Cocoa Powder
Possible health benefits of cocoa powder include decreased inflammation, improved heart and brain health, and blood sugar and weight management.
Possible health and nutrition benefits of cocoa powder.
1. Cocoa is a source of polyphenols. Polyphenols are naturally occurring antioxidants in foods such as fruits, vegetables, tea, chocolate, and wine.
Researchers have linked polyphenols to numerous health benefits, including reduced inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improved heart health.
Cocoa contains flavanols, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Cocoa may be able to help lower blood pressure.
The flavanols in cocoa may help improve nitric oxide levels in the blood, which can enhance blood vessel function and reduce blood pressure.
3. May lower your risk of heart attack and stroke
In addition to lowering blood pressure, it appears that cocoa has other properties that may reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Flavanol-rich cocoa improves the level of nitric oxide in the blood, which relaxes and dilates your arteries and blood vessels and improves blood flow.
This may help lower the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke.
Polyphenols, such as those in cocoa, may reduce your risk of neurodegenerative diseases by improving brain function and blood flow.
Cocoa’s effect on the brain may improve mood
While consuming a lot of chocolate does not support blood sugar management, cocoa does have some antidiabetic effects.
Cocoa flavanols may help improve insulin secretion and reduce inflammation.
Moderate cocoa intake, even in the form of chocolate, may help with weight management.
Cocoa may help by regulating the use of energy and increasing fat oxidation.
Cocoa has the highest concentration of flavanols out of all foods per weight.
Flavanol-rich diets may help lower the risk of cancer.
9. Cocoa may be beneficial for people with asthma, as it contains anti-asthmatic compounds, such as theobromine and theophylline.
HOW TO USE COCOA POWDER
Cocoa powder is incredibly versatile. You can make rich hot cocoa, bake deep chocolate brownies and cakes, or blend it into smoothies.