5 Good Things Cocoa Can Do to Our Bodies

Everybody enjoys eating chocolate from time to time and making a warm cocoa drink, but few realize the substantial health benefits that cocoa provides for the body. Cocoa is a powder made from its seeds by crushing them and removing the fat. It was first used by the Mayans and later introduced to Europe, where it was used as medicine in those times. It’s time we reverse the old into the new and use cocoa as a medicine today as well.

1. It can relieve menstrual cramps.

When it comes to easing the pain of menstrual cramps naturally, eating some dark chocolate is the perfect solution. Dark chocolate contains this relieving cocoa, which carries a nutrient called magnesium. Your body needs magnesium in order to stay healthy. If you are experiencing pain in areas like the hips, thighs, and belly, the magnesium in the chocolate is a quick fix to calm the muscles of your uterus.

2. It may lower the chances of obesity.

If you thought that cocoa causes weight gain, you’re about to be surprised. Unless you consume a heavy amount of dark chocolate, healthy doses actually help control your weight.

Cocoa includes phytonutrients, which is a substance that comes from plants and is very healthy. Cocoa is also low in fat and sugar and is great for revving up your energy levels and simultaneously making you feel full. So, if you want a healthy weight loss solution without feeling hungry all the time, cocoa powder is a natural remedy for it.

3. It can help people with asthma and allergies.

Asthma can be scary and life-threatening, but don’t worry — there will always be something you can do to avoid your shakes of doubt regarding asthma. Cocoa contains 2 special compounds called theobromine and theophylline, which are both considered anti-asthmatic. The first one, theobromine, helps ease the airways in your lungs and protects against lung cancer because it lowers the risks of allergies; while theophylline helps your airways relax and has anti-inflammatory qualities.

4. It may improve immune function.

Cocoa is great for refreshing your immunity because it has antioxidant qualities that boost blood flow, make your gut healthier, and calm you down — and as a result, you will feel less stressed. There are also flavonols, our friends that are based in cocoa, and they are the main reason for better immune function. They help lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and reduce inflammation.

5. It can benefit teeth and skin.

Cocoa is great for protecting your gums from cavities and tooth decay. It contains polyphenols that help fight against the acid that invades your tooth enamel (the white substance covering the teeth).

Not only does cocoa help your teeth stay healthy, but it’s also great for your skin. You’ve probably believed that chocolate causes acne, but that’s a proven myth. In fact, it can actually benefit your skin. It’s devoted to sun protection and the overall hydration of your skin.

Did you find some of these benefits surprising? What health issues do you have that you want to improve?