what are the health benefits of cocoa beans

Which is cocoa offers the greatest health benefits?

Health Benefits of Cocoa Powder

1. Cocoa Powder Is a Rich Source of Polyphenols. Cocoa powder is a rich source of polyphenols, and it contains more of these compounds than almost any other food.
2. High in Fiber. If we look at the carbohydrate content of cocoa powder, it is surprising how high in carbs it is. ...
3. Significant Source of Dietary Magnesium. ...
4. Increases HDL “Good Cholesterol” Levels. ...

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What are the uses of cocoa beans?

• It is used for making chocolates.
• Cocoa butter and cocoa powder is used as an ingredient in chocolate industry.
• The powder form is used in fudge, cookies, muffins, cake and ice creams.

Are beans good or bad for your health?

• Digestive enzymes. Look for a digestive supplement formulated specifically for beans, or one that contains alpha-galactosidase, an enzyme that helps break down the complex sugars in beans.
• Fiber. Beans are extremely high in both soluble and insoluble fiber. ...
• B-complex vitamins. ...
• Mineral complex. ...
• Protein. ...

Do cocoa beans go bad?

Yes, it can go bad. However, the damage could be minimized if the moisture content could be reduced to the barest say 7.5% max. With low moisture content you can store cocoa beans for a longer period of time. Exporters knows this well. Moisture content can be reduced by exposing the cocoa beans unto direct sunlight for long periods.

How many cocoa beans should I eat daily?

8WHOLE BEANS Ideally eat a minimum of 8 whole roasted peeled beans every day. After roasting they will be soft and warm, but as they cool down the cacao butter within the bean will harden and the bean itself will become crunchy.

Is it healthy to drink cocoa everyday?

Good for cardiovascular German scientists conclude that drinking cocoa daily reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke by 37%, as well as reduces the risk of death after stroke, allowing better blood circulation due to the presence of flavanoid substance.

Is cocoa beans a Superfood?

It's easy to lose yourself in chocolate. The superfood of all superfoods, cacao—the dried seeds at the root of chocolate—is also one of the highest sources of magnesium in nature, full of antioxidants, calcium, zinc, copper and selenium.

What happens if you eat cocoa beans?

Because of the high levels of antioxidants, raw cacao has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve overall heart function and circulation, and is associated with anti-aging and longevity. 2. It can help you feel relaxed and ease tension in the body.

Is cocoa good for blood pressure?

Evidence-Based Answer. Consuming 50 g of cocoa daily will lower blood pressure 2 to 3 mm Hg on average in adults with hypertension.

Does cocoa help you sleep?

Hot cocoa (commonly dissolved in milk) is also regarded as a sleep-promoting drink. The cocoa bean is a rich source of many beneficial chemicals, including compounds called flavonoids. Flavonoids have a range of potential health benefits, and may be used to treat some neurodegenerative disorders.

Does cacao thin the blood?

There is a growing body of science that confirms that dark chocolate does indeed provide health benefits. Dark chocolate thins the blood and performs the same anti-clotting activity as aspirin. Many doctors recommend baby aspirin to reduce our risk of heart attack or stroke.

Is cacao anti-inflammatory?

Cocoa has been reported to have medicinal properties. It contains a wide range of phytochemicals, including polyphenols, which have been shown to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, and also to have a positive effect on pain.

What is the difference between cacao and cocoa?

Cacao is the raw, unprocessed version of cocoa. Both can benefit your health, but it's best to stick to either the raw version, cacao, or a chocolate product that has a high chocolate liquor content. Raw cacao can take some getting used to. It tastes a little different than cocoa products and can be slightly bitter.

Which is healthier cocoa or cacao?

Cacao products are clear winners. They have higher antioxidant content than cocoa products, and the former is also the purest form of chocolate you can consume as they are raw and less processed than cocoa powder or common chocolate bars. Cacao is one of the best sources of antioxidants, iron, fibre and magnesium.

Are cocoa beans a fruit or vegetable?

Cacao (or cocoa) beans are technically not beans or legumes, but rather the seeds of the fruit of the Theobroma cacao tree. The pod shaped fruit is botanically classified as baccate-like (berry-like) and each pod produces approximately 35-50 seeds surrounded by a sweet pulp [2].

Can I chew cocoa seed?

To eat cacao fruit, you pop one of those pulp-covered seeds in your mouth, and suck the sweet flesh off the seed. The pulp has a wonderful complex fruity flavor, sweet and tart, with hints of citrus, mango, maybe even pineapple.

Can I drink hot cocoa everyday?

Whilst it might not be a good idea to enjoy an extra-indulgent mug of hot chocolate every day, this doesn't mean that you have to avoid it completely – fats are actually an essential part of a healthy, balanced diet, as they are a source of essential fatty acids, which the body can't make itself.

Can you drink cacao every day?

The short answer is YES! Yes you can. Cacao is packed full of essential vitamins and nutrients that make your body thrive.

Which is healthier cocoa or coffee?

Brewed cacao is healthier than regular and even decaf coffee, the latter of which can contain harmful chemicals. Because theobromine, an alkaloid found in cacao, dilates the blood vessels instead of shrinking them the way caffeine does, drinking brewed cacao increases blood flow. This is how it gives your body energy.

How much cocoa powder is too much?

Cacao is very powerful on the central nervous system and eating large quantities can interfere with calcium retention. Don't consume more than 40 grams (or four to six heaped teaspoons) of raw cacao a day.

Reduce Blood pressure

Researchers found that consuming cocoa-containing foods can help lower blood pressure levels in a small sample size of participants, cocoa bean has flavonoids that help to lower blood pressure and enhance the elasticity of blood vessels. The research shows that it has a positive effect on diastolic and systolic blood pressure.

Helps the brain function well

Cocoa is rich in flavonol which has positive effects on brain health. It helps to assist with memory functions and learning. These neuroprotective benefits could also have favourable effects on learning and memory functions.

Lower the risk of heart attack and stroke

Cocoa powder is rich in flavonoids – namely, procyanidin, catechin, and epicatechin, which may have antioxidant properties. In moderate amounts, it can help in protecting the cells from damage, while strengthening the heart. It may prevent the formation of fatal blood clots which can lead to stroke or cardiac failure.

Helps in weight management

A study has shown the potential benefits of cocoa might include preventing high-fat-diet-induced obesity. Its intake can help in modulating lipid metabolism and may reduce the synthesis and transport of fatty acids. It may also improve thermogenesis, which is the mechanism of heat production in white adipose tissues and the liver.

What are the nutrients in cocoa beans?

Cocoa beans also contain many vitamins and minerals as well as healthy doses of potassium and copper , which support cardiovascular health, and iron, which transports oxygen through the body. Calcium and magnesium is also found in cocoa beans, which are necessary in order for all the major organs to function properly.

What are cocoa beans?

Cocoa beans are considered to be nature's anti-depressant. These beans contain dopamine, phenylethylamine (PEA) and serotonin, all of which are used to promote positive mental health and moods. In addition to this, these beans also contain monoamine oxidase inhibitors and amino acid tryptophan.

What is the plant that produces cacao beans?

Cacao beans are produced by the plant Theobroma cacao , which translated, means "food of the Gods". That is a good name for them, given the numerous health benefits provided by them. Listed below are the many health benefits of cocoa beans:

Why is epicatechin removed from cocoa?

Due to its bitter flavor, epicatechin is often removed from common cocoa products, therefore to reap the benefits of this compound it is necessary to purchase whole cocoa beans.

Which is better, blueberries or cocoa beans?

That is three times more antioxidants than green tea and twice the amount in red wine. Blueberries are often said to be a great source of antioxidants, however, while domestic blueberries have 32 antioxidants, and wild blueberries have 61, cocoa beans have 621!

Where are cacao beans grown?

Cocoa beans are primarily grown in Africa, Asia and, Central and South America. Cacao beans are produced by the plant Theobroma cacao, which translated, means "food of the Gods". That is a good name for them, given the numerous health benefits provided by them. Listed below are the many health benefits of cocoa beans:

Does cocoa beans help with heart health?

Cocoa beans contain magnesium. This is another nutrient that promotes good heart health. Magnesium increases heart strength and improves its condition. This helps to ensure that the heart will continue to effectively pump blood. Magnesium also decreases the risk of blood clots. This in turn, reduces the risks of strokes and heart attacks.

Why is cocoa used in healing?

The extracts of Cocoa are believed to possess wound healing and therapeutic properties. The extracts prevent the chances of infections in the human body. It is also useful to eliminate bacteria named Helicobacter pylori from the human body . ( 16) ( 17)

What are the different types of cocoa beans?

The beans which have been derived from the Cocoa tree are called Cocoa beans. The other common names for Cocoa bean are Cocoa, Cacao and Cacao bean. It is used to extract cocoa butter and cocoa solids. It is used as the basis for making chocolate. The term cocoa was derived from the Spanish word “cacao” and Nahuatl word “cacahuatl”. Criollo, Forastero and Trinitario are the three main varieties of the cocoa plant. Cocoa is loaded with antioxidants such as flavonoids and procyanidins that help to provide anti-aging properties. It has also high concentration of epicatechin that is helpful for cardiovascular health. Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Ecuador, Nigeria and Cameroon are the largest exporters of Cocoa beans whereas United States, Netherlands, Belgium-Luxembourg and Malaysia are the highest importers of Cocoa beans in the world.

How much protein is in cocoa powder?

In 86 grams of unsweetened dry powder of Cocoa, we could find 2.58 g of moisture, 196 calories, 16.86 g of protein, 11.78 g of total lipid fat, 4.99 g of ash, 49.79 g of carbohydrate, 31.8 g of total dietary fiber and 1.5 g of total sugars. The same serving size of Cocoa bean offers 3.258 mg of Copper, 11.92 mg of Iron, 3.3 mg of Manganese, 429 mg of Magnesium, 631 mg of Phosphorus, 31.8 g of Total dietary fiber, 0.252 g of Tryptophan, 5.86 mg of Zinc, 1.012 g of Valine, 0.654 g of Isoleucine, 49.79 g of Carbohydrate, 0.667 g of Threonine, 16.86 g of Protein, 11.78 g of Total lipid fat, 1311 mg of Potassium, 1.023 g of Leucine, 0.845 g of Lysine, 0.292 g of Histidine, 12.3 µg of Selenium, 0.207 mg of Vitamin B2, 1.879 mg of Niacin and 110 mg of Calcium.

Which countries import cocoa beans?

Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Ecuador, Nigeria and Cameroon are the largest exporters of Cocoa beans whereas United States, Netherlands, Belgium-Luxembourg and Malaysia are the highest importers of Cocoa beans in the world.

Where did cocoa beans originate?

Cocoa bean. Origin. Being Cocoa tree native to America, it has been originated in Mexico and Central America. It was consumed before 5000 years ago by pre-Columbian cultures. It could be found in Orinoco and Amazon basins. Colors. Dark brownish.

Where is cocoa grown?

It is grown in Africa as well. Ghana and Ivory coast is the highest producer of cocoa beans. The color of the pod ranges from red to yellow.

Does cocoa help with diabetes?

Cocoa intake effectively improves insulin resistance as well as glucose metabolism. It also regulates the level of sugar in the body. Proanthocyanidins inhibits the formation of cataracts which is promoted by diabetes. It has antioxidant activity that helps to treat diabetic problems such as diabetic nephrotoxicity. Cocoa eliminates free radicals due to the presence of therapeutic properties that helps to treat the cellular injuries. The research shows that the intake of flavonol helps to improve the vascular functions of diabetic patients. ( 11) ( 12) ( 13) ( 14)

How much cocoa does a person need to reduce blood pressure?

One review analyzed 35 experiments that provided patients with 0.05–3.7 ounces (1.4–105 grams) of cocoa products , or roughly 30–1,218 mg of flavanols. It found that cocoa produced a small but significant reduction of 2 mmHg in blood pressure.

How long does it take for cocoa to increase blood flow?

A two-week study in 34 older adults given high-flavanol cocoa found blood flow to the brain increased by 8% after one week and 10% after two weeks ( 14. Trusted Source. ). Further studies suggest that daily intake of cocoa flavanols can improve mental performance in people with and without mental impairments ( 15.

How is cocoa powder made?

Cocoa powder is made by crushing cocoa beans and removing the fat or cocoa butter. Today, cocoa is most famous for its role in chocolate production. However, modern research has revealed that it does indeed contain important compounds that can benefit your health. Here are 11 health and nutrition benefits of cocoa powder.

Why are flavanols used in food?

Flavanols in fruits, vegetables and other foods have attracted a great deal of interest due to their cancer-protective properties, low toxicity and few adverse side effects.

When was cocoa first used?

Written by Elise Mandl, BSc, APD on August 9, 2018. Cocoa is thought to have first been used by the Maya civilization of Central America. It was introduced to Europe by Spanish conquerors in the 16th century and quickly became popular as a health-promoting medicine. Cocoa powder is made by crushing cocoa beans and removing the fat or cocoa butter.

Does cocoa lose its properties?

It’s especially abundant in flavanols, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, processing and heating cocoa can cause it to lose its beneficial properties. It’s also often treated with alkaline to reduce bitterness, which results in a 60% decrease in flavanol content ( 1. ).

Is cocoa a polyphenol?

So while cocoa is a great source of polyphenols, not all products containing cocoa will provide the same benefits. Summary Cocoa is rich in polyphenols, which have significant health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved cholesterol levels.

What are the benefits of cocoa beans?

Health benefits of Cocoa beans 1 Cocoa beans, akin to vanilla beans and saffron, are one of the highly prized, non-pungent condiment ingredients employed especially as a flavoring agent in a wide array of confectionaries. 2 The beans carry high calories because of their high-fat content. Cocoa solids, a byproduct of cocoa mass after extracting cocoa butter, on the other hand, is very low in calories. 3 Cocoa powder carries minerals and phytochemicals at higher concentrations that were nearly a miss in the cocoa butter. 4 Cocoa solids contain phytochemicals; theobromine, and caffeine. Thier levels, however, is far below that found in the coffee powder. 5 Theobromine and caffeine are nervous system stimulants and work as mood elevators. 6 Additionally, cocoa has phenolic antioxidants like catechins, anthocyanidins, and pro-anthocyanidins. Research studies suggest that these chemical compounds, by virtue of their antioxidant properties, work against cancers, inflammation, aging, and viral infections. 7 Its solid-extracts carry good amounts of B-complex groups of vitamins such as niacin, pantothenic acid, thiamin, riboflavin and vitamin B-6. These vitamins help in enzyme synthesis, nervous system function and regulating body metabolism. 8 Further, the solids also contain an excellent composition of minerals such as iron, selenium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, and zinc. Selenium is a cardio-protective, and antioxidant found abundantly in these beans.

Why are beans high in calories?

The beans carry high calories because of their high-fat content. Cocoa solids, a byproduct of cocoa mass after extracting cocoa butter, on the other hand, is very low in calories. Cocoa powder carries minerals and phytochemicals at higher concentrations that were nearly a miss in the cocoa butter. Cocoa solids contain phytochemicals; theobromine, ...

How long does cocoa powder ferment?

Farmers in the plantation harvest mature cocoa fruits and extract beans manually from pods which undergo fermentation lasting for about a week.

What color are cocoa pods?

Immature pods are green or maroon in a color that ripens to a bright yellow and orange color respectively as they mature. While there are several cultivars of cocoa around the world, only three varieties popular for their unique fragrance and commercial importance; Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario.

What family is cocoa in?

Binomially, cocoa plant belongs to the Malvaceae or mallow family of flowering plants. Other well-known members of this family include durian, okra, cotton, and kola nuts.

How tall is a cacao tree?

The plant demands a tropical, humid climate but shady coverings to thrive. At maturity, the cultivated cacao tree stands 15-to-25 feet tall, though it may reach 50 feet or more in the wild. Cocoa pods appear on the 3rd year of plantation and continue to yield fruits for up to 30 years.

Is unsweetened cocoa powder bitter?

Unsweetened cocoa powder is dark brown and bitter in taste, and therefore, unpalatable as is. Confectioners usually mix it with milk solids and sugar in order to prepare mouth-watering delights!.

What are the benefits of eating cacao beans?

So let’s explore Cacao beans health benefits: Contain large amounts of vitamins and minerals, including potassium and copper – which are an invaluable support for the health of the cardiovascular system; Rich in vitamins B1, B2, PP, calcium – which are necessary for all major organs to function properly; Consist of more than 300 healthy compounds ...

Why do we use cacao beans?

Grated cacao beans are normally used for self-care – they improve the skin tone due to the intensive removal of toxins and excess fluid from the tissues.

How many calories are in 100g of cacao?

Remember that consuming cacao beans means consuming a lot of calories: there are 400-500 kcal in 100g of cacao. Due to the high caloric content, it is important to maintain a dosage limit when it comes to including cacao in your diet.

What are the most powerful antioxidants?

Consist of more than 300 healthy compounds like phenylethylamine, theobromine, and polyphenols (polyphenols are one of the most powerful antioxidants, they have the ability to break down fats and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease);

Is cacao good for you?

Cacao beans attract the gourmands of almost every culture, as this wonderful fruit is a valuable source of chocolate, cocoa powder, and cocoa butter. Absorbing the benefits of tropical forests, cacao beans are enormously good for everyone regardless of age or sex.

Can you use cocoa beans for dessert?

Just two pieces can energize you for a few hours. Fresh cocoa beans can be used for making desserts: peel beans, mix chopped nuts, and honey. This dish has a pleasant mild taste and almost no bitterness. Enjoy another simple recipe that is sure to come in handy in your kitchen – a cocktail.

Is cacao bitter?

These beans are rather bitter in taste though they are widely eaten raw. Nevertheless, this product is mostly known as being grounded for chocolate. What is the Difference Between Cocoa and Cacao. Even though we do hear a lot about cacao, hardly anyone can single out the utmost pros of the item.

Why is hot cocoa good for you?

Since cocoa is an excellent source of magnesium, a cup of hot cocoa in the morning is good to boost energy. It is because magnesium is able to optimizing the function of oxygen and regulate blood pressure. Related: Health Benefits of Beer. Health Benefits of Drinking Whisky.

Why is chocolate bitter?

It is because the chocolate products has been added with additional substances like sugar and dairy to sweetened the taste because the original taste of cocoa is bitter. In other words, for the health benefits of cocoa you only could obtain it from the raw form and not the processed one.

Is cocoa the same as chocolate?

Well, don’t consider cocoa is the same with chocolate products which are mostly calories dense because unsurprisingly the dark cocoa or cocoa powder which comes from the cocoa seeds or beans are highly nutritious. It is because the chocolate products has been added with additional substances like sugar and dairy to sweetened the taste because the original taste of cocoa is bitter. In other words, for the health benefits of cocoa you only could obtain it from the raw form and not the processed one.

Does cocoa help with cataracts?

It is due to the proanthocynidins contained in cocoa that will help in inhibiting the formation of cataract. Related: Health Benefits of Beta-Carotene. Treat Asthma Naturally.

Is beer good for you?

Protection from Osteoporosis. Well, all foods that is rich of magnesium is good for bone health and able to fight osteoporosis significantly and cocoa is one of the super food in the top of the list.

Does cocoa help with dementia?

Related: Prevent Alzheimer and Dementia. Rich of Magnesium. Besides copper, cocoa is also rich of magnesium so it is also effective to treat all kinds of health conditions caused by magnesium deficiency. Furthermore, consuming it in daily basis will maintain human body from lacking of magnesium in long term.

Is cocoa good for seniors?

It is good to be consumed when you were young and the benefits will stay longer than you think because a cup of cocoa in the morning is a secret to senior age with zero cognitive problem. Related: Best Exercises for Women. Health Benefits of Playing Tennis. Health Benefits of Playing Soccer.

Why are cacao beans good for you?

Therefore, also on the list of cacao beans health benefits is the ability to help protect the body from disease. Cacao beans, with their high level of antioxidants, can fight free radicals within the body that arise due to sun exposure, pollution, and toxins in our food. These free radicals, left unchecked, can lead to a variety of diseases, ...

What is cacao bean?

Cacao beans are the fermented and fully dried seeds of the Theobroma cacao, or cacao tree. Harvested from this seed are the cocoa solids as well as, from the seed’s fat, cocoa butter. As you may know, cocoa butter itself boasts plenty of its own health benefits, and is often used as a moisturizer in the form of lotions and creams.

How to use cacao nibs?

Here are some ideas for using cacao in your food: 1 Blend cacao nibs or cacao beans into fruit smoothies 2 Add the whole raw cacao beans or cacao nibs to granola and trail mixes 3 Add cacao nibs or powder to oatmeal or yogurt 4 Mix cacao powder with your favorite nut milk 5 Add cacao powder to your favorite protein drink 6 Use cacao nibs instead of sugary chocolate chips in frozen yogurt, pancakes, muffins, cookies, etc.

What are flavonoids in cacao?

Flavonoids are present in many plants, including the cacao bean. They are a type of phytonutrient that contain antioxidants, which help promote health in numerous ways, including improving the health of our hearts. 3. Neutralizes Free Radicals.

How to hide the bitter taste of beans?

Alternatively, if the beans are too bitter for your taste, grind them into a powder. This will help to better hide the taste in your foods and drinks.

Does cacao have flavanols?

If you’ve heard that cacao has health benefits, you may have heard that it contains flavanols. But what do these flavanols do? …A whole lot of good for your heart and overall health, that’s what! Flavanols are present naturally in many foods, including apples, pears, tea grapes, blueberries, and yes, cacao. But what does that mean for the health of our hearts?

Is cacao nibs cheaper than cacao beans?

Still, the cacao nib offers plenty of nutritional benefits, and it’s often less expensive than cacao beans.

What are the benefits of eating cacao nibs?

Cacao nibs contain many antioxidants. These antioxidants can help reduce cell damage in your body, which helps prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and cancer. Here are some other health benefits of the nutrients in cacao nibs:

Why are cacao nibs good for you?

The flavonoids and potassium in cacao nibs may lower your risk of heart disease because they help reduce the stress on your cells and lower your blood pressure.

What is a cacao nib?

Cacao nibs, also known as cocoa nibs, are crumbled bits of dried cacao beans, which grow on the cacao tree. Cacao nib producers dry and crack the beans into small pieces. Cacao nibs are part of the same bean used in chocolate candy production.

How many grams of sugar are in a cacao nib?

Carbohydrates: 6 grams. Fiber: 4 grams. Sugar: 1 gram. Cacao nibs may be a healthier alternative to chocolate chips in recipes, but it’s still a good idea to limit how many desserts you include in your diet. Cookies and other sweets usually contain a great deal of sugar and unhealthy fats.

Where do cacao beans grow?

This includes countries like Brazil, Ecuador, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Can you use cacao nibs in savory recipes?

Both sweet and savory recipes can include cacao nibs. You can roast raw cacao nibs at home or use them in an unroasted state. Roasted cacao nibs are less bitter, so you may need less sweetener to add balance to the flavor of recipes that call for cacao nibs.

Do cacao nibs have caffeine?

Cookies and other sweets usually contain a great deal of sugar and unhealthy fats. Like other forms of cacao beans, cacao nibs contain a measurable amount of caffeine and can produce the same side effects. Both sweet and savory recipes can include cacao nibs.

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• The study shows that cocoa bean has high antioxidants in comparison to green tea, black tea and red wine. The antioxidants helps to eradicate oxygen based free radicals from the body. Moreover, it has numerous phenolic phytochemicals and flavonoids. (5)

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