The Latin name of the cocoa tree (Theobroma Cacao) means “the food of the gods”. This has its justification in the composition of raw cocoa beans. They are extremely rich in nutritional values, so it’s worth including them in your daily diet.
Raw cocoa beans are cocoa tree seeds, which originally grew in the tropical forests of South and Central America. Currently, the largest cocoa producers are countries, such as the ivory, Ghana and Indonesia coast. Each fruit contains several dozen cocoa seeds that are surrounded by white mucus.
Kakowiec has many varieties, the most popular of which is Strangercharacterized by a classic chocolate taste. Another known variety is Creoleoffering more floral and fruity notes. Raw cocoa beans can be purchased at health food stores, both stationary and internet.
Cocoa beans are a real treasury of nutrients. They contain over 300 relationships that have a positive effect on our health. They are rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which neutralize free radicals and delay the aging process.
Raw cocoa beans provide magnesium, iron, potassium and B vitamins. Hence, their regular consumption supports the cardiovascular system, improves the mood thanks to the content of theobromine and caffeine, and also strengthens the immune system. What’s more, polyphenols contained in these seeds reduce blood pressure and improve cognitive functions.
An exceptional component of cocoa beans is epicatechin, which can only be found in a raw product. It strengthens muscle development and increases insulin sensitivity. She is responsible for the bitter taste of cocoa tree seeds.
Raw cocoa beans are characterized by an intense, slightly bitter tastewhich goes perfectly with many dishes. They will be appreciated not only by people who care about health, but also those on a diet because they inhibit appetite. There are several ways to include them in your menu:
- grain crunch directly as a healthy alternative to sweets,
- Add crushed grains to porridge, muesi or yogurt to enrich the taste and nutritional value of the meal,
- enrich them with cakes, cookies or homemade energy bars, adding crunchiness and depth of taste,
- Mix the grains with your favorite ingredients, creating nutritious cocktails or add to hot chocolate for an intense aroma,
- Experiment by adding grains to sauces or marinades, giving the dishes a unique character.
The recommended dose of raw cocoa beans is about 10-20 g, which is about 5-10 seeds a day. You can’t overdo them because they contain caffeine and theobromine that stimulates.
Source: NowowoPuje.pl
