Food

20 Benefits of cocoa powder

Published

11 months 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.

Related Topics:advantages Benefits of cocoa cocoa powder benefits side effects uses virtues

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Food

6 Benefits of sweet orange essential oil

Published

3 months ago

October 20, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

6 Benefits of sweet orange essential oil
How to make orange essential oil
- How we can prepare our essential orange oil.
Recommendations.
Discover the 6 Benefits of Orange Essential Oil + Recipe.Health Benefits of orange essential oil: The orange is a fruit known for its nutritional contributions, especially for being one of the most popular sources of vitamin C that exist, however, you really know the benefits of orange essential oil, it is used a lot in the world of aromatherapy because it is considered an antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and diuretic.One of the properties of orange essential oil is to be a powerful antidepressant and relaxant, which is used a lot in the world of aromatherapy, we will not only talk to you about its wonderful properties, but we will also teach you how to make your oil at home without so much trouble, so what remains is to invite you to continue reading this interesting article.
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6 Benefits of sweet orange essential oil

As we mentioned earlier, the orange essential oil is excellent for treating emotional states, which is why it is widely used in the world of holistic medicine, especially aromatherapy, and its benefits can improve not only your emotional state. but also the physical.

1.- Antidepressant.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: One of the benefits of orange essential oil is that it is considered an antidepressant and relaxant par excellence, it is used to help calm stress, promote relaxation of the body and mind.

The essential oil of orange leaves a very pleasant sensation in those patients who suffer from anxiety or depressive pictures, which helps them to heal and feel better about themselves and their environment.

2.- Antiseptic and anti-inflammatory.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: We can highlight its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, with this we can fight and prevent infections, thanks to the fact that it prevents the proliferation of fungi and bacteria, which ends up favoring the disinfection of wounds.

On the other hand, this oil is ideal to help eliminate pain or discomfort typical of external or internal inflammations, not to mention its powerful properties to prevent viral symptoms such as flu or cold, in the same way, it is highly recommended to relieve stomach ailments and strengthen our system immune.

3.- Antispasmodic.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: Another benefit of using orange essential oil for massage application is that it is antispasmodic par excellence, with just a few drops on the skin, it can help us overcome muscle spasms and relax the area, not to mention that it helps prevent future cramps.

4.- Stimulates the lymphatic system.

This rich and aromatic oil can be used in immersion baths, since it has diuretic properties, which favors the stimulation of the lymphatic system, helping us to eliminate accumulated toxins, and combat fluid retention, deflating the legs and getting rid of that sensation. of heaviness and rigidity that we can feel at the end of the day.

5.- Benefits of sweet orange essential oil sexually

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: One of the lesser-known properties of orange essential oil is that of being an exceptional aphrodisiac, although it is not very high if it gives short-term results, it has been used in cases of impotence, erection problems, frigidity or decrease libido and sex drive, so if you want to spice up your sex life, feel free to use this powerful oil.

6.- Benefits of sweet orange essential oil skin

For our skin, one of the benefits of orange essential oil is that it prevents premature aging since it helps to stimulate the production of collagen in our skin, you can benefit by adding a few drops of this oil to your cream, and you will notice shortly time as your skin looks younger, fresh and fresh.

How to make orange essential oil

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: We have already talked about the benefits of orange essential oil, but now is the time that you learn how to make yours at home and that you can enjoy its therapeutic properties whenever you want, not to mention its uses in cosmetics and physical health.

• Oranges

• Vodka.

• Jar with lid.

How we can prepare our essential orange oil.

Its preparation is very simple, and you do not require prior knowledge or artifacts in your kitchen, you must have all the ingredients at hand and follow the instructions to the letter, in this way you can obtain essential oil of orange from good quality and very inexpensive, so let’s get started.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: As a primary step to make the essential oil of oranges, you must peel the fruit, there must be no whitish traces of the orange peel, you can help yourself by scraping them to remove them completely, in the same way, consider that the greater amount of orange peels, the higher the concentration of the essential oil.

Now take a glass container that has an airtight lid, it must be clean and dry, there the orange peels are added and the vodka is added until the peels are completely covered, it closes very well and shakes very hard for a couple of seconds.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: Once this step is done, this mixture is placed in a dark and cool place for at least a week, you must shake the bottle during this period, to obtain the highest possible content of orange essential oil.

As the week passes, the mixture is strained with the help of a coffee filter, this is done so that the impurities that come off do not pass, it is poured into a jar and the orange peels are removed, this container is placed in a place with good ventilation, for the alcohol to evaporate.

As the days go by, you will notice that the remaining liquid no longer smells of alcohol, you can already say that you have your orange essential oil, ready to be packaged and used, it is recommended that it be preserved in a dark jar with a lid in a place fresh, that way it will retain its benefits.

Recommendations.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: As you will see, making an essential oil of orange is very simple to do, although it takes some time, once you manage to obtain it, you will have so many benefits that you will not regret doing it.

Although it has many benefits, it can also have certain side effects, so that people who suffer from diabetes mellitus, those who are under medical treatments that contain cyclosporine, people who suffer from chronic hypertension, and prostatic hypertrophy, should not consume this oil. nor use it externally.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: Among the most common side effects, we can find alterations in the heart rate or blood pressure, so its use is not recommended when taking stimulants such as coffee, in the cases of pregnant women and children, the dose cannot be exceeded recommended, it is best to consult with the treating physician before taking or using it.

Knowing the benefits of nature and technology can help us improve our health and the way we see life. If you want to know more about our topics, we invite you to continue reading our interesting posts and to follow us on our social networks.

Food

6 Benefits of huaya fruit

Published

9 months ago

April 29, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

What is huaya?
Benefits of Huaya fruit
Discover the 6 benefits of huaya fruit.
We explain how you can use this tropical fruit for your benefit.

Huaya is a peculiar fruit, native to the tropical zone near the Orinoco River, found in Colombia and Venezuela.

Its tree can reach a height of about 20 meters and, as it grows relatively easily in tropical and subtropical climates, it has spread throughout the rest of Central America and some Caribbean islands.

Perhaps you do not know it by this name, since it is known in different ways depending on the region in which we are. Some popular examples are “mamoncillo” or quenepa, in the US it is known as “Spanish lime”, despite not being a lime, nor from Spain. Its scientific name is Melicoccus Bijugatus.

What is huaya?

This plant from the Sapindaceae family, to which lychees also belong, has traditionally been used as a natural remedy by local populations that had access to it.

Not only do their fruits have health benefits, but the seeds, leaves, and bark of these trees are also used to obtain medicines for different minor ailments.

The fruit of the huaya is similar to the lychee in terms of shape. It also has a fine rough shell, in this case, green.

It contains a sweet and orange or yellowish pulp, which is very acidic if it has not yet matured well. This pulp is tightly bound to a large seed in the center of the fruit, so it is usually consumed by slurping the flesh of the fruit until the seed is exposed.

The amount of pulp is relatively small in each fruit, but it can also be boiled to separate it from the seeds and make drinks or jams that taste sweet but not cloying. You can even eat the seed if it is roasted and crushed to mix it with honey.

Also, recently this fruit has drawn the attention of the scientific world.

Due to its low economic value, it had gone unnoticed by the majority of the world’s population, but recent years have brought an increase in its consumption accompanied by research on its nutritional benefits and possible medicinal uses.

In this article, we will talk about some of the benefits of consuming huaya, both its value as an edible fruit and some of its therapeutic uses, as described by the local populations that consume them regularly.

Benefits of Huaya fruit

On a nutritional level, huaya surprises us with some unusual nutrients for fruits. The components that this fruit presents make it provide us with certain health benefits for the simple fact of consuming it, but it also has medicinal uses separate from its consumption for food.

1. Benefits of huaya for weight loss

In a serving of about 100 grams of huaya pulp, we will find only 58 calories. Its low amount of carbohydrates and zero fat make it a perfect fruit to add to our diet when we look for sweet, tasty alternatives that do not contain a high amount of sugar.

In addition, the difficulty of its consumption (you have to entertain yourself for a while with each fruit) produces a satiating effect, which calms our hunger more than other foods that are much easier to consume.

2. Good supply of vitamins A and C

Huaya contains a high amount of vitamin A and vitamin C. Both have antioxidant properties, which help us reduce inflammatory processes and even reduce our risk of suffering from diseases influenced by inflammation, such as some types of cancer.

Vitamin A is essential for our eye health, in addition to improving the health of our skin and mucous membranes. Vitamin C helps us better assimilate nutrients such as iron or calcium, necessary for our bone health and to avoid anemic processes. In addition, good levels of vitamin C translate into a better function of the immune system. We do not lack reasons to consume this fruit!

3. Source of iron, phosphorus, and calcium

The levels of phosphorus and calcium in this fruit are high, which helps enormously to maintain good general health, especially concerning the nervous system and our bones and teeth.

In addition, it has the advantage of containing iron well above the levels of other fruits, which helps us fight against anemia and low blood pressure. In addition to its high levels of vitamin C, this fruit provides us with a large number of essential nutrients while facilitating their absorption and use.

4. Benefits of huaya for sleep

The essential amino acid tryptophan is used by our body to generate neurotransmitters such as serotonin. The consumption of tryptophan is related to an improvement in depressive symptoms and a stabilization of emotional changes, especially those related to hormonal peaks, such as those that occur in pregnancy or during menstrual cycles.

In addition, it has been seen that tryptophan notably improves the quality of sleep, helping us to fall asleep more easily and our rest to be more restful. Luckily, huaya is loaded with a huge amount of tryptophan, so its regular consumption can provide us with all the benefits associated with this very useful amino acid.

5. Rich in antioxidants

In addition to its high content of vitamins A and C, which have antioxidant properties in themselves, huaya also contains several phenolic compounds with powerful antioxidant action.

Good levels of antioxidants in the diet can regulate inflammatory processes in the body while protecting us from the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

The benefits of antioxidants are somewhat controversial, but it is believed that they play an important role in reducing cell aging and that they could serve to prevent the appearance of cancer cells, whose genesis is related to oxidative stress in our body. In addition, antioxidants decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

6. Benefits of huaya for digestion

On a medicinal level, huaya is mainly used to regulate digestion. Its roasted seeds can be consumed and mixed with honey to stop diarrhea, an effect that drinks made from the bark of this tree also have.

In addition, its leaves are prepared as an infusion or suppository (depending on the region) to help remedy chronic constipation.

More research is required about the medicinal properties of huaya, but the populations that live with this fruit have used these methods for many generations throughout a wide territory, which gives some credibility to the effectiveness of these remedies.

Food

4 Benefits of mizuna and side effects

Published

9 months ago

April 29, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

Nutrtion data of mizuna
Health benefits of mizuna
Possible risk
Mizuna recipe
- Ingredients
Step by Step procedure
- Related
Discover the 4 shocking health benefits of mizuna and side effects.Surely on more than one occasion, you have consumed mizuna without knowing exactly what you were doing. We are going to tell you what its properties are.
Mizuna is an organic vegetable that can be used to make different vegetable dishes, such as salads.

It is characterized by its contribution of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances, as well as its concentration in vitamins. For this reason, it is advisable to include it in the diet.

It is one of the most common vegetables in most of the prepared salads that are marketed at an industrial level. However, very few people identify this edible.

Nutrtion data of mizuna

The first thing to do is define the specific appearance of the mizuna. It is a three-leaf vegetable that is marketed in green shoots. It is usually offered packaged, which guarantees its freshness.

From the nutritional point of view, it is necessary to highlight the content of vitamin C and vitamin A.

In addition, it has micronutrients of group B and some minerals in lower proportions. Now, what stands out is antioxidants.

This type of vegetable concentrates a large number of phytonutrients inside.

These elements are capable of neutralizing the formation of free radicals, thus helping to maintain homeostasis.

On the other hand, they are also important to modulate inflammatory states.

Finally, the contribution of fiber that mizuna provides cannot be ignored. This substance is essential to achieve good intestinal health.

Mizuna is included in many commercial salad dressings that are already sold clean.

Health benefits of mizuna

Now we are going to comment on the main health benefits obtained from the introduction of mizuna in the usual diet. This, as long as the eating plan is varied and balanced.

1. Benefits of mizuna for immunity

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient to ensure the proper functioning of the immune system.

Maintaining its levels in the appropriate range contributes to reducing the incidence of many infectious diseases, such as respiratory diseases.

This is evidenced by research published in Frontiers in Immunology.

2. Benefits of mizuna for skin

The vitamin A content of mizuna is key to preventing problems related to skin health, according to a study published in Nutrition in Clinical Practice.

Not only does it accelerate wound healing, but it also prepares the tissue for exposure to sunlight. In this way, the damage associated with ultraviolet radiation is minimized.

3. Benefits of mizuna for aging

Nutrients with antioxidant capacity are determining elements in the prevention of aging.

The neutralization of free radicals prevents their accumulation in the tissues, which generates protection against the development of pathologies and inefficiencies at the physiological level.

According to a review published in the journal Current Aging Science, the regular inclusion of a generous amount of compounds with antioxidant activity in the diet is considered one of the most efficient routes to slow aging.

4. Benefits of mizuna for digestion

Fiber is a compound that helps improve intestinal health. It is a non-digestible element that increases the volume of the fecal bolus, thus stimulating transit and serving as an energy substrate for the bacteria that make up the microbiota.

Possible risk

The only risk derived from consuming mizuna has to do with eating the vegetable without washing it properly beforehand. To get rid of the remains of dirt or earth, it is enough to clean it with fresh water under the tap.

However, when it is marketed in supermarkets, it is usually done under a packaging method, so the previous cleaning processes have already been applied.

Mizuna recipe

The best way to include mizuna in the diet is salads, accompanied by other vegetables that also provide quality nutrients.

It is possible to prepare green juices as well, but in this way, the fibers are mechanically destroyed.

Ingredients

1 tomato.

1 onion.

1/2 lettuce.

Sprouts of mizuna.

Sunflower seeds to taste.

A tub of fresh cheese.

Extra virgin olive oil and salt.

Sunflower seeds not only add texture to a salad, but they also contribute nutrients.

Step by Step procedure

To prepare the mizuna salad you need to start by washing all the vegetables well under the tap.

Both mizuna and lettuce should be cut by hand into relatively small pieces. The tomato and onion are diced with a knife.

All these elements are introduced into a bowl, sprinkling a couple of tablespoons of sunflower seeds.

On top, some slices of fresh cheese are placed and it is finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and salt to taste. It is also possible to add other complementary spices, such as oregano.

Mizuna: a healthy vegetable

Mizuna has beneficial health properties, especially when it is included in the context of a balanced and varied diet.

It supposes a contribution of high-quality antioxidants and vitamins, key elements for the prevention of many chronic and complex diseases.

In addition, it is a vegetable to which almost everyone has access. It is usually sold packaged in bags, which guarantees its freshness and durability. It is inexpensive and versatile on a culinary level.