17 Impressive Cocoa Benefits
Health benefits of cocoa include relief from high blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, constipation, diabetes, bronchial asthma, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, and various neurodegenerative diseases. It is beneficial for quick wound healing, skin care, and it helps to improve cardiovascular health and brain health. It also helps in treating copper deficiency. It possesses mood-enhancing properties and exerts protective effects against neurotoxicity.
What Is Cocoa?
Cocoa beans are the fermented seeds of the cacao tree, whose Latin name is Theobroma cacao, which means “Food of the Gods”. It is native to the Amazon region and as the meaning suggests, it was historically considered a very important crop in Central and South America. In fact, its beans were so prized that the native tribes used them as a form of currency. The cacao tree stands about 12-25 feet tall and grows naturally in tropical climates.
The fruit of the cocoa tree is a pod full of sweet pulp enfolding a cluster of about 20-40 cacao seeds. Today, it is produced across the world, with about forty percent of the harvesting done in Cote d’Ivoire, along with Indonesia, Ghana, Brazil, Nigeria, and Cameroon contributing to the overall production. Along with its well-established role in the manufacturing of chocolate, the healing and medicinal benefits of cocoa have [2] been appreciated since the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations were ruling.
Cocoa and chocolate are diverse terminologies. Cocoa refers to the low-fat constituent of the finely ground cacao beans. These ground beans, known as cocoa liquor or cocoa mass, also contain cocoa butter, which is a non-dairy, naturally occurring fat present in cacao beans. About 50-60% of cocoa liquor consists of cocoa butter.
Nutritional Value
Cocoa is rich in [3] minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese. It is also a good source of selenium, potassium, and zinc while providing the body with carbohydrates, protein, and dietary fibers. In addition to this, the cholesterol content in it is almost negligible. It contains cocoa butter, which is a mixture of monounsaturated fats like oleic acid and saturated fats, namely stearic acid and palmitic acid.
It is a lot more than just a guilty pleasure!
Health Benefits Of Cocoa
Cocoa offers [4] anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, anti-carcinogenic, and antioxidant qualities and has demonstrated positive effects by imparting numerous [5] health benefits.
Lowers High Blood Pressure
Flavonoid-rich cocoa aids [6] in lowering blood pressure and improving the elasticity of blood vessels. Research [7] shows positive changes in the systolic and diastolic blood pressure as a consequence of consuming cocoa-based products instead of black and green tea. These favorable changes are attributed to the presence of [8] antioxidants in it that stimulates the [9] production of nitric oxide, which helps keep blood vessels relaxed. Furthermore, this helps in maintaining a healthy circulatory system.
Antioxidant Capacity
A comparative research [10] study has made it evident that cocoa exhibits higher antioxidant activity than black tea, green tea, and red wine. Antioxidants help neutralize the oxygen-based free radicals that are present in the body. In addition to this, it is abundant in phenolic phytochemicals and possesses a high amount of flavonoids as well.
Improves Brain Health
Scientists have suggested [11] that flavanol-rich cocoa powder may aid in maintaining [12] a healthy brain. These neuroprotective benefits could also have favorable effects on learning and memory functions. The findings have advocated that the consumption [13] of cocoa-based products enhances the flow of blood to the brain and they have provided evidence of the therapeutic potential for [14] curing vascular disorders.
Balances Cholesterol Levels
A research [15] study has shown that cocoa has hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic effects on both glucose and cholesterol levels, respectively. A diet containing it has also shown a reduction in triglycerides, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and glucose level. It has also demonstrated a noteworthy rise in the levels of healthy HDL (good) cholesterol in the test subjects.
Treats Diabetes
The consumption [16] of cocoa powder has been shown to be effective in improving insulin resistance and glucose metabolism. This, in turn, aids in regulating sugar levels in the body. The proanthocyanidins derived from [17] it help in inhibiting the cataract formation occasionally induced by diabetes. An investigative study [18] has confirmed that it exerts protective antioxidant activity in the treatment of long-term diabetic complications such as diabetic nephrotoxicity. Nephrotoxicity plays a key role in diabetes mellitus and it is the major cause of severe renal disease. Free radicals aggravate these diabetic complications by promoting oxidative stress, leading to cell and tissue damage. The free radical scavenging activity of cacao powder has shown therapeutic effects in treating and preventing this sort of cellular injury. The consumption [19] of this flavanol-rich bean also has therapeutic potential in improving the vascular function of diabetics on various medications.
Relieves Bronchial Asthma
Cacao beans contain [20] xanthine and theophylline, which aid in relaxing bronchial spasms and opening constricted bronchial tubes. This facilitates an easy flow of air and is valuable in curing various allergies, including asthma and shortness of breath. Its consumption, therefore, helps in providing relief from bronchial asthma.
Speeds up Healing
Cocoa extracts [21] have been trusted for their therapeutic and wound-healing properties in the manufacturing of natural medicinal products. The extracts help in preventing the development of various kinds of infections in the body. If consumed along with the appropriate medication, it has also been considered helpful [22] in eradicating Helicobacter pylori bacteria from the body.
Manages Obesity
A study [23] has shown the potential benefits of cocoa in preventing high-fat-diet-induced obesity. Its intake helps in modulating lipid metabolism and reducing the synthesis and transport of fatty acids. It has also demonstrated an improvement in thermogenesis, the mechanism of heat production in white adipose tissues and the liver.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Cocoa powder exerts [25] beneficial effects on cardiovascular health as well [24]. It is rich [26] in flavonoids namely, procyanidin, catechin, and epicatechin, which have antioxidant properties and help in protecting [27] the cells from damage while strengthening the heart. It prevents the formation of fatal blood clots, which can lead to stroke or cardiac failure. The flavonoids present in cocoa possess anti-platelet aggregating effects [29] and modulate primary hemostasis, which [30] is the measure of time blood takes to clot. All these health effects help in preventing the proliferation of various medical conditions like atherosclerosis and thrombosis, which are some of the prime causes of more serious cardiovascular diseases.
Enhances Mood
Consuming cocoa powder has shown antidepressant-like effects [31] on certain physiological processes. Is flavonols help enhance mood, combat depression, and promote improved cognitive activities during persistent mental exertion. The presence of the neurochemical phenylethylamine in it also helps in enhancing feelings of contentment and promoting aphrodisiac effects [32].
Treats Constipation
Research [33] studies have demonstrated that the consumption of cocoa husk exerts therapeutic effects in treating chronic constipation and bowel function diseases. According to a study done on pediatric patients, consumption of fiber-rich cocoa products resulted in faster colonic, rectal and intestinal transit times. Regular consumption of [34] cocoa encourages better bowel function. This is because it helps reduce bowel movement time, increase the frequency of bowel movements, and a softens consistency of stool without inducing any other side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort.
Prevents Cancer
Cocoa has demonstrated beneficial effects [35] in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells without affecting the growth of normal healthy cells. Studies [36] have provided evidence regarding the chemopreventive and anti-proliferative qualities exerted by the flavonols and procyanidins present in it. These healing effects have proven extremely valuable in the treatment of various types of cancer, including colon cancer and prostate cancer.
Treats Copper Deficiency
Cocoa extends its benefits to treating copper deficiency in patients on long-term [37] enteral nutrition. The bean is quite valuable in copper substitution therapy. It has resulted in significant improvements in the hemoglobin level, leucocyte count, and copper content in such patients. According to the findings [38], cocoa is considered valuable as a copper-rich component to be included in the diet to maintain normal levels of copper as well as a remedy for treating copper deficiency in such conditions. It helps in preventing and treating the diseases caused due to copper deficiency in the body such as anemia, neutropenia, and leukopenia.
Reduces Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Cocoa powder has been shown to exert calming effects on people [39] suffering from chronic fatigue. Its attenuating [40]effects are attributed to the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, anandamide, and phenylethylamine in the brain. These exert protective effects from oxidative stress on the neuronal cells and helps in combating chronic fatigue syndrome.
Skin Care
Cocoa powder has also been found to be effective in maintaining good skin health. Research [41] findings suggest that the consumption of flavonol-rich cocoa helps in decreasing the effects of UV-induced [42] erythema, and reducing skin roughness and scaling. It also aids in enhancing skin elasticity, hydration, and density. Another study [43] confirmed that epicatechin present in cacao aids in elevating the oxygen saturation of hemoglobin, stimulating the healthy flow of blood in the dermal tissues, and [44] contributing to endogenous photo-protection. It is used in the preparation of various skin care products.
Treats Neurodegenerative Disorders
The presence of major flavonols like epicatechin and catechin in cocoa has shown beneficial [45] effects in treating [46] neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Research [47] findings suggest that these phytochemicals have synergistic qualities, which aid in reducing the oxidative stress on the mind. This helps in preventing neuronal cell damage and exerts a protective effect on the cellular membrane against cytotoxicity.
Prevents Magnesium Deficiency
Another benefit of cocoa products is their role in preventing the ill effects of a magnesium deficiency [48] in the body. The regular [49] consumption of cocoa products may prove beneficial in preventing the adverse effects caused due to a diet lacking in magnesium for an extended period of time.
Cocoa – A Culinary Gift
Cocoa has been treasured worldwide for its usage in the manufacturing of chocolate and other sweet delicacies. Cacao beans are roasted, husked, ground and, depending on the desired product, sweetened and flavored to produce chocolate. Several types of chocolate are produced from cacao beans, including unsweetened chocolate, bittersweet chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate. Cocoa butter is also used as a substitute for gelatin to enhance the flavor and aroma of food. Cocoa butter has a melting point below the human body temperature, so it melts and provides a smooth and creamy taste to many preparations to make them even more palatable. These benefits make cocoa butter a healthy, plant-based alternative to be included in recipes, rather than gelatin, which is derived from animal by-products.
Uses Of Cocoa
Cocoa mulch is a by-product and is produced [50] from the discarded shells of cacao beans. Mulch is valuable in efforts to reduce weeds, regulate the temperature of the soil, prevent soil erosion, and increase its nutritive value. Roasting cacao beans release their shells, which are further used to produce cocoa mulch. This is rich in naturally available macro-nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, all of which are valuable for plant health. Cacao beans have water retention capability too.
Side Effects
The major side effects of cocoa include:
Caffeine addiction: Cocoa is a source [51] of caffeine. However, the consumption of excess caffeine (or its addiction) can lead to various side effects such as increased urination, sleeplessness, and irregular heartbeat. Excess caffeine can also aggravate the conditions of people already suffering from anxiety disorders or diarrhea. Excess amounts of caffeine during breastfeeding can result in crankiness and abdominal discomfort in infants. It may also worsen the condition of gastro-esophageal reflux disease and is advised to be avoided prior to surgeries to avoid any interference with blood sugar control.
Allergic reactions: Cocoa can cause allergic reactions to those who possess a sensitivity towards it. Allergies include skin reactions, migraine headaches, digestive discomfort like gas, and nausea.
Drug interactions: Caffeine may influence the effects of certain medications prescribed before the diagnostic test associated with the heart. It is generally advised to avoid caffeine-rich beverages or foods before such cardiac examinations. It may interact with certain medications including Clozaril, dipyridamole, ergotamine, phenylpropanolamine, and theophylline, and influence their effects on the body. In addition to this, cocoa might also interact with the drugs for asthma, depression, and diabetes. Consult your doctor before adding a new type of food, especially one with so many unique compounds, into your diet.
In addition to cacao beans, the therapeutic utilization [52] of cacao bark, butter and flowers have also been valued since ancient times for treating various diseases like skin ailments, bowel malfunction, and wounds. Commercially available chocolates and cocoa-products may not be rich in the original beneficial flavonols of cacao beans since they might get destroyed by over-processing. In order to obtain the benefits of cocoa, it is important to consume the correctly sourced cocoa. A small piece of dark, unsweetened or unprocessed chocolate may [53] be considered to add some flavor and health to your diet.
So, enjoy some chocolates! A guilt-free, heavenly, flavorful, and beneficial bite of cocoa is good for everyone!
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/other/health-benefits-of-cocoa.html
What Is Cocoa?
Cocoa beans are the fermented seeds of the cacao tree, whose Latin name is Theobroma cacao, which means “Food of the Gods”. It is native to the Amazon region and as the meaning suggests, it was historically considered a very important crop in Central and South America. In fact, its beans were so prized that the native tribes used them as a form of currency. The cacao tree stands about 12-25 feet tall and grows naturally in tropical climates.
The fruit of the cocoa tree is a pod full of sweet pulp enfolding a cluster of about 20-40 cacao seeds. Today, it is produced across the world, with about forty percent of the harvesting done in Cote d’Ivoire, along with Indonesia, Ghana, Brazil, Nigeria, and Cameroon contributing to the overall production. Along with its well-established role in the manufacturing of chocolate, the healing and medicinal benefits of cocoa have [2] been appreciated since the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations were ruling.
Cocoa and chocolate are diverse terminologies. Cocoa refers to the low-fat constituent of the finely ground cacao beans. These ground beans, known as cocoa liquor or cocoa mass, also contain cocoa butter, which is a non-dairy, naturally occurring fat present in cacao beans. About 50-60% of cocoa liquor consists of cocoa butter.
Nutritional Value
Cocoa is rich in [3] minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese. It is also a good source of selenium, potassium, and zinc while providing the body with carbohydrates, protein, and dietary fibers. In addition to this, the cholesterol content in it is almost negligible. It contains cocoa butter, which is a mixture of monounsaturated fats like oleic acid and saturated fats, namely stearic acid and palmitic acid.
It is a lot more than just a guilty pleasure!
Health Benefits Of Cocoa
Cocoa offers [4] anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, anti-carcinogenic, and antioxidant qualities and has demonstrated positive effects by imparting numerous [5] health benefits.
Lowers High Blood Pressure
Flavonoid-rich cocoa aids [6] in lowering blood pressure and improving the elasticity of blood vessels. Research [7] shows positive changes in the systolic and diastolic blood pressure as a consequence of consuming cocoa-based products instead of black and green tea. These favorable changes are attributed to the presence of [8] antioxidants in it that stimulates the [9] production of nitric oxide, which helps keep blood vessels relaxed. Furthermore, this helps in maintaining a healthy circulatory system.
Antioxidant Capacity
A comparative research [10] study has made it evident that cocoa exhibits higher antioxidant activity than black tea, green tea, and red wine. Antioxidants help neutralize the oxygen-based free radicals that are present in the body. In addition to this, it is abundant in phenolic phytochemicals and possesses a high amount of flavonoids as well.
Improves Brain Health
Scientists have suggested [11] that flavanol-rich cocoa powder may aid in maintaining [12] a healthy brain. These neuroprotective benefits could also have favorable effects on learning and memory functions. The findings have advocated that the consumption [13] of cocoa-based products enhances the flow of blood to the brain and they have provided evidence of the therapeutic potential for [14] curing vascular disorders.
Balances Cholesterol Levels
A research [15] study has shown that cocoa has hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic effects on both glucose and cholesterol levels, respectively. A diet containing it has also shown a reduction in triglycerides, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and glucose level. It has also demonstrated a noteworthy rise in the levels of healthy HDL (good) cholesterol in the test subjects.
Treats Diabetes
The consumption [16] of cocoa powder has been shown to be effective in improving insulin resistance and glucose metabolism. This, in turn, aids in regulating sugar levels in the body. The proanthocyanidins derived from [17] it help in inhibiting the cataract formation occasionally induced by diabetes. An investigative study [18] has confirmed that it exerts protective antioxidant activity in the treatment of long-term diabetic complications such as diabetic nephrotoxicity. Nephrotoxicity plays a key role in diabetes mellitus and it is the major cause of severe renal disease. Free radicals aggravate these diabetic complications by promoting oxidative stress, leading to cell and tissue damage. The free radical scavenging activity of cacao powder has shown therapeutic effects in treating and preventing this sort of cellular injury. The consumption [19] of this flavanol-rich bean also has therapeutic potential in improving the vascular function of diabetics on various medications.
Relieves Bronchial Asthma
Cacao beans contain [20] xanthine and theophylline, which aid in relaxing bronchial spasms and opening constricted bronchial tubes. This facilitates an easy flow of air and is valuable in curing various allergies, including asthma and shortness of breath. Its consumption, therefore, helps in providing relief from bronchial asthma.
Speeds up Healing
Cocoa extracts [21] have been trusted for their therapeutic and wound-healing properties in the manufacturing of natural medicinal products. The extracts help in preventing the development of various kinds of infections in the body. If consumed along with the appropriate medication, it has also been considered helpful [22] in eradicating Helicobacter pylori bacteria from the body.
Manages Obesity
A study [23] has shown the potential benefits of cocoa in preventing high-fat-diet-induced obesity. Its intake helps in modulating lipid metabolism and reducing the synthesis and transport of fatty acids. It has also demonstrated an improvement in thermogenesis, the mechanism of heat production in white adipose tissues and the liver.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Cocoa powder exerts [25] beneficial effects on cardiovascular health as well [24]. It is rich [26] in flavonoids namely, procyanidin, catechin, and epicatechin, which have antioxidant properties and help in protecting [27] the cells from damage while strengthening the heart. It prevents the formation of fatal blood clots, which can lead to stroke or cardiac failure. The flavonoids present in cocoa possess anti-platelet aggregating effects [29] and modulate primary hemostasis, which [30] is the measure of time blood takes to clot. All these health effects help in preventing the proliferation of various medical conditions like atherosclerosis and thrombosis, which are some of the prime causes of more serious cardiovascular diseases.
Enhances Mood
Consuming cocoa powder has shown antidepressant-like effects [31] on certain physiological processes. Is flavonols help enhance mood, combat depression, and promote improved cognitive activities during persistent mental exertion. The presence of the neurochemical phenylethylamine in it also helps in enhancing feelings of contentment and promoting aphrodisiac effects [32].
Treats Constipation
Research [33] studies have demonstrated that the consumption of cocoa husk exerts therapeutic effects in treating chronic constipation and bowel function diseases. According to a study done on pediatric patients, consumption of fiber-rich cocoa products resulted in faster colonic, rectal and intestinal transit times. Regular consumption of [34] cocoa encourages better bowel function. This is because it helps reduce bowel movement time, increase the frequency of bowel movements, and a softens consistency of stool without inducing any other side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort.
Prevents Cancer
Cocoa has demonstrated beneficial effects [35] in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells without affecting the growth of normal healthy cells. Studies [36] have provided evidence regarding the chemopreventive and anti-proliferative qualities exerted by the flavonols and procyanidins present in it. These healing effects have proven extremely valuable in the treatment of various types of cancer, including colon cancer and prostate cancer.
Treats Copper Deficiency
Cocoa extends its benefits to treating copper deficiency in patients on long-term [37] enteral nutrition. The bean is quite valuable in copper substitution therapy. It has resulted in significant improvements in the hemoglobin level, leucocyte count, and copper content in such patients. According to the findings [38], cocoa is considered valuable as a copper-rich component to be included in the diet to maintain normal levels of copper as well as a remedy for treating copper deficiency in such conditions. It helps in preventing and treating the diseases caused due to copper deficiency in the body such as anemia, neutropenia, and leukopenia.
Reduces Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Cocoa powder has been shown to exert calming effects on people [39] suffering from chronic fatigue. Its attenuating [40]effects are attributed to the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, anandamide, and phenylethylamine in the brain. These exert protective effects from oxidative stress on the neuronal cells and helps in combating chronic fatigue syndrome.
Skin Care
Cocoa powder has also been found to be effective in maintaining good skin health. Research [41] findings suggest that the consumption of flavonol-rich cocoa helps in decreasing the effects of UV-induced [42] erythema, and reducing skin roughness and scaling. It also aids in enhancing skin elasticity, hydration, and density. Another study [43] confirmed that epicatechin present in cacao aids in elevating the oxygen saturation of hemoglobin, stimulating the healthy flow of blood in the dermal tissues, and [44] contributing to endogenous photo-protection. It is used in the preparation of various skin care products.
Treats Neurodegenerative Disorders
The presence of major flavonols like epicatechin and catechin in cocoa has shown beneficial [45] effects in treating [46] neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Research [47] findings suggest that these phytochemicals have synergistic qualities, which aid in reducing the oxidative stress on the mind. This helps in preventing neuronal cell damage and exerts a protective effect on the cellular membrane against cytotoxicity.
Prevents Magnesium Deficiency
Another benefit of cocoa products is their role in preventing the ill effects of a magnesium deficiency [48] in the body. The regular [49] consumption of cocoa products may prove beneficial in preventing the adverse effects caused due to a diet lacking in magnesium for an extended period of time.
Cocoa – A Culinary Gift
Cocoa has been treasured worldwide for its usage in the manufacturing of chocolate and other sweet delicacies. Cacao beans are roasted, husked, ground and, depending on the desired product, sweetened and flavored to produce chocolate. Several types of chocolate are produced from cacao beans, including unsweetened chocolate, bittersweet chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate. Cocoa butter is also used as a substitute for gelatin to enhance the flavor and aroma of food. Cocoa butter has a melting point below the human body temperature, so it melts and provides a smooth and creamy taste to many preparations to make them even more palatable. These benefits make cocoa butter a healthy, plant-based alternative to be included in recipes, rather than gelatin, which is derived from animal by-products.
Uses Of Cocoa
Cocoa mulch is a by-product and is produced [50] from the discarded shells of cacao beans. Mulch is valuable in efforts to reduce weeds, regulate the temperature of the soil, prevent soil erosion, and increase its nutritive value. Roasting cacao beans release their shells, which are further used to produce cocoa mulch. This is rich in naturally available macro-nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, all of which are valuable for plant health. Cacao beans have water retention capability too.
Side Effects
The major side effects of cocoa include:
Caffeine addiction: Cocoa is a source [51] of caffeine. However, the consumption of excess caffeine (or its addiction) can lead to various side effects such as increased urination, sleeplessness, and irregular heartbeat. Excess caffeine can also aggravate the conditions of people already suffering from anxiety disorders or diarrhea. Excess amounts of caffeine during breastfeeding can result in crankiness and abdominal discomfort in infants. It may also worsen the condition of gastro-esophageal reflux disease and is advised to be avoided prior to surgeries to avoid any interference with blood sugar control.
Allergic reactions: Cocoa can cause allergic reactions to those who possess a sensitivity towards it. Allergies include skin reactions, migraine headaches, digestive discomfort like gas, and nausea.
Drug interactions: Caffeine may influence the effects of certain medications prescribed before the diagnostic test associated with the heart. It is generally advised to avoid caffeine-rich beverages or foods before such cardiac examinations. It may interact with certain medications including Clozaril, dipyridamole, ergotamine, phenylpropanolamine, and theophylline, and influence their effects on the body. In addition to this, cocoa might also interact with the drugs for asthma, depression, and diabetes. Consult your doctor before adding a new type of food, especially one with so many unique compounds, into your diet.
In addition to cacao beans, the therapeutic utilization [52] of cacao bark, butter and flowers have also been valued since ancient times for treating various diseases like skin ailments, bowel malfunction, and wounds. Commercially available chocolates and cocoa-products may not be rich in the original beneficial flavonols of cacao beans since they might get destroyed by over-processing. In order to obtain the benefits of cocoa, it is important to consume the correctly sourced cocoa. A small piece of dark, unsweetened or unprocessed chocolate may [53] be considered to add some flavor and health to your diet.
So, enjoy some chocolates! A guilt-free, heavenly, flavorful, and beneficial bite of cocoa is good for everyone!
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/other/health-benefits-of-cocoa.html
