This is one of the healthiest drinks, it acts on the heart like a balm. Poles still forget about him

Cocoa is the result of a multi -stage process that begins with harvesting cocoa fruit – Trees growing in the interpreter zone. Inside the fruit are located Seeds, which after fermentation and drying become cocoa beans.

Production stages:

1. Fermentation and drying of grains – a natural process that develops aroma and reduces bitterness.
2. Roasting – gives beans a characteristic taste and color.
3. Grinding – leads to the formation of cocoa mass, from which you can produce cocoa powder and cocoa butter.

It is worth noting that the most healthy properties have raw cocoa that has not been roasted. In this form, he retains more valuable bioactive compounds.

Cocoa is the subject of many scientific research for a reason. Numerous opinions and observations confirm the assumptions – cocoa is a treasury of many nutrients that have a positive effect on our well -being and health.

• Heart health support – Flavanole contained in cocoa have an expansion on blood vesselsimproving their flexibility and lowering their blood pressure. Regular consumption of cocoa can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, including atherosclerosis, heart attack or stroke.
• Improving cognitive functions – thanks to antioxidant and anti -inflammatory effects, cocoa supports brain work – improves concentration, memory and executive functions. It can be valuable support in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Stabilization of blood sugar levels – Natural cocoa has a low glycemic index (Ig odes 20). Supports cell sensitivity to insulin, which is important in both prevention and insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
• Strengthening immunity and delaying aging processes – The wealth of polyphenols and minerals (iron, zinc, copper) supports the functioning of the immune systemFather cocoa also has antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
• Relaxing effect – Cocoa affects the nervous system through the content of theobromine and tryptophan – the amino acid responsible for the production of serotonin. It has a gently stimulating effect, but at the same time soothes nervous tension.

This question is often asked in the context of health nutritional trends. Cocoa is safe and beneficial for most people, but some groups will especially benefit from its inclusion in the diet:

• people with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases – due to the hypotensive effect and improvement of the state of endothelium,
• Patients with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes – low IG and glucose supporting action is a big advantage,
• stressed, tired people with sleep or mood problems – natural substances in cocoa regulate the nervous system,
• Seniors – to maintain good memory, concentration and general well -being,
• Children and youth – as a healthy alternative to sweetened drinks, if cocoa is used without the addition of sugar.

To fully use the potential of this drink, Avoid ready -made mixtures with sugar and milk powder. It is best to prepare cocoa yourself, using natural cocoa powder without additives or raw cocoa beans.

Recipe for healthy cocoa:

• 1 tablespoon of real, unsweetened cocoa
• 200-250 ml of milk (vegetable or cow)
• possibly a bit of natural honey or xylitol
• Optional: cinnamon, cardamom or a pinch of turmeric

Heat the milk, add cocoa and mix thoroughly. Do not cook – too high temperature can destroy some bioactive compounds.

Despite numerous advantages, there are situations in which it is worth being careful:

• Allergy to cocoa – though rare, can be manifested by skin lesions and stomach ailments, should certainly be careful of people who are allergic to milk who do not tolerate lactose. An alternative to them is the preparation of cocoa on a plant drink,
• Hypersensitivity to caffeine or theobromine – cocoa contains those alkaloids that can stimulate the nervous system.
• People with a tendency to constipation – in larger amounts of cocoa can be dently.
• Reduction diet – sweetened cocoa can be caloric. Versions without sugar are a much better choice.

Although often associated with childhood, cocoa deserves A permanent place also in the diet of adults who want to take care of the health of their heart and fitness. It is only worth remembering to choose natural forms, without sugar additives, and prepare a drink in a way that retains its valuable properties.

Source: NowowoPuje.pl