Chocolate is one of the most popular sweets in the world. But there's more to this beloved treat than meets the eye. Here are six fun facts about chocolate that you may not have known:
The Health Benefits of Cocoa
Cocoa, like coffee, tea, and other plant-based beverages, contains antioxidants that may help protect against some chronic diseases. Emerging research also suggests that cocoa may have other health benefits, including improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the risk of stroke.
Cocoa is rich in flavonoids, a type of antioxidant linked to several health benefits. Flavonoids are thought to play a role in reducing inflammation and protecting against conditions like heart disease and cancer. The specific flavonoids found in cocoa include catechins, proanthocyanidins, and epicatechins.
Studies have shown that cocoa flavonoids can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. In one study, people with high blood pressure who drank two cups of cocoa per day for eight weeks had significantly lower blood pressure than those who didn’t consume cocoa.
While more research is needed to understand all of the potential health benefits of cocoa, there is no doubt that it’s a delicious way to get antioxidants into your diet. Enjoying a cup of hot cocoa or chocolate milk made with real dark chocolate is a great way to enjoy the flavour of cocoa while getting some health benefits at the same time.
How To Make Hot Cocoa / Hot Chocolate
Assuming you would like a recipe for making cocoa:
Ingredients:
-1 cup of milk
-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder or Linoui’s Cooking chocolate
-1 tablespoon of sugar
-1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
-Dash of salt
Instructions:
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Combine milk, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a small saucepan.
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Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a boil.
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Serve immediately.
(OR)
You can simply buy our Chocolate Dips and stir it in a cup of hot milk and enjoy a delicious cup of Belgian hot chocolate. It’s that easy!
Conclusion
The health benefits of cocoa have been known for centuries, and modern science is only beginning to confirm what traditional healers have long understood. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants and other phytochemicals that promote health and prevent disease. It is also a delicious and enjoyable way to get your daily dose of healthy chocolate!