Eleven Benefits of Cocoa powder that you don’t know about

Cocoa is believed to have first been used by the Maya Civilization of Central America. It was introduced to Europe by Spanish conquerors in the sixteenth century and quickly became popular as a health-promoting medicine. Coca powder is made by crushing cocoa beans and removing the fat or cocoa butter. 

Today, cocoa is most famous for its role in chocolate production. However, modern research has revealed that it does certainly contain important compounds that can benefit your health.   

The 11 health and nutrition benefits of cocoa powder are:

• Rich in Polyphenols that provide several health benefits.

• May reduce your high blood pressure by improving nitric oxide levels.

• May lower the risk of heart attack and stroke of the consumer.

• Polyphenols improve blood flow to your brain and brain function.

• May improve mood and symptoms of depression by various means.

• Flavanols can improve the symptoms of someone suffering from type 2 diabetes.

• May aid weight control in many surprising ways.

• May have cancer-protective properties. 

• Theobromine and theophylline contents may help people with asthma condition. 

• Antibacterial and immune-stimulating properties may benefit consumers' teeth and skin. 

• Easy to include in your diet. 

The bottom line is that cocoa has captivated the world for thousands of years

Healthy cocoa powder is a big part of modern cuisine in the form of chocolate. Health benefits of cocoa powder include decreased inflammation, improved heart and brain health, blood sugar and weight control, and healthy teeth and skin. 

It’s nutritious and to-easy to add to your diet in creative ways. However, make sure to use non-alkalized cocoa powder or dark chocolate containing more than 70% cocoa if you want to maximize the health benefits. 

Remember that chocolate still contains significant quantities of sugar and fats, so if you are going to use it, stick to reasonable portion sizes and combine it with a healthy balanced diet.

Fun fact: Does cacao have caffeine? Yes, although not a lot. The primary stimulant drug in cacao is theobromine (which, despite its name, contains no bromine). 

Another fact: Cocoa extract has indicated some anti-asthmatic properties in animal studies. However, human trials as needed before it can be recommended as a treatment.