The benefits of 100% cocoa chocolate –

if before the chocolate was once seen as a villain, today the food has gained tasty and healthy versions (as we unveiled in this article)! That’s because there are more and more delicious versions of the delicacy with high cocoa concentrations in its composition.

Native to the Amazon region and object of study due to its numerous health benefits, the cocoa is rich in flavonoids, bioactive compounds present in various foods. Cocoa has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant function, prevents several chronic and cardiovascular diseases, as well as helping to regulate blood sugar levels and improve mood.

Despite so many benefits, 70% of cocoa is discarded in traditional production: only the almonds are used. To use 100% of the fruit, a new brand, Wholefruit, by Cacao Barry, brought together 30 chefs and confectioners who carried out research for almost two years to understand how to use 100% of the pure fruit. Following principles of sustainability, chocolate is free of refined sugars and preservatives. It also doesn’t take milk: it just uses the pulp of the fruit, normally thrown away.

When tasting, the chocolate rich in cocoa reveals a natural acidity, fruity notes that bring freshness and a depth of natural cocoa flavor. To enjoy the benefits of the product for the body, it is only necessary to enjoy it in moderation and in balanced doses.

Discover more benefits of cocoa:

1. Helps improve mood

Who never ate a chocolate and instantly became a little happier? Cocoa increases the production of serotonin in the body, which is the hormone responsible for well-being. In addition, it is rich in magnesium, ideal for helping to combat depression, insomnia and anxiety.

2. Fights cholesterol and helps with heart health

High cholesterol can cause different heart problems, so by including cocoa in your diet (always with the guidance of your nutritionist), the fruit helps reduce high blood cholesterol levels, thanks to flavonoids. In addition, it contains an oleic acid, responsible for fighting heart disease and even free radicals in excess.

3. Lowers blood pressure

The flavonoids present in cocoa come into action at one more moment, also helping with blood pressure. This substance acts as a vasodilator, making blood flow better and thus lowering blood pressure.

4. Helps with respiratory health

Cocoa beans contain two substances called xanthine and theophylline, which act by causing the closed bronchi to relax by dilating them. With this, they facilitate air flow and help in the fight against allergies, asthma and shortness of breath.

5. Take care of the skin

Did you know that cocoa can also be used for skin health? It helps to reduce the effects of spots caused by the sun’s rays and leaves the skin less wrinkled, maintaining its elasticity and hydration.

6. Helps reduce inflammation

Rich in antioxidants, cocoa decreases cell damage caused by free radicals and inflammation. In addition, it helps to lower the amount of C-reactive protein in the blood, which is an indicator of inflammation.

7. Helps regulate the intestine

Once again the flavonoids come into play, this time together with the catechins and reach the large intestine helping to increase the amount of good bacteria that have a prebiotic effect and can improve the functioning of the intestine.

You already consume cocoa daily to enjoy the fruit’s rich benefits? Do you prefer the powdered version or the classic dark chocolate? It is worth remembering that it is always very important to consult a nutritionist in order to understand how, what is the best form and amount of cocoa to include in the daily diet and skin care routine.