Maya and aztecs they did many of their rituals around this plant. The cocoa, that food of the gods, according to the legends that have come down to us. It was a divine food, in addition to the most beautiful tree in the paradise of the Aztecs.
Do you know the nutritional properties of cocoa?
In addition to the fats that come from cocoa butter, contains carbohydrates and proteins. To a lesser extent, also minerals such as magnesium, which intervenes in processes of the immune system. Phosphorus also helps us build bones.
Then, it contains potassium, which allows to maintain the balance of water in the body. Also, theobromine is present, that which produces effects similar to those of caffeine. This stimulates the central nervous system and gives it the typical bitter taste of chocolate.
Furthermore, the cocoa contains Flavonoids, molecules that belong to polyphenols.
What are polyphenols?
Substances that plants produce and are found in food. They have antioxidant action and are potentially beneficial for health. They reduce the risk of contracting cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
What are flavonoids?
Responsible for the great coloring of plants, they are a set of molecules that belong to polyphenols and include more than 5,000 compounds. They are plant pigments found mainly in fruits, vegetables, flowers, red wine and green tea.
The Flavonoids they have large amounts of antioxidants. These help prevent cavities, flu, improve the health of the arteries and fight aging. All this through the prevention and repair of cell damage.
Around 10-20% of the weight of cocoa are flavonoids
Among them, the most abundant in chocolate are the catechins, molecules with medicinal properties. They are recognized as anticancer, antiarthritic, antiaggregant and immunostimulant.
The Maya they used the cocoa as medicine, with different uses: relaxing, stimulating, for longevity ... cocoa butter It was used as an ointment for to heal wounds.
The guarantee to be able to enjoy all these nutrients is to consume between 10 and 30 grams of good chocolate, with at least 80% cocoa.
