Cocoa powder is a natural source of antioxidants that prevent an increase in the number of free radicals in the body and fight the harmful effects of the external environment. Clinical studies have proven that the antioxidant power of cocoa is several times higher than that of apples, berries and green tea.
Vitamin composition
Cocoa contains useful trace elements such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, copper, iron, as well as vitamins of groups A, E, B and PP.
Chemical composition
Nutrient | Quantity | Norm for an adult |
Caloric content of Vitamin A, RE | 289 kCal 3 mcg | 1684kcal 900 mcg |
Vitamin B1, thiamine | 0.1 mg | 1.5 mg |
Vitamin B2, riboflavin | 0.2 mg | 1.8 mg |
Vitamin E, alpha tocopherol, TE | 0.3 mg | 15 mg |
Vitamin PP, NE | 6.8 mg | 20 mg |
K | 1509 mg | 2500 mg |
Ca | 128 mg | 1000 mg |
Mg | 425 mg | 400 mg |
P | 655 mg | 800 mg |
Cl | 28 mg | 2300 mg |
Fe | 22 mg | 18 mg |
Mn | 4.625 мг | 2 мг |
Saturated fatty acids | 9 г | max 18.7 г |
Application and use of cocoa powder
Cocoa powder is famous for its following properties:
- Strengthens the immune system;
- Stimulates the nervous system;
- Normalizes metabolism;
- Strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
- Normalizes blood pressure;
- Improves digestion and digestive tract function.
- Reduces the likelihood of cancer;
- Protects the skin from the effects of ultraviolet and infrared radiation.
Recipe for making hot chocolate with the addition of cocoa powder
Ingredients:
- 5 tbsp cocoa powder
- 140 ml milk
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 10 g butter
- 10 g dark chocolate
Preparation:
Sift the cocoa powder into a small ladle or saucepan, add sugar. Then pour in the warm milk and mix until smooth. Put the ladle on medium heat and, stirring constantly with a whisk, bring the contents to a boil. Add butter, dark chocolate and mix the mixture until they are completely dissolved. Pour the hot chocolate into a cup. Enjoy your meal!
Method of application
The powder is perfectly combined with many products, but mostly its sphere of influence extends to confectionery creativity and baking. Also, the production of dairy products beloved by children, such as yoghurts, ice cream, chocolate milk and butter, cannot do without it.
Contraindications
It is contraindicated in atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, kidney disease and constipation, as cocoa can only aggravate the situation. Cocoa is also not recommended for children under 3 years of age.