If we could add something to your backpack before you head out to Volcán Acatenango it would be cocoa nibs so you can feel energized all the way up. We would place some cocoa nibs in your desk too, because cocoa helps you stay focused and improves your memory. And we would drop it in your gym bag because cocoa’s properties support proper muscle function.
In fact, cocoa is an excellent addition to any diet, not only as a treat but as a nutritious food that will benefit your physical, mental and even emotional health! In Guatemala we have the privilege of having easy access to cocoa.
BENEFITS
OF COCOA BEANS
You have probably heard that cocoa increases serotonin, dopamine, and phenethylamine production. These three neurotransmitters alleviate depression and provide us with sensations of happiness, focus, and wellbeing.
Cocoa also contains an essential mineral for our brain health: magnesium, which is in charge of more than 300 chemical reactions in our body. Despite of its importance for our health, many people have magnesium deficiency.
About magnesium and other minerals found in cocoa beans
Magnesium and calcium must be taken in the correct ratio so that the body can make use of them.
Just as they are in cocoa beans
Magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, and copper
Cocoa is an excellent source of these minerals, some of their functions are:
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Support proper muscle function, allowing muscle contraction and relaxation.
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Transforming food in energy, which helps prevent fatigue.
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Moderate the production of hormones such as adrenaline, which alleviates stress and allows relaxation.
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Contributes to several cognitive functions (such as memory, focus, and reasoning).
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Supports bone and teeth health.
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Regulates sugar levels in blood and regulates blood pressure. It also supports in coagulation.
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Improves digestion.
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Supports the production of protein, bone mass, and DNA (genetic material found in cells).
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Produces hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body.
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Contributes to the immune system.
Antioxidants
Cocoa beans contain more antioxidants than blue berries and goji berries. Some of the benefits in antioxidants are:
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Anti-inflammatory effect. Which prevents or delays the onset of numerous chronic diseases.
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Vasodilator effect, which improves circulation and increases the amount of blood that reaches the brain. This improves mental performance, increases insulin sensitivity and helps prevent neurological diseases. There are other properties of cocoa that also contribute to good circulation, such as theobromine and magnesium.
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It lowers the levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and increases the “good” (HDL).
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Creates greater resistance to wrinkles.
Today, we are exposed to toxins in our environment, in our food (processed and with preservatives), in our cleaning and beauty products. Free radicals are found in toxins, which cause a phenomenon called oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is responsible for the accelerated damage of cells and tissues, which leads to various diseases.
Cocoa contains flavonoids, which is why it is a great source of antioxidants and polyphenols. Antioxidants help eliminate free radicals by taking their place, thereby reducing or preventing cell damage.
Cocoa is also a good source of fiber, healthy fats, and B vitamins.
The higher percentage of cocoa your chocolate has, the greater the benefits. Based on this, we recommend our products that are 100% cocoa or that have a high percentage of cocoa, such as:
Cacao nibs, cocoa beans, dark chocolate covered cocoa beans, hot chocolate (100% cocoa), dark chocolate.
