The doctor told about the beneficial properties of cocoa

Cocoa powder contains flavonoids, which help normalize blood pressure and improve blood circulation in the heart and brain. Ekaterina Kashukh, a gastroenterologist and an expert at the Hemotest laboratory, told Izvestia on December 12 about the benefits of cocoa and how to prepare it properly.

"The composition of cocoa powder includes flavonoids that help keep blood pressure normal and stimulate blood supply to the heart and brain, antioxidants - protect cells from free radicals and support brain function, as well as amino acids, such as tryptophan, a precursor of the joy hormone serotonin," Kashukh noted.

According to her, despite the beneficial properties of the drink, it should be consumed in moderation. Cocoa powder contains caffeine, although in smaller amounts than coffee. Consuming several cups of cocoa can lead to a rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure and sleep disturbances. In addition, for every 100g of cocoa powder, there are approximately 15g of fat. Therefore, by adding sugar and milk to the drink, you will significantly increase its calorie content because of the additional fats.

According to the expert, all types of cocoa beans have approximately equal impact on health and it is impossible to unequivocally state that one of them is more useful. The main difference lies in their flavor qualities. For example, forastero, the most popular variety, stands out with a rich chocolate aroma, criollo - an interesting and complex taste, and trinitario combines the advantages of both previous types. Therefore, when choosing cocoa, it is better to rely on your taste preferences.

There are no strict limits on the amount of cocoa consumption, and it is quite possible to enjoy several cups of this hot drink during the day. In addition, cocoa powder can be used in yogurt, morning cereal, added to fresh or canned fruit, as well as to prepare baked goods or smoothies. The general rule of thumb is that the powder should be diluted in warm liquids, or at least liquids at room temperature, otherwise the cocoa will instantly form small lumps.

"Cocoa should be included with caution in the diet of those who have a poor tolerance for fatty foods, as well as people with a highly excitable nervous system or gout. <...> Those who are overweight, cocoa is better to cook with water, not milk, and do not add sugar to the finished drink, "- summarized Kashukh.

Earlier, on November 27, endocrinologist, specialist in preventive and anti-age-medicine of the European Medical Center (EMC) Elena Ostrovskaya told "Izvestia" about how much chocolate is recommended to eat a day. According to her, one should not eat more than 20-30 g of chocolate a day.