Pure cocoa powder, also known as organic cocoa powder or unsweetened cocoa powder is a healthy food ingredient made from cocoa beans. When cocoa butter is processed, the chunks of roasted cocoa bean bits left behind are ground into cocoa powder. However, you may not know that cocoa powder has several benefits that can help improve your health.
The ancient Maya civilization of Central America was the first to use cocoa. Then, in the 16th century, it was brought to Europe by Spain. It became one of the most popular health-promoting drugs in Europe.
This cocoa powder is suitable for making beverages, coffee, and chocolate. Continue reading to know some of the many health benefits of cocoa powder. In Nigeria, pure cocoa has become a popular ingredient for making tea or other meals. This is because pure cocoa powder has immense nutritional properties and health benefits. This article provides you with the nutritional value, and health benefits of pure cocoa powder.
Nutritional Value of Pure Cocoa Powder
The nutritional value of 100g serving of pure cocoa powder is as follows:
- Carbohydrates – 57.90 g
- Fat – 13.70 g
- Fibre – 37 g
- Protein – 19.60 g
- Calories – 228 kcal
| Minerals | Quantity and (DV %) |
|---|---|
| Calcium |
128 mg (13% DV)
|
| Iron |
13.86 mg (107% DV)
|
| Magnesium |
499 mg (141% DV)
|
| Manganese |
3.837 mg (183% DV)
|
| Phosphorus |
734 mg (105% DV)
|
| Potassium |
1524 mg (32% DV)
|
| Sodium |
21 mg (1% DV)
|
| Zinc |
6.81 mg (72% DV)
|
Pure cocoa powder is also one of the richest sources of polyphenols, and flavonoids. They contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline.
However, note that the processing methods can significantly reduce the number of flavonoids and nutrients.
Health Benefits of Pure Cocoa Powder
1. Lowers Blood Pressure
Cocoa powder has been said to be effective in lowering blood pressure. According to studies, the flavonoids in cocoa increase the nitric oxide levels in the blood, which boosts the function of your blood vessels and reduces blood pressure. Thus, taking cocoa powder is good for older people with high blood pressure.
2. Slows Down The Aging Process
Nobody wants to appear older than they are, and a good night’s sleep and a healthy diet can help. On the other hand, Cocoa powder has a powerful anti-aging effect on the body.
Cocoa polyphenols have some health benefits, including reducing inflammation, enhancing blood flow, and lowering blood sugar levels. This indicates that cocoa does more than slow the aging process.
This is all part of the numerous benefits of pure cocoa to the skin. The polyphenols in cocoa have been shown to aid protection, skin blood circulation, and enhance the surface texture and hydration of your skin.
3. Improves Mood
Adding cocoa powder to your diet can significantly improve your mood. Cocoa products, like chocolate, contain flavanols.
This chemical aid in the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin in the body. This serotonin is a mood stabilizer that the body requires to be calm and happy. In other words, the cocoa powder helps to reduce tension and boost mood.
One study found out that pure cocoa improved mood, and reduced stress levels in pregnant women.
4. Has Cancer-Fighting Properties
Cocoa powder has one of the highest flavanol concentrations. As a result, it makes a substantial contribution to cancer prevention. According to studies, cocoa powder also has a high antioxidant impact that protects our cells from inflammation.
It also inhibits the growth of cancer cells and kills them more significantly than any other food. In addition, cocoa powder extract has been found to reduce breast, pancreas, prostate, liver, colon, and leukemia cancers.
5. Reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol
According to a 2012 study, frequent consumption of cocoa powder with milk increases “good” HDL cholesterol and reduces “bad” LDL levels in individuals.
6. Enhances Mental Performance
Polyphenols present in cocoa powder have been shown in studies to lessen the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. Cocoa powder contains flavanols, which generate neurons and other critical chemicals for brain function and health.
Furthermore, these flavanols have an effect on nitric oxide synthesis. This helps relax the muscles in your blood vessels, hence improving blood flow and circulation to the brain.
Additionally, mental performance can be improved by consuming cocoa powder often. Pure Cocoa is very rich in my, which is necessary for normal brain and nerve function.
7. Might Help in Reducing Asthma Effects
Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes airway blockage. This condition, if not adequately treated, can be fatal. On the other hand, Cocoa powder contains theobromine and theophylline, which are anti-asthmatic compounds. Theobromine aids in controlling chronic coughing, whereas Theophylline aids in the smooth breathing of the lungs.
8. Reduces Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Few studies have postulated that a higher intake of flavanols, especially from cocoa, might result in a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. In addition, other studies have shown that eating flavanol-rich cocoa can improve insulin sensitivity, blood sugar control and reduce inflammation in both diabetic and nondiabetic people.
9. Fortifies Heart Health
Taking pure cocoa can fortify your heart by reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Cocoa contains flavonoids, such as catechin, epicatechin, and procyanidin. This powerful trio relaxes and dilates your arteries and blood vessels, which improves blood flow and strengthens the heart. Consuming one serving of pure cocoa per day can reduce your risk of heart attack, high blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke.
Bottom Line
Cocoa powder offers numerous health benefits that cannot be overstated. Since chocolate is addictive as it contains extra calories and sugar, it is best to drink more cocoa powder than chocolate.
You can easily get cocoa powder from your local store near you. Order some today and get the health benefits.
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Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.
