Food

13 Benefits of ackee and side effects

Published

1 month ago

March 9, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

Nutrition facts of ackee fruit
13 Health Benefits Of Ackee Fruit
How to use ackee fruit
Side effects of ackee fruit
- Related
The ackee fruit is a member of the soapberry family. He is the close relative of Longan and Lychee.The Ackee is native to Guyana and West Africa but is now grown primarily in Jamaica, where it is considered a national fruit.
When unripe, the ackee fruit looks like a watery pink apple fruit, the seams are still closed.

The Ackee tree is a beautiful tree, which is why it is widely used as an ornamental plant in Caribbean countries.
Only in Jamaica is it used as a staple food. Ackee trees only bear fruit 2 times a year. The tree is native to West Africa and was likely brought to the Caribbean on slave ships.The outer meat is mixed with yellow and red. When ripe, the color turns bright red and the seams split open, exposing the cream-colored seeds and pulp.
Ackee fruit is considered safe to eat when ripe and the seams open naturally, but the unripe fruit is very poisonous. It weighs 100 to 200 grams.

Ackee fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. Ackee can be cooked like any other vegetable. It is often cooked in “Ackee and Saltfish,” a Jamaican dish consisting of Ackee and salted cod. When cooked with salted cod, the ackee fruit will taste the same as scrambled eggs.

Nutrition facts of ackee fruit

Ackee is a good source of fat, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Contrary to long-held popular beliefs, the fats contained in the ackee fruit are healthy.

There is no cholesterol or saturated fatty acids in the ackee fruit.

Here is the nutritional value of 100 grams of ackee pulp:

• Component Amount / 100 g% Daily Value

• Energy 151 Cal 7.55%.

• Carbohydrates 0.8 g 0.62%.

• Proteins 2.9 – 8.9 g 5.8 – 17.8%.

• Fat 15.2 g 25.33%.

• Total dietary fiber 2.7 g 10.8%.

• Zinc 1 mg 9.09%.

• Sodium 240 mg 16%.

• Potassium 270 mg 5.74%.

• Calcium 35 – 83 mg 3.5 – 8.3%.

• Iron 5 mg 27.77%.

• Phosphorus 98 mg 9.8%.

• Niacin (vit B3) 1.1 – 3.9 mg 6.8 – 19.5%.

• Thiamine (Vit B1) 0.03 mg 2.50%.

• Riboflavin (Vit B2) 0.07 mg 5.38%.

Also, the ackee fruit contains Folic Acid 40 ug Ascorbic Acid (Vit C) 30 mg 50%. Meanwhile, the Daily Value is based on the 2,000 calorie diet.

You may need more or fewer calories based on your age, gender, health, and your daily activities.

13 Health Benefits Of Ackee Fruit

The Jamaican people believe that the ackee fruit is both a blessing and a curse at the same time.

The ripe fruits are very nutritious and are used for traditional medicine and basic foods; while the immature ones, the overripe ones, together with all the outer pulp and the seeds are poisonous.

As mentioned above, the fruit is packed with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that can help many health problems.

It is packed with vitamins, nutrients, and organic components that make it a useful dietary tool for several health conditions. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of ackee.

1.- Benefits of ackee fruit for blood pressure

People who have hypertension should increase their potassium intake. The ackee fruit contains 270 mg of potassium (5.74% of the daily value), so it is good to add ackee fruit to your diet.

The high level of potassium in the blood dilates the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood through the body.

When the heart does not need extra pressure to pump blood, the blood pressure will be lower.

Chronic hypertension is known to damage blood vessels. It is also one of the risk factors for atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart attack and stroke.

2.- Source of vegetable protein

Protein is necessary for the regeneration of cells in the body and for muscles to work, especially during workouts.

A high protein diet can help the weight loss program because protein is more difficult to digest, therefore the body needs to take energy from fatty tissues to digest protein.

This process makes us feel fuller for longer. For vegetarians, this is good news, as they can add their protein intake to delicious fruit.

3.- Benefits of ackee fruit for digestion

The fiber content of the ackee fruit is abundant. These fibers help add the mass of the stool, helping us to go to the bathroom regularly, thus preventing constipation.

The fibers also induce peristaltic movement in the intestines, make food move, and prevent bloating, cramps, constipation, and other inflammations in the colon.

4.- Strengthens the bones

It contains a lot of calcium, phosphorus, and zinc which are necessary to prevent bone demineralization and bone loss. Daily intake of these essential minerals can prevent osteoporosis.

5.- Stimulates the immune system

The fruit contains vitamin C and zinc, which play an important role in our immune system. Vitamin C and zinc help our bodies fight colds and viruses.

This is the reason why South Americans and Africans use the ackee fruit to treat cold, flu, and fever.

Consuming ackee fruit during cold and flu will reduce the risk of additional complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

To treat fever in a child, he is bathed with a decoction of crushed ackee leaves in the water.

6.- Benefits of ackee fruit for anemia

The Ackee fruit is high in iron and also contains folic acid, two substances necessary to produce healthy red blood cells.

The vitamin C contained in this fruit is a great advantage because vitamin C helps absorb iron in the intestines.

That is, when we consume ackee fruit, we consume iron, folic acid, and vitamin C at the same time. Sounds like a healthy combination.

7.- Benefits of ackee fruit for heart

The ackee fruit has a good effect on hypertension, but not only that, but the ackee fruit also contains unsaturated fatty acids.

The cells of our body need unsaturated fatty acids to function well. Unsaturated fatty acids also lower the cholesterol level, thus protecting us from atherosclerosis.

As we already know, atherosclerosis can lead to various problems such as heart attacks, coronary heart disease, and strokes.

8.- Prevents muscle cramps

Muscle cramps can be caused by electrolyte imbalance and dehydration, especially after workouts or on hot days.

The sodium and potassium contained in the ackee fruit play an important role in electrolyte balance.

Also, sodium is necessary for muscle contraction, while potassium is necessary for muscle relaxation.

Consuming ackee fruit can help restore electrolyte balance, but we should also drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

9.- Benefits of ackee fruit for diabetes

The Ackee fruit is rich in complex carbohydrates, which are necessary for energy production and help normalize our blood sugar level.

The Ackee fruit is also high in fiber. Fiber helps reduce the absorption of sugar in our intestines, thus maintaining a normal blood sugar level.

10.- Treatment of skin infections

Africans use ackee leaves to treat ulcers, abscesses, and yaws. The leaves are crushed and mixed with salt, then the mixture is placed on the affected area.

To get rid of the cutaneous migratory larvae, a shower or bath is taken with a decoction of ackee leaves and bark.

11.- Treatment of Edema

The crushed leaves and bark are placed on the skin of the edematous area. This traditional medicine works best for intercostal edema.

12.- Antiparasitics

In Brazil, a small dose of aqueous extract of ackee seeds is administered to eliminate intestinal parasites.

It should be given every day for at least 3 days. To treat head lice, the outer flesh of the fruit is burned and the ash is used to wash the hair.

13.- Treatment of poisonous bites

In Africa, the crushed bark is used as an antidote against snake bites, stings, and scorpions, while the crushed leaves are placed on the bitten area to prevent abscesses.

How to use ackee fruit

The fresh pulp of fully ripe fruits can be eaten fresh or cooked. The fresh pulp has a nutty flavor, and the cooked one has the texture of scrambled eggs.

The best way to cook the pulp is to boil it in salty water or milk and then lightly fry it in butter, just like scrambled eggs.

After cooking, the pulp can also be added to curries, meat stews, and other dishes.

Even with canned pulp, precooking is essential, since we do not know of any process that has occurred with the pulps.

Side effects of ackee fruit

Ripe fruits are very poisonous. Since 1970, the US has banned all imports of most ackee products.

Now the US has recently started allowing the importation of canned ripe ackee in limited quantities.

Never force an immature ackee to split open with sharp objects, as the fruit will naturally pop open when ripe and ready to eat.

Also, pay attention to the skin color of the outer pulp; those that are fully ripe have a bright red color. Never eat the outer meat as it is very poisonous.

Symptoms of poisoning can range from vomiting, body seizures, and death.

It is probably still difficult to find fresh ackee fruits outside of the Caribbean and West African countries. So the most we can get is canned pulp.

If we travel to Jamaica, we should try to consume fresh fruits. Be careful with seeds, immature and overripe fruits, as they are very poisonous.

If we can find the right fruit, consuming ackee fruit gives many health benefits of ackee fruit in our body.

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Food

12 Benefits of coca leaf and side effects

Published

1 month ago

March 9, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

Nutrition facts of coca leaf
12 health benefits of coca leaf
Coca leaf facts
Side effects of coca leaf
Conclusion
- Related
The coca leaf has many health benefits. Coca (Erythroxylum coca and E. novogranatese) is an agricultural plant native to the western side of Latin America.It is a shrub that can grow up to 2-3 meters tall. The branches are thin with dark-colored leaves. The flowers are small, growing in clusters with short stems.
These flowers would later turn into red berry fruits. The coca tree can easily grow in any tropical area.Native Americans recognized the health benefits of coca leaves long before Columbus arrived in America.
The indigenous peoples of the Andes around the Andes Mountains (Bolivia, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru) have long recognized the health benefits of coca leaves.

Both men and women use coca leaves. The leaves can be made into tea or chewed. We can find stores that sell coca tea bags in all societies around the Andes mountains.
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Nutrition facts of coca leaf

The coca leaf is a valuable dietary supplement. Several studies analyzed the nutritional characteristics of the coca leaf.

Two notable ones include a 2009 study published in the Food and Nutrition Bulletin (Can coca leaves contribute to improving the nutritional status of the Andean population ? Penny, Zavaleta, et al.) And a Harvard study in 1975 (Nutritional value of the coca leaf, Duke, Aulick, Plowman). They found that for every 100g the leaves contained:

• Carbohydrates (44.3 g)

• Protein (19.9 g)

• Fat (3.3 g)

• Fiber (14.2 g)

• Vitamin A (10,000 – 14,000 IU)

• Vitamin B1 (0.58 – 0.68 mg)

• Vitamin B2 (1.73 mg)

• Vitamin B6 (0.58 mg)

• Vitamin C (1.4 – 53 mg)

• Vitamin D (trace amounts)

• Vitamin E (16.72 mg)

• Calcium (990.18 – 1749 mg)

• Copper (1.1 mg)

• Iron (26.8 – 45.8 mg)

• Magnesium (197 – 225 mg)

• Phosphorus (637 mg)

• Zinc (2.63 – 3.8 mg)

12 health benefits of coca leaf

The documented ancient uses of the coca leaf and those discovered by modern science cover a large area of health conditions.

They include the use of the coca leaf as an anesthetic and analgesic to relieve headaches, rheumatism, wounds, and sores, etc.

According to WebMD, people chew coca leaves to relieve hunger and fatigue and to improve physical performance.

Coca extracts are used to stimulate stomach function, cause sedation, and treat asthma, colds, and other ailments.

Coca tea is commonly used for altitude sickness in the Peruvian Andes and other parts of the world.

There have also been reports of the leaves being used as a stimulant for concentration and enhancing cognitive function.

Coca leaves are a rich source of various alkaloids, which can help or harm our health depending on how they are used.

They include the use of the coca leaf as an anesthetic and analgesic to relieve headaches, rheumatism, wounds, and sores, etc.

According to WebMD, people chew coca leaves to relieve hunger and fatigue and to improve physical performance.

Coca extracts are used to stimulate stomach function, cause sedation, and treat asthma, colds, and other ailments.

Coca tea is commonly used for altitude sickness in the Peruvian Andes and other parts of the world.

There have also been reports of the leaves being used as a stimulant for concentration and enhancing cognitive function.

Coca leaves are a rich source of various alkaloids, which can help or harm our health depending on how they are used.

They include the use of the coca leaf as an anesthetic and analgesic to relieve headaches, rheumatism, wounds, and sores, etc.

According to WebMD, people chew coca leaves to relieve hunger and fatigue and to improve physical performance.

Coca extracts are used to stimulate stomach function, cause sedation, and treat asthma, colds, and other ailments.

Coca tea is commonly used for altitude sickness in the Peruvian Andes and other parts of the world.

There have also been reports of the leaves being used as a stimulant for concentration and enhancing cognitive function.

Coca leaves are a rich source of various alkaloids, which can help or harm our health depending on how they are used.

They include the use of the coca leaf as an anesthetic and analgesic to relieve headaches, rheumatism, wounds, and sores, etc.

According to WebMD, people chew coca leaves to relieve hunger and fatigue and to improve physical performance.

Coca extracts are used to stimulate stomach function, cause sedation, and treat asthma, colds, and other ailments.

Coca tea is commonly used for altitude sickness in the Peruvian Andes and other parts of the world.

There have also been reports of the leaves being used as a stimulant for concentration and enhancing cognitive function.

Coca leaves are a rich source of various alkaloids, which can help or harm our health depending on how they are used.

Therefore, it is important to remember that many plants, including the coca leaf, are very powerful medications and therefore must be used with the help of an expert.

It is important not to mix alcohol with the use of the coca plant, or to use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

The most outstanding benefits are:

1.- As a stimulant

• Coca leaves act as a mild stimulant that can elevate mood and eliminate fatigue.

• The absorption of the coca alkaloid from its leaves is much longer than the absorption of powdered cocaine from the nose.

• After being swallowed, the coca alkaloid reaches its maximum concentration 2 to 12 hours after consumption. This makes the coca leaves non-addictive.

• The indigenous people drink coca leaf tea (mate de coca) every day because they believe that coca leaves provide them with many health benefits.

2.- Treatment of narcotic addiction

• Although coca leaves also contain cocaine, cocaine is mild and not as strong as that used by people addicted to cocaine.

• It also reduces the incidence of cocaine withdrawal syndromes, as alkaloids replace cocaine in the brain.

• Due to the alkaloid contents and non-addictive properties, it is suggested to use coca leaves in narcotic rehabilitation therapy.

3.- Benefits of coca leaf for anemia

• Mountain sickness is often caused by a lack of oxygen in the blood, which often results in shortness of breath, headache, and even death.

• Healthy red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body.

• One of the health benefits of the coca leaf is rich in iron, which is essential for the production of healthy red blood cells.

4.- Natural anesthetics and analgesics

• The indigenous people use coca leaves as anesthetics and analgesics, to eliminate headaches, rheumatism, wounds, etc.

• It is also used to eliminate pain during labor and bone therapy fractures.

• Before modern anesthetic drugs were found, coca leaves were used as an anesthetic in the trepanation operation (making a hole in the skull, a tradition of the indigenous people in the Andes).

5.- Benefits of coca leaf for bone

• The daily intake of foods high in calcium is necessary for healthy bones and teeth and prevents us from having osteoporosis.

• The indigenous people recognize that coca leaves have health benefits by healing broken bones, probably due to the high calcium content and the anesthetic effect.

• Some factories in the Andes region use extracts as ingredients in toothpaste, due to their high calcium content.

6.- Stops the bleeding

• Coca leaves have astringent and vasoconstrictive properties.

• Indigenous people often use mashed coca leaves to stop bleeding from wounds.

• The crushed coca leaves and seeds can be used to stop nosebleeds.

• Women who have just given birth drink coca leaf tea, to reduce pain, prevent uterine bleeding, and as a general tonic.

7.- Treatment of abscesses

• Coca leaves have health benefits by curing boils and abscesses.

• The indigenous people place the crushed leaves on the affected area and cover it with bandages to prevent it from falling off.

• To speed up the healing process and eliminate pain, they drink coca tea or chew the leaves as well.

8.- Benefits of coca leaf for malaria

• One of the health benefits of the coca leaf that has been known to indigenous peoples is to cure malaria.

• The astringent and analgesic properties reduce fever, as well as other mineral and vitamin compounds that help kill Plasmodium in the body and accelerate the healing process.

9.- As an aphrodisiac

• Until now, people around the Andes Mountains believe that consuming coca tea every day can cure low libido, due to the high content of minerals and vitamins necessary for the reproductive system to function normally.

• In ancient times, couples who could not conceive any child were given a decoction of coca leaves, to improve sexual performance and to be able to conceive early.

• The stimulating effect also helps a lot, it reduces stress, the main problem that causes low libido these days.

10.- Benefits of coca leaf for sleep

• Coca leaves have health benefits by promoting good sleep.

• Like any other narcotic, the coca leaf has a calming effect.

• Minerals and vitamin B help relax muscles.

• However, overuse of coca leaves can make people sleepy and lazy.

11.- As a General Tonic

• People in the Andes mountains often consume coca tea.

• They believe that drinking coca tea can restore the functions of the body and increase your spirit and energy.

• It makes sense since coca leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals, which contribute to their health benefits.

• Coca leaves are sold in tea bags in almost every convenience store in the Andes mountains.

• In tourist areas, coca tea is served alongside other traditional dishes for tourists.

• Tourists receive information on the health benefits of coca leaves (which they consume as tea) from their tour guides.

Other uses of coca leaf

12.- Offerings in traditional rituals

• Although most people in the Andes now adopt Catholicism, they still practice traditional rituals.

• The coca leaf has been an important part of the traditional religions of indigenous peoples in the Andes (Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, northern Argentina, and Chile) since pre-Inca times.

• Coca leaves are used as offerings to Apus (mountain), Inti (sun), and Pachamama (land).

• Coca leaves and tea are often used in religious rituals, just like tea in Chinese or Japanese cultures.

• In addition to religious rituals, indigenous people also believe in superstitions about coca leaves.

• Miners in the city of Cerro de Pasco in Peru believe that coca leaves can soften the layers of the mine if the coca leaves are chewed and dumped on the ground.

• Likewise, coca leaves are used in shamanic practices in each region where the indigenous people plant them. For example, the Tayronas tribe in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia, is used to chew coca leaves before taking parts in medicines and religious rituals.

Coca leaf facts

Coca has been widely planted for 3,000 years. There is archaeological evidence that the indigenous people had already chewed coca leaves with lemon for 8,000 years. The widespread chewing of coca leaves had its peak in the 6th century of the Moche civilization.

This tradition was still practiced in the Inca civilization, some centuries after Moche, which was represented in a mummy found with coca leaves, pottery with coca chewers, and a metal spatula that represented a bag full of coca leaves that were used to extract alkaloids.

At first, coca leaves were only used on the eastern side of the Andes, the center of the Inca civilization.

The Incas believed that coca plants were God’s plants, therefore, the crops were monopolized by the Emperors, and only the nobles and the bourgeois could use coca.

This happened in the time of the Topa Inca (1471-1493). After the Inca Empire began to decline, coca leaves could be used by common people.

In 2006, the governments of some Latin American countries such as Venezuela, Peru, and Bolivia won the petition to preserve the traditional use of coca and the modern uses of its extracts in household products, such as tea and toothpaste.

However, coca leaves are restricted to adults only in other countries. In Colombia, children are prohibited from consuming coca tea or leaves, as it can cause them to sleep during school hours.

During the Dutch colonization in Indonesia, the Dutch cultivated coca plants, especially on the island of Java, as secondary plants in coffee/tea plantations.

Plants could adapt well in Indonesia, as Indonesia is a tropical country. Coca leaves grown in Java are said to contain higher alkaloids than those grown in Latin America.

However, after Indonesian independence, coca leaves are illegal, therefore it is no longer commercially cultivated in Indonesia.

However, the plants can sometimes be found growing naturally in forests.

Although coca leaves have so many health benefits, we must take precautions of the law in each country on the use.

If we travel to Latin America, especially if we are over 18 years old, we can try to consume coca tea, to experience the health benefits of coca leaves.

Side effects of coca leaf

Cocaine present in coca leaf is unsafe.

Cocaine is illegal and can result in hyperactivity, restlessness, excitement, migraine headaches, seizures, strokes, heart attacks, aneurysms, high blood pressure, and liver and kidney failure. As little as 1/4 of a teaspoon of cocaine can be deadly. Cocaine is highly addictive.

Conclusion

We can incorporate these wonderful benefits of the coca leaf most often in the form of tea, however chewing the leaves is also a common practice.

When chewed, they produce a warm sensation in the mouth and a pleasant, spicy taste.

In, its natural form, coca does not produce toxicity or dependence. As mentioned above, the coca leaf is native to certain parts of South America, such as Peru, so the best way to take advantage of its unique benefits is to consume it with caution and responsibility.

Food

10 Benefits of beets and side effects

Published

1 month ago

March 9, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

1. A concentrate of vitamins
2. A regenerating
3. Benefits of beets for high blood pressure
4. A detoxifier
5. Benefits of beets for cancer
6. Benefits of beets for cholesterol
7. An anti-stress
8. Benefits of beets for weight loss
9. An immune system stimulant
10. An aphrodisiac
Side effects of beets
Beetroots are part of the menu on your plate. With its pretty red colour that stains hands and clothes, it puts touches of cheerfulness in your vitamin salads that you can garnish with nuts!
If you have difficulty eating it raw, know that beetroot comes in many tasty and enticing recipes such as souffles, smoothies, muffins … So many gourmet preparations to vary your meals while consuming vegetables.
Because if eating beetroot tastes good, it is also a way to maintain its shape. Beets have incredible and unsuspected health potential.
Note that there are three varieties of beets (yellow, white and red, the most frequently consumed).

So to face winter and its procession of viruses, bet on beetroot! Anti-stress, feeling of well-being, the better quality of life, we reveal the 10 health benefits of beets.

1. A concentrate of vitamins

It is full of benefits with its concentrate of iron and folic acid, excellent for pregnant women and those who follow special diets namely vegans and vegetarians.

Folic acid is essential for the proper development of the fetus! During your pregnancy, do not hesitate to treat yourself to a little beetroot cure so that the baby grows well.

In short, beets revitalize you and have excellent nutritional value. Also, with its beta-carotene content, it ensures a healthy glow, even in the middle of winter…

2. A regenerating

One of the non-negligible virtues of beets lies in its ability to cleanse the blood. Its red colour makes it the ally of blood cells, thanks to the iron it contains and which allows blood regeneration.

It, therefore, promotes the supply of oxygen in your body. As a result, it improves your blood circulation by dissolving non-organic calcium deposits!

Say goodbye to heart problems and varicose veins that appear on your legs, which are often unsightly. So stock up on beets during your next runs.

3. Benefits of beets for high blood pressure

Thanks to its content of nitrates which are transformed under the chemical action of the organism into nitric oxide, beets have the virtue of lowering blood pressure.

Exit the worries of hypertension. According to a scientific study, patients who consumed 120ml of beet juice observed a drop in their blood pressure of 10 points in less than 4 hours.

So to stay in shape and keep your body functioning, we put beets on the menu, in salads for example!

4. A detoxifier

But that’s not his only interest in your body. It detoxifies due to its betacyanin content which allows the elimination of dangerous toxins from the body.

In short, the beet protects you and preserves your liver, purifying it and preventing it from overloading. If you’re struggling with digestion, consider beets. This is ideal for recovering from some excess!

5. Benefits of beets for cancer

An excellent detox ally, beets help you maintain your shape daily. It helps prevent the development of cancer cells. Hence the interest of incorporating it regularly into your menus.

This tuber essentially prevents colon cancer. Do not hesitate to cook it with other vegetables as part of a healthy and varied diet that will help you keep your figure and health.

It was in 1950 that the Hungarian doctor Dr Alexander Ferenczi used beet juice to treat cancer. You can therefore regularly consume a little beet juice in the morning for breakfast.

6. Benefits of beets for cholesterol

Like an onion, beets play a role in controlling your cholesterol. Above all, it helps to maintain a balance, especially if you tend to consume ready-made meals high in salt and saturated fat.

In the evening, on the menu, prepare a small beet salad with vinaigrette and Provence herbs.

Beetroot has the therapeutic property of reducing the level of bad cholesterol, responsible for cardiovascular disorders, and of increasing that of good cholesterol, essential for the protection and maintenance of your arteries!

7. An anti-stress

Do you feel energized? Stressed)? Anxious! Daily life does not spare you! What if a few ingredients were enough to find a little serenity!

Indeed, beetroot is good for anxious people, thanks to its high concentration of antioxidants. So, no longer focus on chocolate, but on beets.

This tuber has the advantage of protecting you from diseases and giving you a feeling of well-being! Good in your head and your body with beetroot! And besides, you have fishing, because it boosts you! Beetroot, stronger than Curonian, an excellent anti-stress shield!

8. Benefits of beets for weight loss

If you have poorly localized curves and the slimming capsules are of no effect to you, why not try the culinary experience of beets?

Quite simply because the latter will help you lose pounds, because of its fibre and nutrient content that will give you a feeling of satiety and prevent you from unwanted snacking on chocolate bars.

By consuming beets, the fibre will swell in your stomach and you will be full!

9. An immune system stimulant

If you’re prone to disease, and your immune system is struggling to fight bacteria, stock up on beets. Indeed, these have the benefit of stimulating and strengthening your immune system.

In short, it helps you fight colds, flu, and other illnesses and saves you from taking antibiotics. Also, it relieves headaches and can act in the context of certain skin problems.

10. An aphrodisiac

This is one of the lesser-known virtues of beets! And yet, it would be wrong to deny it! Yes, it has aphrodisiac benefits.

Already in Antiquity, the Romans used it for this purpose! Because it improves vigour and sexual performance.

No need to invest in oysters or ginger. Called “natural viagra”, it boosts sexual activity by releasing nitric oxide which promotes blood circulation in the penis.

Its boron content, a kind of chemical compound, causes an increase in libido and fertility. Then you will know what to cook for a romantic dinner!

Side effects of beets

Beet juice is a repository of nutrients, encompassing minerals, antioxidants, vitamins, phytonutrients, polyphenols and other dietary fiber.

But these nutrients can give allergies to some people. Some common allergic reactions to beetroot are skin rash, hives, itching, chills and fever.

We hope that the article “10 shocking health benefits of beets” was of great help to you.

Food

20 Benefits of cocoa powder

Published

1 month ago

March 9, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

20 health benefits of cocoa powder
4 ways to use cocoa every day
The benefits of cocoa powder are amazing: it can improve your memory, increase your happiness, reduce heart disease, lose fat, boost immunity, and create loads of energy.
For the Incas, it was the drink of the gods, an association that gave rise to the scientific name of cacao, Theobroma cacao, from the Greek words theo (god) and broma (drink).

Raw cocoa contains almost four times the antioxidant content of regular processed dark chocolate, 20 times more than blueberries, and 119 times more than bananas.

In addition, raw cocoa (naturally fermented) and processed chocolate that is sold in bars and pieces are two completely separate foods. Chocolate is made with roasted cocoa, sugar, milk, and other ingredients that make it a solid food.

Studies have found that adding dairy products blocks the absorption of antioxidants in chocolate. While processed chocolate is delicious, the benefits of cocoa are found only in the raw form.

Most of the natural cocoa available today has undergone a fermentation process (not roasted) that removes the bitterness.

Both raw cocoa beans and beans undergo the fermentation process to preserve antioxidants. If you are eating cocoa for the first time, we recommend using naturally fermented raw cocoa beans.
This intensifies the berry and coffee notes naturally found in the chocolate flavor. The intense flavor is similar to unsweetened dark cocoa powder or baker’s chocolate.

If you prefer milk chocolate then you can add raw cocoa to smoothies or mix it with other foods. Here are 20 surprising health benefits of cocoa powder.

20 health benefits of cocoa powder

1.- It makes you feel happy:

Cocoa is one of the healthiest foods that can be consumed. Cocoa contains anandamide, known as the happiness molecule, which creates a feeling of euphoria.

2.- As an aphrodisiac:

Another mood-enhancing compound found in cocoa is PEA (phenylethylamine) or phenethylamine, which triggers the release of endorphins and pleasant neurochemicals like opium.

These are usually released naturally when we fall in love and during sexual activity. (The only other food on earth that contains PEA is blue-green algae.) Plus, these chemicals boost libido, which is probably why chocolate is so popular on Valentine’s Day or as a token of love.

3- Hormonal balance mood changes:

Another benefit of cocoa is that it can increase the brain levels of serotonin, the brain chemical that makes you feel good.

When women experience PMS (premenstrual syndrome), serotonin levels drop dramatically.
These benefits are proven to increase brain levels of calming hormones and restore feelings of well-being.

4.- Benefits of cocoa powder for heart

Flavanols, an anti-inflammatory and heart-protective antioxidant found in raw cocoa can reduce the risk of stroke, protect against cardiovascular disease, and help improve blood circulation.

Cocoa contains more than 700 compounds, and the complex antioxidants found in it, known as polyphenols, help reduce “bad cholesterol” and prevent the hardening of the arteries. It’s mind-boggling to think that no heart drug on the market can come close to the protective benefits of cocoa powder.

5.- It can prevent blood clots

The Department of Nutrition at the University of California, Davis, found that cocoa thins the blood and can prevent blood clots.

This finding shows that eating raw cocoa can be just as beneficial as taking an aspirin a day.

6.- Cocoa can prevent premature aging

One of the benefits of cocoa is that the polyphenol antioxidants found in it belong to the same group of antioxidants like green tea and red wine.

The anthocyanins found in dark-colored fruits and the catechins in green tea protect our cells from premature oxidation or destruction and can make us feel younger for longer.

7.- Benefits of cocoa powder for weight loss

Drinking a cup of hot cocoa before meals can help you lose fat. This is due to cocoa’s MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors, which decrease appetite.

MAO inhibitors are often found in weight loss products. However, the unique MAOs in cocoa allow more serotonin to circulate in the brain. Do not consume more than 40 grams or four teaspoons of cocoa a day.

If you find the cocoa flavor too strong, add coconut milk, rice, or nut milk. Avoid dairy as it will prevent the absorption of antioxidants.

By gently heating and making your own delicious hot cocoa drink, you will release more antioxidants and increase appetite suppressant properties.

So it is recommended to add a teaspoon of cocoa powder in a coffee cup of hot water or milk and drink 10-15 minutes before your next meal.

8.- It fills you with energy

It creates loads of energy and helps you fight fatigue, thanks to the highest concentrations of magnesium found in this natural food source.

Magnesium also helps protect against osteoporosis, reduces type II diabetes, and lowers blood pressure.

Raw cocoa powder (2 tbsp) contains 52 mg or 14% of the daily value Raw cocoa beans or beans per 100 grams contains 272 mg or 65% of the daily value.
9.- Great source of sulfur

Help you get shiny hair, strong nails, and take care of your liver and pancreas with this great source of sulfur.

10.- Benefits of cocoa powder for blood pressure

Lower blood pressure naturally, in a study of 470 men from the Zutphen Elderly study, it was shown that the benefits of cocoa reduce blood pressure in patients who took a small amount each night.

11.-Reduces insulin resistance

The antioxidant properties of cocoa were also found to reduce insulin resistance and sensitivity in people with impaired glucose tolerance and smokers.

12.- Stimulates intestinal function

Another benefit of cocoa is that it can help improve the kidney and stimulate intestinal function.

13.- Improve your metabolism

Reset your metabolism and restore your internal balance with cocoa. Not getting enough antioxidants in your diet can have dangerous long-term health consequences.

A Swiss study in 2009 found that in less than two weeks cocoa reduced the stress hormone cortisol, improved metabolism, and even improved the microbial activity of the gut.

14.- Benefits of cocoa powder for sunburn

A recent study by London scientists found that participants who ate 20 grams of cocoa for 12 weeks were able to stay in the sun for twice as long as those who did not, without burning themselves.
15.- Benefits of cocoa powder for skin

In 2006 the Journal of Nutrition found that women who drank cocoa with at least 326 mg of flavonols a day had better skin texture, improved microcirculation, increased oxygen saturation, and improved skin hydration. Mix some cocoa powder in your cup of coffee or add to a smoothie.

16.- Prevention of skin cancer

German scientists found that cocoa can protect against harmful UV rays that cause cancer.

17.- Benefits of cocoa powder for tooth decay

Recent studies from Tulane University found that among the benefits of cocoa especially in an extract of the powder it was even more effective than fluoride in preventing cavities. This caffeine-like crystalline extract helps to harden tooth enamel.

18.- Improves cognitive function and prevents Alzheimer’s disease

A Harvard study by Dr. Gary Small showed that middle-aged people who drank two cups a day had improved memory and increased blood flow to the brain.

19.- Improves digestion

Improves digestion thanks to the fiber found in raw cocoa, which stimulates the body’s digestive enzymes.

20.- Contains healthy fats

Your body needs fat contrary to what some health practitioners claim. Fats are the helpers that create chemical reactions for growth, immune and metabolic function.

The healthy fats found in raw cocoa are similar to the monounsaturated fat found in olive oil.

4 ways to use cocoa every day

1) The ultimate moisturizer

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unrefined cocoa butter

• 1 cup coconut oil

Preparation:

• Combine and melt all ingredients in a double boiler (gently!).

• Place in a bowl and wait until it is cold, place in the freezer for 20 to 40 minutes. The mixture should be firm. Do not allow it to become completely solid.

• Beat the semi-solid mixture for 3-5 minutes until white peaks form. It will look like a thicker whipped cream.

• Collect in jars and cover.

• Chill for an hour in the fridge.

Note: if you live in a warmer climate you may want to store your mix in the refrigerator so it doesn’t melt. If it does then just beat it again.

2) Cocoa «Oatmeal» A gluten-free and low-carbohydrate breakfast

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup coconut flour

• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

• 3 teaspoons stevia or sweetener of choice

• 1 cup of water

preparation:

• Mix the coconut flour, cocoa powder, and stevia in a microwave-safe container

• Add the water and stir. Microwave for 2 minutes, stir well, 1 tablespoon of water may need to be added if using a different brand. Put it back in the microwave for another minute.

• Let cool for a couple of minutes and enjoy.

3) Cocoa energy

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons raw cocoa nibs

• 1 peeled banana

• 1 tablespoon goji berries

• ½ cup frozen or raw raspberries

• 1 cup of coconut milk or nut milk

• Handful of ice

preparation:

Add all the ingredients to the blender for one minute.

4) Cocoa and Coffee

Ingredients:

• 2 cups coconut or cashew milk

• 1 teaspoon of natural vanilla extract

• 3 ½ teaspoon raw cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon ground coffee (optional)

Preparation:

• Add all the ingredients to the blender for one minute.

• Transfer to the pot and heat gently

• Pour into cups and enjoy

Other recommendations that will allow you to enjoy the incredible health benefits of cocoa

Feel free to sprinkle cocoa nibs on salad, in your baked goods, or add to foods in place of nuts.

Enjoy the health properties of cocoa whenever you want.

Use natural raw cocoa to get the maximum benefit from chocolate as a superfood.