Let’s talk antioxidants – those tough defenders fighting to keep your body in tiptop shape. They’re your very own cellular bodyguards, tirelessly protecting against free radicals, aging, and all kinds of diseases.
But where do you find these health boosters? The answer is closer to your mug than you think: cocoa powder, a superhero ingredient in its own right.
Cocoa Powder: A Hidden Source of Antioxidants?
When you’re curled up with a steaming mug of hot chocolate, you’re not just indulging in a childhood comfort; you’re sipping on a powerful source of antioxidants. Surprised? Well, brisk up because pure, unsweetened cocoa powder is making waves for its antioxidant capacity, outdoing even that of tea and red wine!
Researchers at Cornell University unraveled this delicious secret, finding that our beloved hot chocolate, when made from pure unsweetened cocoa powder, boasts up to five times the antioxidants of tea. Yes, you read that right. This isn’t your average sweet treat; it’s an antioxidant superfood.
This study had the researchers comparing a cocoa drink to green and black tea, and red wine. And guess what? Cocoa powder left them all in the dust. We’re talking double the antioxidants of red wine, and up to five times that of black tea. The team spooned two tablespoons of cocoa powder into hot water, and voilà – a drink that’s not only comforting but incredibly healthful.
Here’s a fun fact: opting for a hot sip rather than a cold one unleashes even more antioxidant goodness. Cocoa is not just a decadent fix; it’s also full of iron, magnesium, and potassium.
But hold your horses, chocolate lovers. While cocoa powder antioxidants are the toast of the town, moderation remains key. A typical cup of hot chocolate (yes, even the healthier versions) can still pack calories and sugar.
As Professor Chang Yong Lee Ph.D. advises, indulge in that hot cocoa, but keep it occasional. “Although we know that antioxidants are important for good health, no one knows the exact daily amount that anyone needs… A cup or two of hot chocolate every now and then can be a delicious, warm and refreshing way to healthy to get more antioxidants.” It’ll be best to enjoy it as an easy add-on on your journey to wellness, a tasty way to sneak in antioxidants.
So, next time you reach for a comforting cup, remember, it’s not just warmth you’re sipping on, but a rich blend of cocoa powder antioxidants ready to do battle for your health. Cheers to that sweet, antioxidant-rich taste!
**Cette Boisson Adorée des Petits Comme des Grands Contient 5 Fois Plus d’Antioxydants Que le Thé**
This article first appeared on grazia.fr – Author: Luce Picat
