Cocoa originally comes from South and Central America. The Aztecs in Mexico cultivated cocoa trees, and the cocoa beans were considered so valuable that they were used as a means of payment. The Mayan Indians called cocoa for "the food of the gods" because it was so full of good qualities. Today we know why. It turns out that the cocoa bean contains over 300 different substances, making it one of the most complex and most nutritious foods available.
The scientific plant name for cocoa is Theobroma cacao, which comes from Latin: theos = god and broma = food. Cocoa is a good source of both antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, proteins and healthy fat. Cocoa actually contains whole 10% antioxidants - about twice as much as in red wine and three times as much as in green tea, both of which are known to be rich in antioxidants. In addition, the antioxidants in cocoa are readily absorbable to the body and they have a good effect on the cardiovascular system. Athletes use raw cocoa for greater stamina, better performance and motivation, and greater mental clarity. In addition, the anti-oxidants also contribute to shorter recovery time and protect against free radicals.
Cocoa is one of the world's best sources of arginine - an amino acid that is also known as "nature's own Viagra". Arginine increases blood flow to the heart and genital organs, which can often do wonders.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is converted into serotonin (also called the "slim hormone") in the body. Tryptophan is naturally found in raw cocoa.
In addition, cocoa contains phenylethylamine (PEA) - an adrenaline-like substance that is popularly called the "slim molecule". There are only two types of food that contain this: cocoa and blue-green algae. PEA is released naturally when we are in love, which can explain why chocolate is often linked with love.
Vitamins: A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, Kolin, C, E and K.
Minerals: iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, copper manganese, selenium, potassium, and zinc.
providing the body with carbohydrates, protein, and dietary fiber.
So there are many good reasons to include raw cocoa powder in your daily diet.