The cocoa tree has origins in Mexico and Central America.
The cocoa bean’s positive effects on health arise from a number of substances which all are bioflavonoids, many of which have antioxidant effects (e.g. epicatechin and catechin). Some of these substances are believed to protect against some forms of cancer, e.g. skin cancer and breast cancer. Blood pressure reducing effects of cocoa have been observed, and the risk of blood clot formation is believed to be reduced by a daily dose of cocoa. More research needs to be done.
The seed shells contain theobromine, which has a stimulating effect much like that of caffeine, only weaker. Cocoa also contains the amino acid tryptophan, which is a precursor to serotonin which, like endorphin, increases psychological wellbeing. The substance 2-Phenylethylamine, which is found in low levels in cocoa, gives off the “reward hormone” dopamine and is partially responsible for making chocolate addicting. This is especially true for women, but also to some degree in men. Cocoa is also rich in the minerals magnesium and copper, which are especially important for the heart.
Chocolate
The word chocolate can be traced back to the Aztecs, who called a cocoa rich drink xocolatl, which means “bitter water.”
Chocolate naturally has the same qualities as cocoa provide that its cocoa content is high enough. This means the chocolate should be dark and contain at least 70% cocoa, preferably more, in order to be healthy. Dark chocolate also contains cocoa butter (a healthy source of fat), sugar, lecithin, and vanilla. Added nuts are also healthy. Large amounts of chocolate are not necessarily healthier. This is due to the high sugar content.
Studies with dark chocolate indicate that small amounts of chocolate daily can keep the arteries elastic and improve the platelets’ function. Dark chocolate can also counteract diarrhoea and coughing.
Note
Do not give chocolate to your dog. The theobromine contained in chocolate is poisonous to dogs. Poisoning can cause vomiting and cramping. Large doses can damage the dog’s kidneys, heart, and nervous system. It is said that as little as 30 gr. dark chocolate can kill a small dog.
