Cocoa is known for centuries as one of the healthiest and the most useful natural superfoods. A regular consumption of cocoa bean products is linked to better brain function and heart function. Health benefits of cocoa embrace normalizing blood pressure and preventing hypertension, lowering bad LDL cholesterol levels and this way preventing serious related cardiovascular problems, as well as stimulating our digestive function and lowering the risks of suffering from diabetes. In addition, cocoa beans are known as very rich natural sources of antioxidants, special compounds that can act on cellular level and slow down the processes related to aging.
According to the findings of a recent research, there are connections between a regular consumption of cocoa and reduced risks of developing such common type of cancer as colon cancer. The study carried out by a group of experts of the Science and Technology Institute of Food and Nutrition in Spain, was focused on the reaction of lab rats exposed to tumor causing chemical compounds on day-to-day treatment involving consuming cocoa powder.
On the first stage of the trial, one group of the rats was given cocoa-rich diet for 12 weeks, and another group was given a diet containing no cocoa.
Then, all the rats started being exposed to azoxymethane, a carcinogen which is known for its property to cause colon cancer. After the first four weeks, the rats started showing the first signs of developing colon cancer. However, the scientists could see clearly that the rats from the group which was receiving a cocoa-rich diet have showed less signs of intestinal cancer compared to the rats from the control group. The further research focused on the benefits and effects of cocoa-rich diet on humans has already been scheduled.
‘Foods like cocoa, which is rich in polyphenols, seems to play an important role in protecting against disease,’ Dr Maria Arribas, one of the study leaders and the author of the report said. The study was the first of its kind and a great deal of nutritionists underlined the important of establishing proper links between colon cancer and cocoa consumption. At the same time, they war that consuming too much of such popular cocoa product as chocolate is linked to unwanted side effects since chocolate is rich in saturated fats and is high in calories. Those who are interested in health benefits of cocoa can read more about this study in the latest issue of Molecular Nutrition and Food Research.
Author Info: Hi! My name is Carla and I am a 5th year medical student at HYMS. I am interested in alternative medicine and I have done months researching the topic of herbal medicine. Besides, I like interviewing people and learning more about their experiences with one or another type of herbal treatments. I am willing to contribute to this site with my knowledge, and I would be happy to help you out to the best of my ability with any specific questions or problems related to alternative medicine.
