
Hot cocoa is a stimulant found in the cocoa powder that is believed to possess health benefits of hot cocoa. This is the first time that scientific studies have shown the health benefits of hot cocoa. In fact, cocoa in hot chocolate was first introduced commercially in 1938.
It has since become one of the world’s most popular drinks and is consumed by millions worldwide. Hot cocoa is also used as a weight loss aid, although this benefit has not been proven clinically.
Cocoa has shown positive effects on various cardiovascular diseases by providing anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogen properties. These positive effects are mainly attributed to the presence of flavanols in cocoa, which stimulates the production of nitric oxide, which helps maintain blood flow.
Flavanols also help in improving the efficiency of the heart by reducing the build-up of cholesterol in the body. High levels of blood cholesterol cause atherosclerosis, a condition that increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Flavanols, by preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, also helps in preventing this condition.
The presence of L-theanine in hot cocoa powder also has health benefits of its own. L-theanine improves alertness and improves cognitive function in people suffering from dementia. Also, the amino acid L-glutamic acid is believed to have beneficial effects in the treatment of certain mental illnesses.
Glutamic acid also helps reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. There has been some scientific research pertaining to the health benefits of hot cocoa consumption. It was found that intake of the powder lowered the blood pressure levels in people with high blood pressure.
It is also believed to lower the levels of cholesterol in people with high cholesterol. Some experts believe that consumption of the powder could help prevent cardiac arrest or stroke. Cardiovascular diseases, in particular cardiovascular disease, are believed to be due to excessive fat consumption.
Consumption of cocoa helps in preventing the absorption of fats in the body. The powder could also reduce the risk of heart attack and coronary artery blockage. This is because it contains theobromine which acts as a weak inhibitor of histamine, a compound that triggers the heart attack.
Intake of the beverage in moderation is recommended. Most of the studies on the benefits of consuming hot cocoa show that its beneficial effects are independent of fat consumption. However, some researchers are not so optimistic about the benefits of the powder.
They argue that consumption of cocoa products has been associated with a number of serious ailments such as Parkinson’s disease, Type 2 diabetes, and even liver problems. These concerns were based on the fact that none of these disorders have been associated with the consumption of cocoa products.
However, this is difficult to say as research studies have not clearly proven any correlation between the consumption of cocoa and these illnesses. Still, one cannot discount the possibility since there are other research studies that also point to these benefits.
Another study that has brought forth the health benefits of hot cocoa is conducted by a team of researchers from Harvard. In their study, they had groups that consumed a drink that contained chocolate or did not. Later, they were observed for changes in the levels of inflammatory molecules in the blood.
Those who consumed the hot cocoa drinks were found to have lower levels of inflammatory molecules as compared to those who did not consume the drink. The benefits of hot cocoa were further explored by the scientists when they collaborated with the Nurses’ Health Study.
This study involved tracking the progress and progression of participants who had participated in the program already for more than 20 years. During the long period of observation, the scientists could determine that those who consumed more hot cocoa were less likely to develop any illness or disease.
Since there are now numerous medical tests that can verify and support these claims, it can be safely concluded that consuming hot cocoa is beneficial to your health. Now that you know what the science says, you should be able to convince anyone who will hear about them to include this kind of delicious treat in their diet. Head on over to Cocoa Classics to get a taste of one of the world’s best cocoa powders today!