Chocolate is one of the most appreciated foods in the world. It is, in fact, delicious, can be consumed in a variety of ways, makes any recipe more delicious, and still carries the reputation of being a great ally in combating moodiness.
But does this benefit attributed to chocolate really make sense? Why is food so well known for providing a sense of well-being ?!
The answer lies in cocoa, your main ingredient? which, among other advantages, provides pleasure thanks to the stimulation of serotonin production.
However, of course, everyone knows that it is not advisable to consume chocolates in large quantities and very often. That's because in chocolate, besides cocoa, are included several ingredients that make it greasy, caloric? This can lead to obesity and other serious health problems in case of excessive consumption.
So, the best way to enjoy the benefits that cocoa can offer? and are not just about providing the feeling of well-being? It is consuming it in powder and without adding sugar.
Also read: Can Shakes Replace a Meal?
Today, cocoa powder is easily found on the market. Its consumption is usually even indicated among nutritionists.
Health Benefits Of Cocoa Powder
The advantages of consuming cocoa powder are numerous. It is a food rich in vitamins (such as vitamin C and vitamin E) and minerals (such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, potassium and sodium), and contains good amounts of fiber.
Learn about the key health benefits cocoa can offer:
1. Is an antioxidant
Fernanda Machado, nutritionist at Nutri Import, points out that cocoa is a powerful antioxidant (fights free radicals) and therefore prevents premature aging and the onset of some diseases.
Read also: 10 facts about chocolate that you may not know
2. Improves mood
One of the main benefits of cocoa is that it is a source of tryptophan? amino acid responsible for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to well-being.
Does Cocoa Raise Serotonin Levels? mood-enhancing neurotransmitter, is it a source of dopamine? that acts in the control of movement, memory and sensation of pleasure? and phenylethylamine? that acts on the central nervous system? generating a good feeling of well-being ?, says Fernanda.
3. It is beneficial for the intestines
Does cocoa help regulate intestinal flora as it contains flavonoids that serve as food for probiotic bacteria? which in turn benefit the gut.
4. Is ally of the heart
Rich in phytochemicals and antioxidant flavonoids (which fight free radicals), cocoa helps promote cardiovascular health.
Cocoa also helps in controlling cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
5. Benefits people with diabetes
Cocoa can help people with diabetes because it is related to improved insulin action (disease-related hormone).
Cocoa Powder: Ally in Weight Loss?
Besides helping to prevent premature aging, protecting the heart, improving mood, cocoa powder can still be a great ally for those who want to lose a few pounds.
Is cocoa rich in polyphenols? Substance that, in addition to antioxidant (fights the effects of free radicals in the body), is considered thermogenic, ie, is related to fat burning.
Of course, for this, cocoa must be included in a balanced diet, guided by a nutritionist.
Fernanda adds that cocoa powder is a great ally in diet and healthy life, as it provides, in addition to benefits, a sense of pleasure and pleasure, which makes it a good indication for those times when the person wants to eat chocolate?.
How to consume cocoa powder?
Cocoa powder can be used in a variety of healthy recipes. According to Fernanda, good tips are to use it in the preparation of cakes, cookies, pancakes, vitamins.
? A good option is also to put the cocoa sprinkled in yogurt, hot banana and fruit. What counts is to use creativity according to one's taste ?, adds the nutritionist.
Fernanda points out that cocoa is not sweet. Therefore, depending on the recipe, it is necessary to use sweetener or honey, agave, natural sweetener or brown sugar. It is not necessary to sweeten when using in fruits ?, he says.
The amount recommended for consumption varies greatly from person to person and should be indicated by a nutritionist or nutritionist so that the benefits of cocoa can truly be enjoyed.
As cocoa has a strong flavor, it is usually not necessary to use much. The amount will also depend on the recipe ?, adds Fernanda.
Healthy Cocoa Recipes
1. Cocoa Banana for Pre Workout
Ingredients
- 1 silver banana
- 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon cane molasses
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Method of preparation: Simply chop or mash the banana and add the remaining ingredients.
2. Shake with green banana and cocoa biomass
Ingredients
- 200ml of rice milk or almond milk
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon green banana biomass
Method of preparation: Mix all ingredients in a blender. Add ice if desired and serve then.
3. Vitamin with banana and cocoa
Ingredients
- 200ml water or almond milk
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 silver banana
- 1 tablespoon oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon amaranth
- 1 teaspoon chia
- Cinnamon powder to taste
Ready Mode: Mix all ingredients in a blender. Add ice and serve.
4. Whole Cocoa Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup oven sweetener and sucralose stove or other of your own
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 2 cups of water
Method of preparation: In a blender, beat all ingredients, leaving the yeast last. Place in a greased coconut oil pan and bake in preheated oven at 180 degrees for 40 to 45 minutes or until toothpick comes out dry.
Now you have some tips for including cocoa powder in your diet. But remember: To enjoy all the benefits it can offer, it is best to always follow the advice of a nutritionist.
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