Contents
Cocoa
The ancient use of cocoa can be traced back to the inhabitants of Central America from about 1000 BC. Where the Aztec people used it as a liquid drink to help fight fatigue, and it was called (Chocolatl), and chocolate is made from the cocoa plant , by pressing the roasted cocoa seeds with special equipment, and the chocolate is distinguished by its bitter taste, while sweet chocolate is obtained by adding sugar Vanilla and bitter chocolate, while white chocolate consists of sugar, cocoa butter , and milk, and cocoa powder is obtained by grinding the materials resulting from the cocoa butter squeezing process.Of bitter chocolate, cocoa powder is used in the preparation of many products such as some baked goods, juices, and frozen yogurt, and it can also be added to hot milk, to obtain hot chocolate. [1] [2] [3]
The benefits of cocoa drink
Some studies indicate that cocoa consumption among the Kuna Indians has been effective in protecting them from some kidney problems and high blood pressure , and it is considered a healthier option than others. Drink cocoa powder or cocoa powder: [3] [4] [5]
- Cocoa powder contains polyphenols , which is a antioxidant that works to maintain the health of the heart and blood vessels.
- Cocoa powder improves mood and is an antidepressant because it contains phenethylamine, which is a neurotransmitter in the brain.
- Hot cocoa drink contains a higher percentage of antioxidants such as flavonoids compared to some other drinks such as green tea, which help reduce the risk of some diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and aging.
- It is associated with lowering blood pressure, improving blood vessel health, and also helping to increase good cholesterol in the blood (HDL), which is rich in magnesium and flavonoids.
- Helps reduce insulin resistance; Which works to regulate blood sugar and reduce the risk of diabetes.
- It reduces harmful cholesterol by more than 5 mg / dL, among people at risk of heart disease, but more studies are still needed to prove this, and there is no harm in preparing cocoa drink that provides these benefits, using two tablespoons of it. [6]
Cocoa damage
Cocoa use causes some problems and symptoms, including the following: [4] [1]
- It contains caffeine, which can have negative effects on the body, such as feeling restless, nervous, increased urination , and a rapid heartbeat, and it also contains oxalates. As an increase in it may contribute to the formation of kidney stones in people who are at risk of developing them.
- It causes some pain in the digestive system, such as nausea, gas , and constipation.
- Consuming too much cocoa increases the risk of bleeding, as it slows blood clotting, especially among people with bleeding disorders.
- People who suffer from glaucoma in the eyes are advised to use cocoa with caution, as it may increase pressure on the eyes.
- Cocoa increases the severity of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, and consuming it in large quantities causes diarrhea.
- Caffeine increases the amount of calcium in the urine, so people with osteoporosis are advised to use it with caution.
Cocoa during pregnancy
The body can quickly and efficiently digest caffeine when it is obtained from some of its sources such as cocoa, while the fetus cannot do that, as caffeine reaches the fetus’s bloodstream through the mother’s placenta, which hinders the absorption of calcium and iron. The two play an important role in the growth of the fetus, as it increases the risk of increased heartbeat of the fetus, and affects its movement in the womb, and therefore it is advised that a pregnant woman consult a doctor to know the recommended quantities of cocoa consumption, as one study found that a higher risk of miscarriage It increases by 59% in women who drink 8 cups of caffeine, and it is recommended to avoid drinking it, and that the amount does not exceed one cup for those who cannot avoid it completely. [7]
Cocoa allergy
Some people can suffer from what is known as an allergy due to eating some items or food products, such as cocoa allergy, due to the possibility that it contains nickel, which causes allergic reactions in the skin, and it is worth noting that chocolate manufacturing depends entirely on cocoa when it is produced, as it is added to it. Many other ingredients, such as sugar, artificial sweeteners, milk, nuts, soybeans, and others, which may cause allergic reactions, especially in those with lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, or peanut allergyIt should be noted that cocoa allergy is rare, and it is accompanied by the emergence of some symptoms, such as: headache, rash, heartburn, and difficulty breathing, and it is recommended to consult a doctor for help in diagnosing the condition and prescribing the appropriate treatment, and it is always preferable to pay attention to the nutritional information card Read the ingredients listed on them before consuming them. [8]
The nutritional value of cocoa
Cocoa provides the body with small amounts of minerals, such as: calcium, iron , magnesium, phosphorous, and some vitamins, such as vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, and folic acid, in addition to vitamin E and vitamin K, and one serving contains Cocoa contains 12 mg of caffeine. Here are some of the nutrients found in a tablespoon of cocoa powder: [2] [9]
| Nutrients | Nutritional value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 30 calories |
| Protein | 0.40 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugar | 1 gram |
| Fats | 1.5 grams |
| Saturated fat | 0.2 mg |
| Iron | 1.22 mg |
References
- ^ A b "COCOA" , the www.webmd.com , Retrieved 5-4-2018. Edited.
- ^ A b the LANA BILLINGS-SMITH (3-10-2017), "What ' Is the Raw Cacao the Powder?" , Www.livestrong.com , Retrieved 5-4-2018. Edited.
- ^ A b "Cacao - Nature's 'Guilty' Pleasure" , Www.health24.com , 3-11-2014, Retrieved 4-4-2018. Edited.
- ^ A b MEGAN ASHTON (3-10-2017), " the Cocoa Health Benefits the Powder" , Www.livestrong.com , Retrieved 5-4-2018. Edited.
- ↑ Bill Hendrick (23-3-2011), "Cocoa Rich in Health Benefits" , www.webmd.com , Retrieved 5-4-2018. Edited.
- ↑ Christine M Porretta, "11 Power Foods for Lower Cholesterol" , www.everydayhealth.com , Retrieved 5-4-2018. Edited.
- ↑ KAY TANG (13-6-2017), "Is Cocoa Bad for Pregnant Women?" , Www.livestrong.com , Retrieved 5-4-2018. Edited.
- ↑ KRISTIE BISHOPP (3-10-2017), "Can You Be Allergic to Cocoa?" , Www.livestrong.com , Retrieved 5-4-2018. Edited.
- ↑ "Full Report (All Nutrients): 45014707, CACAO, UPC: 5900102002016" , www.ndb.nal.usda.gov , Retrieved 4-17-2018. Edited.
