Health Benefits of Using Cocoa Powder in Your Smoothies

Many people love drinking smoothies for breakfast or as a snack. It can be made from various ingredients, including fruit, vegetables, nuts, and many more. It is easy, healthy, and tasty. However, there is one fantastic ingredient most people forget about, cocoa powder.

Cocoa powder is made from cocoa beans, which come from a plant called Theobroma cacao L. It is very healthy and provides various benefits. Modern research has revealed that it does indeed contain important compounds that can benefit your health. Here, you will find information about cocoa's nutritional value, effects on nerve function, anti-cancerous properties, and more. Read on!

Cocoa Powder Contains Powerful Antioxidants

The most important component in cocoa is a type of antioxidant called flavonoids. This substance has been found to have anti-cancer properties. Flavonoids can prevent cell damage, which is why they help to fight against cancer. They also protect the lungs and cardiovascular system. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that cocoa powder could inhibit blood clotting, and it is a good source of flavanols.

Cocoa Powder Helps Lose Weight

Cocoa is known as a stimulant, and indeed, it contains compounds that boost your energy levels. Flavanols in cocoa speed up your metabolism and increase your energy levels. See more organic chocolate products with cocoa powder that you can include to your diet to yield health benefits.

Cocoa has been shown to be effective against obesity as it can also suppress your appetite. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition revealed that cocoa powder could reduce the amount of insulin needed after meals. This means that it can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Cocoa Helps You Build Strong Bones and Teeth

Cocoa contains minerals like calcium, manganese, and magnesium. These are necessary for bone health and the proper functioning of your body's cells. Magnesium is also essential for cognitive functions; it helps develop muscles and nerves, and it regulates your blood pressure. Magnesium improves the absorption of vitamin C, too.

Another study published in the American Society for Clinical Nutrition found that cocoa can increase bone density in postmenopausal women, especially if combined with calcium. The same study also revealed that cocoa has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help treat osteoporosis and arthritis.

Cocoa Powder Helps to Relax Your Mind and Body After a Stressful Day

Cocoa contains phenylethylamine (PEA), an organic compound that produces feelings of euphoria and excitement when it enters your body. It is also responsible for producing endorphins, which help to improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and improve your sleep patterns. Chocolate and cocoa have long been known as mood-boosting foods. In fact, chocolate was once used as a cheap form of medicine in the 1700s to cure depression and insomnia.

Cocoa Powder Lowers Bad Cholesterol Levels

Studies show that dark chocolate reduces LDL cholesterol levels by up to 10%. It also slows down platelet aggregation because it contains catechins, which are known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, it contains stearic acid, which can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels by blocking its receptors on the liver. Consuming dark chocolate regularly can help decrease your risk of stroke and coronary heart disease.

Cocoa Powder Improves Brain Function

Cocoa contains phenylethylamine (PEA), which helps improve cognitive function by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is one of the brain chemicals responsible for boosting memory and improving learning ability. PEA also contributes to better communication between neurons because it increases dopamine levels. Dopamine is responsible for regulating pleasure responses in the brain.

Cocoa is rich in carbohydrates and fiber, both of which are essential for maintaining optimum blood sugar levels; this prevents mood swings, fatigue, and depression. Another study found that cocoa can improve memory retention and mental performance because it helps increase acetylcholine levels in the brain; Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter involved in memory formation.

Cocoa Powder Prevents Depression and Helps You Relax

Cocoa can help treat depression because it contains the same neurochemicals found in antidepressants. Serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins are all responsible for reducing symptoms of depression. In addition, studies have shown that individuals who regularly consume cocoa have a lower risk of having high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Cocoa Powder Is Good for Your Digestive System

Cocoa contains fiber, which is essential for the proper functioning of your body's digestive system. Fiber helps eliminate waste from the body and keeps your intestines healthy. In addition, it can lower cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of colon cancer. Fiber also provides short-term satiety, which means consuming cocoa can prevent overeating and weight gain.

Cocoa Powder Reduces Your Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases

Studies show that cocoa can lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol levels. This means that it can reduce your risk of developing heart disease and stroke. It also helps keep your blood vessels healthy and improves blood flow to your heart by lowering blood pressure levels. This can increase energy levels, faster recovery from exercise, and better performance during physical activities.

Conclusion

As you can see, cocoa powder has numerous health benefits that you can receive by including it to your diet. It will greatly improve your health, reduce the risks of various illnesses, and boost your energy. You can forget about negative thoughts because the cocoa powder will improve your mood, so you will feel happy most of the time.