In this day and age where you are not suppose to eat this or that, you can find Cocoa.
If you like chocolate then cocoa is for you. The problem with cocoa is it's bitter taste, over time manufactures have added dairy products and sugar to sweeten it's taste for mass appeal. The original cocoa has many health benefits that are scientifically proven.
Cacao trees will grow in a limited geographical zone, of approximately 20 degrees to the north and south of the Equator. Nearly 70% of the world crop is grown in West Africa. There is also a plant called "coco", this is where cocaine comes from.
There are some manufacturers using the cacao, açai berries, blueberries and concord grapes which combined give you a nice “dark-chocolate” taste. Still preserving the unproceesed benefits of the cocoa plant along with a good taste. The antioxidant content or the ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) has been certified maintaing it's superior health benefits.
Long term usage of flavonol-rich cocoa has been linked to cardiovascular health benefits in it's raw form. As mentioned the cocoa loses it's health benefits during cooking and alkalizing processes. The addition of whole milk reduces the overall cocoa content per ounce while increasing saturated fat levels, negating some of cocoa's heart-healthy potential benefits.
Studies still find some short term benefits in LDL levels with the intake of dark chocolate.
Cocoa contains large amounts of antioxidants such as epicatechins and polyphenols. Cocoa powder has almost twice the antioxidants of red wine and almost three times that found in green tea. Cocoa also contains magnesium, iron, chromium, vitamin C, zinc and others.
There is also been good results in weight-loss when combining the cocoa with other proteins, minerals and nutrients. The result is a nutritious supplement that reduces hunger and aids your weight-loss goals.
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