- Is dark cocoa powder good for you?
- Does dark chocolate improve your mood?
- Is dark cocoa powder healthier than regular cocoa powder?
- What is dark cocoa powder used for?
- Is it good to drink cocoa powder everyday?
- What are the side effects of dark cocoa?
- Is dark cocoa a blood thinner?
- Is 100% pure cocoa good for you?
Is dark cocoa powder good for you?
Dark cocoa powder benefits your health, thanks to high content of antioxidant molecules, particularly flavonoids. Flavonoids, such as epicatechin found in cocoa powder, have been shown to stimulate brain perfusion and improve cognitive performance. They can also help preserve cognitive abilities during aging, lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, and decrease the risk of stroke.
A study of 1297 participants in 2011 found consistent short and long-term benefits of chocolate or cocoa on cardiovascular health. The study reported positive effects on blood vessels' flexibility and insulin resistance.
Much of dark cocoa powder benefits is attributed to flavan-3-ols. Flavan-3-ols are a class of polyphenolic compounds that are widely distributed in plants and are particularly abundant in foods such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes, tea, coffee, wine, and cocoa-derived products. They are characterized by their chemical structure, which includes a flavan nucleus with three hydroxyl groups (hence the name flavan-3-ols).
Multiple studies found evidence on flavan-3-ols' antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Flavan -3-ols may have various health-promoting effects, including cardiovascular protection, improvement of lipid profiles, blood pressure regulation, insulin resistance reduction, and anti-inflammatory activity. Furthermore, flavan-3-ols have potential anticancer properties. Some studies have suggested a possible protective effect against certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer.
However, despite all its great potential benefits, flavan-3-ols are tricky to digest. Some individuals may have the capability of digesting and metabolizing flavan-3-ols more efficiently, while others may not. This depends on the gut flora, or microbiome, inside your intestines. Each person has different arrays of microbiome. Inability to efficiently digests flavan-3-ols or any other flavonoids will prevent unlocking their full potential health benefits.
It is important to note that while dark cocoa powder can have health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption of cocoa products, especially those with added sugars and fats, can lead to weight gain and other negative health effects. Furthermore, individual responses to cocoa may vary, and it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.
Does dark chocolate improve your mood?
There is evidence suggesting that cocoa consumption, including dark chocolate and cocoa polyphenols, may have positive effects on mood and mental health. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 2013 found that cocoa polyphenols enhanced positive mood states in healthy participants.
Another study about cocoa powder compound, theobromine, has a positive effect on mood. Theobromine contributes to cocoa's taste profile while simultaneously stimulate the central nervous system. Hence, it increases alertness and mood.
Is dark cocoa powder healthier than regular cocoa powder?
In this case, let us assume that ‘heathier' means contains more antioxidants. So, does dark cocoa powder contain more antioxidants than regular cocoa powder? The answer is not necessarily.
At first, what makes cocoa powder dark? Most people assume that dark colour in cocoa powder means higher cocoa content. However, it is not always the case. The dark colour of cocoa powder is primarily contributed by the alkalization process, also known as Dutch processing. During this process, cocoa beans are treated with an alkaline solution, typically potassium carbonate, which raises the pH of the cocoa powder. Other than alkalization, factors such as fermentation, roasting, bean variety, and processing technique influences the colour of cocoa powder.
Alkalization, fermentation, and roasting during cocoa powder production reduces the flavonoid or antioxidant content of cocoa powder. At the same time, these processes can cause cocoa powder's colour to darken.
Therefore, dark cocoa powder is not necessarily healthier than regular cocoa powder. Further tests need to be made to truly certify which cocoa powder contains the most flavonoid. However, there is a study which shows that cocoa has more antioxidant than teas and red wine. So perhaps, either dark or regular cocoa powder are alright to consume in moderation.
What is dark cocoa powder used for?
Dark cocoa powder serves as a key ingredient in the creation of chocolates and various confectioneries. Its rich, deep cocoa taste is highly sought after in the crafting of chocolates. The intricate blend of flavours within cocoa powder, encompassing foundational cocoa notes and aromatic attributes, significantly shapes the overall taste profile of chocolate.
Beyond its role in flavour enhancement, dark cocoa powder also antioxidants. As mentioned above, the antioxidants present in cocoa are linked to multiple health advantages, although the precise health impacts remain under ongoing investigation.
Additionally, researchers have explored cocoa-based phytochemicals for their potential in safeguarding and maintaining skin health. The compounds found in cocoa powder may hold promise for supporting skin wellness and acting as a shield against environmental factors.
Is it good to drink cocoa powder everyday?
It depends on individual factors. As explained above, dark cocoa powder does contain beneficial antioxidants. Individual responses to ingestion of cocoa powder may vary. This depends on the ability to properly digest the flavonoid content of cocoa powder. Moreover, other factors such as dosage, duration of consumption, and individual health conditions also must be taken into account.
The best type of cocoa powder to drink is those with minimal processing and higher flavonoid content. Nevertheless, it is best to consult healthcare professional for your own health condition.
What are the side effects of dark cocoa?
Despite all dark cocoa powder benefits, it is important to note that individual responses to cocoa powder can vary, and some individuals may experience side effects or adverse reactions. Common side effects associated with excessive consumption of cocoa powder or dark chocolate include:
- Caffeine sensitivity: Dark cocoa powder contains caffeine, which can cause symptoms such as restlessness, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping in individuals who are sensitive to caffeine.
- Gastrointestinal discomfort: Excessive consumption of dark cocoa powder or dark chocolate can lead to digestive issues such as acid reflux, upset stomach, bloating, and diarrhea, particularly in individuals with sensitive digestive systems.
- Migraine: Some people may find that the tyramine content in dark cocoa triggers migraines or headaches in those prone to such reactions.
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to cocoa powder. Allergic reactions can manifest as skin rashes, itching, hives, or difficulty breathing.
- Interference with certain medications: Dark cocoa contains compounds that might interact with certain medications, particularly monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) used to treat depression. MAOIs can interact with food and beverages that contains tyramine, which is found in cocoa powder. The interaction of MAOIs and tyramine may cause dangerous increase in blood pressure.
3. Oxalate content: Dark cocoa powder contains oxalates, which could potentially contribute to kidney stones in individuals prone to oxalate-related issues.
It is important to consume cocoa powder or dark chocolate in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Individual tolerance and sensitivity to cocoa powder can vary, so it is advisable to monitor your own response and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or pre-existing health conditions.
Is dark cocoa a blood thinner?
Yes. According to research from John Hopkins University, USA, dark cocoa thins blood and has the same anti-clotting activity as aspirin. A 2007 study shows that chocolate eaters' blood were less likely to clot compared to non-eaters. The reason for this phenomenon is flavonoids in dark chocolate. Overall, it helps cardiovascular health by lowering the blood pressure.
Is 100% pure cocoa good for you?
Absolutely, unless you have cocoa allergy. Pure cocoa is sugar free and minimally processed, preserving most of its antioxidant content. Moreover, cocoa powder contains iron, zinc and selenium which helps bodily function.