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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : December 9, 2014 11:20 AM IST
Cocoa powder can be beneficial for patients suffering from asthma. © Shutterstock
Several people avoid cocoa since they are under the impression that it's fattening. Yes, chocolate isn't the healthiest item you could eat but that surely doesn't mean you should completely avoid it. You can always stick to the roots -- try cocoa powder instead. If you are still wondering what cocoa can do for you, let's make it a little easy for you!
Great for your heart
Cocoa is known for its compounds. Till today, there are only 700 of them that have been discovered. It is full of antioxidants which prove to be great for your cardiovascular health. It contains flavanols, flavones and anthocyanins which protect the cells of our body. Cocoa also contains polyphenols which protect the heart and prevent the walls and arteries from getting clogged. It can also reduce cholesterol and help in keeping blood pressure in-check.
Puts you in a good mood
Cocoa can also take care of a mood that is sad and unhappy. Yes, you read that right! This natural ingredient can uplift your bad and depressing mood and make you feel alive and good. This is because chocolate or cocoa tends to stimulate the nervous system. It contains theobromine which contributes to this.
Makes your skin beautiful
Having beautiful and glowing skin is every woman's desire. And why shouldn't it be? If your skin is charming and radiant, you will look attractive at almost any time of the day without even applying make-up. Your skin will be soft and your body will also look young and gorgeous. A great way to keep your skin beautiful is by adding some cocoa powder to your diet. It contains high amounts of antioxidants that will cleanse your skin and impart that healthy glow you were looking for.
How to use cocoa in daily life
There are several ways in which you could use cocoa for your health. Here are a couple of suggestions that should help you.
Sprinkle over fruit
A very smart and healthy way to use cocoa is to sprinkle it over a bowl of fruits. This will help you to maintain your weight and not eat too much either. Don't do this more than thrice a week. You don't want to consume too much of chocolate too. Fruits with cocoa powder sprinkled over are great for the health, body and mind.
Make hot cocoa
You could also make some hot cocoa during the weekend especially if you are going to be working late at night. All you will need is some hot water, cocoa powder, milk, salt and vanilla extract. It's advisable to try sugar-free products instead of raw sugar. Hot cocoa takes only 15 minutes to prepare and is absolutely delicious.
Use it to make a face mask
Use cocoa to make yourself a nice face mask. All you will need for this is cocoa powder, one tablespoon of honey, another tablespoon of oatmeal, two tablespoons of yoghurt and a dash of lemon juice. Mix will and apply all over the face. Let it stay for 20 minutes. Wait till it dries and then you can wash it off with cold water. Use this face mask three times a week and you will be able to reap maximum benefits of it.
Smell it
Now this may sound weird but it is true! Smelling cocoa can help you reduce your cravings and binge less. So if you want to lose some weight and see quicker changes, cocoa is a must. Just smell it! That's all.
Image source: Getty Images
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