Chocolate is one of the most consumed foods in the world. Made from cocoa derived from the Theobroma cacao fruit, it was discovered 4,000 years ago. Presented and used in preparing many delectable dishes and desserts, it remains a staple during special occasions. But aside from its solid form, chocolate is also a favorite drink. A truly unique drink, it can be taken by itself or can be mixed with other ingredients such as fruits to enhance its taste.
Though mostly drunk by kids, adults can benefit from drinking chocolate especially when hot. Here are some from the healthy benefits from drinking hot chocolate:
1. Improves Heart Condition
Drinking hot chocolate regularly readily reduces the LDL cholesterol in the blood, thus preventing any premature heart diseases, coronary diseases, or heart attacks. This is because cocoa, which is the main ingredient of chocolate, contains high levels of antioxidants like flavanols & phytosterols which are released faster when using hot water.
2. Promotes Anti-Aging
Cocoa’s rich antioxidants compounds fight the free radicals of the human body thus improving overall functions of organs, delaying the aging process Polyphenols, flavan-3-ols and procyanidin, some of the antioxidants compounds found in cocoa.
3. Boosts Brain Functions
Scientific reports from joint research made by Universities of Illinois and Birmingham, suggest that cocoa flavanols boosts brain’s metabolism activating neurons significantly as proven by mental exam results between hot and cold chocolate drinkers.
4. Fights Diabetes
The natural sweetener found in cocoa has an opposite effect to the body compared to other sweeteners. According to a medical research published in pubmed.com, a regular consumption of 54g of cocoa or 100g of chocolate remarkably decreases the chance of developing type II diabetes as polyphenols and flavanols in chocolate balances body sugar.
5. Lowers Blood Pressure
Chocolate drinks when prepared hot effectively releases flavanols which in turn infuses nitric oxide leading to the dilation of arteries. This greatly lowers blood pressure and promotes proper and better circulation of blood. The bigger the artery, the lower the pressure needed in the circulation of the blood.
6. Promotes Weight Loss
In order to accomplish this, a higher portion of cocoa in hot drinks is required. The rich and creamy taste of hot chocolate lasts longer in the stomach for a longer period, thus diminishing any food cravings. Also, the catechins & flavanols found in chocolate produce antioxidants needed in loosening body fats.
7. Prevents Mood Swings
Drinking chocolate stimulates your body in releasing “feel good” chemicals, like endorphins. Endorphins react with other neurotransmitter systems (such as Serotonin and Dopamine) which positively affect or influence your mood, appetite, and reward regulation.
Live your life fully. Do not let yourself be deprived of good and beneficial stuff by health myths. Pure Nature is committed to promoting a healthy community through proper and balanced diet. And keeping you informed is one way of achieving our goal.