Cocoa powder is a key ingredient in chocolate, decadent sweets, coffee, and a myriad of other baked goods that we consume on a daily basis. This natural superfood boasts a rich and complex flavor profile along with plenty of nutritional components that keep you healthy, energetic, and fit.
“Pure cocoa powder is a nutrient-packed substance with the power to boost both your physical and mental health.”, says the founder of Geohoney and the CEO of B A Barry Group, Mr Basem Barry.
But how can this delicious and savory ingredient improve your well-being? This is what this blog is all about. Here you will discover some surprising health benefits of pure cocoa powder that will definitely make you appreciate the special powers of this magical powder, so keep on reading till the end.
A Little About Pure Cocoa Powder
Nutritional Profile of Cocoa Powder
Health Benefits of Pure Cocoa Powder
Helps in Weight Management
Powerful Antioxidant
Improves Diabetes 2 Symptoms
Improves Brain Function
Regulates Blood Pressure
Enhances Immunity
Lowers the Risks of Cardiovascular Diseases
Mood Enhancing Effects
Can Alleviate Asthma Symptoms
Keeps Nerves and Muscles Healthy
Cocoa powder is derived from the seeds of the Theobroma cacao. The term Theobroma translates to “the food of the Gods”, while the word cacao has the literal meaning of “bitter water,” and nothing could describe this natural wonder better than that.
First cultivated in ancient South America, cocoa powder is now a key commodity in most households. Cocoa powder was introduced in Europe by Spanish conquistadors during the age of exploration.
Currently, the regions of the Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire), Ghana, Indonesia, Ecuador, and Brazil are the top producers of cocoa beans.
To make this powder, first, the cocoa beans are roasted, and then the shells are removed to obtain cocoa nibs. These nibs are milled in a nonalcoholic liquor. This liquor is then pressed to remove cocoa butter, and the leftover solid mass is broken down to get pure cocoa powder.
Cocoa powder is a powerhouse of nutrients. Natural and pure cocoa powder is minimally processed, which allows it to retain most of its minerals, fibers, and antioxidants that lead to its surprising health benefits.
A 2-tablespoon serving, or about 10 grams of cocoa powder, gives you
40 calories
2 grams of protein
3 grams of fat
2 grams of fiber
1.4mg of iron
50mg of magnesium
200mg of potassium
12mg of caffeine
200mg of Theobromine
Apart from that, cocoa powder is also a rich source of antioxidants like phenols and flavonoids as well as B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B7) and trace amounts of vitamins E and D.
The following are some key health benefits of pure cocoa powder that make it a perfect addition to your daily diet.
Moderate cocoa powder intake in coffee or baked goods has been found effective in weight management. Cocoa regulates energy consumption in your body and increases fat oxidation.
Moreover, cocoa is rich in phytonutrients but very low in unhealthy fats and sugars. It regulates your metabolism and enhances the feeling of fullness. Thus, by curbing appetite and reducing cravings, it ensures your weight loss efforts yield quicker and longer-lasting results.
Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants like phenols and flavonoids, which play a key role in managing the symptoms of diabetes, fatigue, inflammation, and heart disease.
Since cocoa is a rich source of antioxidants, its regular use can help you fight free radicals, slow down ageing, enhance immunity, and help you attain a healthier and glowing skin.