, promotes concentration and long-term high performance. Cocoa protects against stress and improves vitality.

Cocoa is used in various fields of production. It is an important component in cooking, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetology. In the pastry shop we buy chocolate chip cookies, in a pharmacy - pills for low pressure or cough, in a care store - a medicated hair mask or lip balm - and all of these products contain cocoa.

The healing effect of cocoa was noticed many centuries ago, while cocoa butter was used to treat important persons. Cocoa can be used as an antitussive agent, expectorant and thinning phlegm, therefore, many medicines for the treatment of bronchitis and pneumonia contain this product. Also, cocoa is very effective in the treatment of colds and viral diseases, since it perfectly protects and fights against all harmful microorganisms - viruses and bacteria. In winter, for protection or treatment, you can lubricate the nasal and oral cavity cocoa butter.

By consuming cocoa internally, you can count on the fact that inflammation of the intestines will be removed, intestinal upset will stop, the course of many stomach diseases will be alleviated, you will get good prevention of cholecystitis and heart diseases, the level of cholesterol in the blood will be reduced, with constipation, a mild laxative effect will appear. Regular intake of cocoa in food removes from the body bad cholesterol, thereby preventing the development of atherosclerosis and varicose veins. Cocoa protects against cholecystitis as a natural choleretic, and its anticarcinogenic effect works as the prevention of cancer.

Harm of cocoa, contraindications, who should not use it

Cocoa has no pronounced harmful effect. It can turn out to be harmful, toxic only if the quality of the product is low, so choose high quality cocoa powder for cooking and treatment.

You should refrain from using it:

- people with individual intolerance, hives, food allergies to cocoa, cocoa butter, chocolate;

- people with a disease in which the use of foods that do not contain purines is indicated, for example, with gout;

- people with severe metabolic disorders;

- people suffering from insomnia should limit the intake of cocoa in the afternoon;

- hyperactive children and children under three years old;

— lactating women.

It is with this aromatic drink that those who dislike coffee begin the morning. The benefits of cocoa, in contrast to its harm, can be called by everyone. It "cures" depression and gives a positive charge for the whole day. It is believed to be almost caffeine-free, so cocoa is completely safe. Is this so, and does he have only one healing property?

Cocoa's mission is pleasure and good health!

To get 1 kg of cocoa liquor, you need 1200 beans! They grow on chocolate trees... The seeds are fermented, dried, fried, ground. And cocoa begins its journey to the store shelves.

The medicinal properties of an instant drink should not be considered. Thanks to dyes and flavor enhancers, it only imitates natural cocoa liquor, the benefits and health risks of which are due to the unique combination of natural ingredients.

It contains a whole treasure of minerals. The most valuable substances are selenium, zinc, iron and calcium, sodium, manganese, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium. Cocoa can be called a multivitamin. It contains K, PP and an almost complete set of B-vitamins.

Pros of cocoa for human health:

  • Invigorates, raises vitality (thanks to caffeine), but does not cause addiction.
  • Promotes the production of endorphins - substances that have a positive effect on general well-being, emotional state, increase efficiency, and improve intellectual capabilities.
  • It has antioxidant properties, neutralizes free radicals and removes them from the body. According to some scientists, in terms of such properties, cocoa even surpasses green tea, apples and red wine. By consuming this drink, a person can protect himself from cancer.
  • Promotes the production of melanin, therefore it is a prophylactic agent for skin cancer.
  • Lowers blood pressure and improves cerebral circulation, increases the strength and elasticity of blood vessels.
  • Reduces the risk of blood clots by 70%.
  • Reduces the risk of heart disease by 50% (due to the presence of magnesium).
  • Normalizes metabolic processes, suppresses the cough reflex.
  • Improves the condition of patients with cirrhosis and liver fibrosis.
  • Accelerates recovery from illness.
  • Soothes muscle pain after intense training and physical exertion.
  • Participates in cell regeneration, has a rejuvenating effect.
  • For women, cocoa relieves premenstrual tension and helps preserve beauty, as it is included in many cosmetic products and hair care products.
  • For men, cocoa protects against the development of diseases of the genital organs (since it contains zinc), and it also stimulates the production of testosterone, increases potency.

A couple of cups is good, if more is bad. How to drink cocoa and who better not to?

Cocoa beans contain up to 300 different components. It is clear that they act in different ways on the body, therefore, both benefits and harm are possible from cocoa. Whatever they say, but it contains 0.2% caffeine. Scientists are still arguing about the properties of this substance, putting forward arguments "for" and "against". But since its safety has not been proven, it is better to exclude such a product from the menu of children under 3 years old.

Negative qualities of a chocolate drink:

  • Stimulates the formation of gastric juice. This does not harm those who have low acidity, but with increased, as well as with an ulcer, cocoa is extremely dangerous.
  • It worsens the condition in kidney diseases, gout and other pathologies associated with impaired uric acid metabolism (purines are to blame for everything).
  • Can provoke allergies. This usually happens when eating a low-quality product containing chemical additives and chitin (it ends up in powder due to the insects that live inside the beans).
  • Has a stimulating effect on the nervous system, can cause insomnia. In this regard, it is recommended to drink cocoa in the morning (it is better to do this at breakfast).
  • Strengthens the stool, therefore it is not recommended for constipation.

Important! Although cocoa improves mood, it is contraindicated for expectant mothers, as it interferes with the absorption of calcium in the body of pregnant women and babies, contains caffeine, which increases the tone of the uterus, and is an allergenic product.

If the benefits of cocoa are related to the composition, then its harm is most often related to the growing conditions. Trees from which such fruits are harvested are generously treated with pesticides. And at the factories where beans are brought, they are exposed to radiation in order to destroy pests. Although manufacturers insist that cocoa powder is thoroughly refined, it is still impossible to completely eliminate the harm from chemicals and radiation exposure.

What is the use of cocoa for those who decide to part with extra pounds? Thanks to polyphenols, it dulls hunger for a long time. It is very low in fat: in 100 g of powder there is only 15 g. And there are even fewer carbohydrates, which those who are so afraid of losing weight are so afraid of.

The bulk of the cocoa composition is protein and dietary fiber. All this points to the great dietary potential of the product. There is even a diet that allows you to consume fat-free cocoa powder (below 12%), but not more than 1 tsp. per day.

Still, cocoa is not very suitable for the role of a weight loss product. It should not be included in the diet of overweight people, and those who want to stay in shape are advised to limit themselves to small portions. 100 g of powder contains 290 Kcal.

Although 2 teaspoons are used to prepare a cup of drink - this is 48 Kcal, additional ingredients significantly affect this figure. Milk or cream will raise it to 168 Kcal. When adding 2 tsp. Sahara the energy value will increase to 200 Kcal.