Cocoa powder, which is most available in our latitudes in this form, is obtained from the fruit of the tree Theobroma cacao, which in translation means "food of the gods". And indeed, cocoa is a product with a unique, unique composition.
Let's try to understand what is useful for cocoa for humans. It is known that the indigenous tribes of Indians, who use it for food, are longevity, and are also not exposed to cardiovascular diseases. But this is not the whole list of his good qualities.
Useful properties of cocoa powder
Cocoa is able to improve mood and is a good preventive and curative remedy for fighting depression. This is due to the fact that the beans of the chocolate tree contain two special substances: anandamide and tryptophan. They cause increased production of hormones of endorphin and serotonin, causing a sense of euphoria and satisfaction.
Theobromine, which is in cocoa, is the closest relative of all known caffeine. Therefore, traditional coffee in the morning can be safely replaced with a cup of hot cocoa, the effect will be the same.
How useful is cocoa for women?
This product, thanks to flavonoids and natural antioxidants, helps the body to fight free radicals that cause pathological health conditions and cause the body to wear out more quickly and grow old. After all, it is important for women to remain young and blooming as long as possible. Also, a cocoa drink with its regular use has a good effect on the menstrual cycle, facilitates the symptoms of PMS, which means it will be useful for women and girls with such problems.
For dieters, this tasty drink will be a real salvation. Caloric content is not large, but he will provide cheerfulness and a good mood. The only "but": do not use sugar, in the extreme case of cocoa can sweeten fructose .
How useful is cocoa with milk?
Answering this question, it should be noted that the level of magnesium and iron is high in cocoa, and milk gives calorie to the drink and is also rich in calcium.
Recent studies have shown that a drink of cocoa is useful for the elderly. It turns out that it regulates the level of blood pressure, and also it influences blood circulation in the brain, helping to keep the mind clear for a long time.
Unfortunately, almost all these useful properties are lost when making cocoa beans from chocolate . However, this does not concern the bitter sorts of this delicacy.