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Natural Growth: Reaching heights of up to 10m, adorned with large, oblong-pointed leaves. In cultivation, adjustments are often made to maintain a manageable height, typically not exceeding 5-6m for ease of fruit harvesting. The flowers of this plant bear distinctive characteristics, measuring approximately 1-2cm and are either white or light pink in color.
The fruit resembles small pumpkins, with a diameter of about 10-15cm and is encased in a thin outer shell. Normally, the fruit appears green or bright red when ripe, but upon harvesting, it turns into a dark brown hue due to natural fermentation.
Characteristics of Cacao Fruit (Source: Internet)Benefits of Cacao Powder
Cacao, post-harvest, is typically processed into fine powder for various purposes. Below are some notable benefits of this powder for health:
Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease
Cacao seeds are rich in flavonoids, polyphenols, and theobromine. These compounds help reduce levels of bad cholesterol in the blood, limit blood pressure spikes, and enhance blood vessel function.
Two studies in Sweden have shown that consuming about 19 - 30 grams of chocolate per day may help prevent heart failure better. However, exceeding the recommended intake may lead to undesired side effects. This demonstrates that using products from this plant, especially dark chocolate, can effectively protect your heart.
Cacao Offers Benefits in Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease (Source: Internet)Cacao Aids in Reducing Airway Obstruction
Currently, there is still limited research demonstrating the efficacy of this in reducing airway obstruction. However, this plant has effective functions in improving respiratory system function and reducing symptoms of chronic lung diseases such as asthma.
Compounds in this fruit help limit oxidative cell damage, enhance immune function, and reduce inflammation in lung diseases. Additionally, theobromine - a compound that helps dilate blood vessels in the lungs, thereby increasing blood and oxygen flow to organs and cells in the body.
Assists in Lowering Blood Pressure
Cacao seeds contain abundant flavonoids and polyphenols. These compounds reduce blood pressure by dilating blood vessels and enhancing circulatory function. This discovery was first noted in islanders consuming this powder in Central America. Those who regularly consume the powder have been found to have significantly lower blood pressure than non-consumers.
According to another study published in the Heart journal, consuming dark chocolate with high flavonoid content can significantly reduce blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.
Cacao Powder Helps Effectively Lower Blood Pressure (Source: Internet)Aids in Reducing Bad Cholesterol Levels
Cacao
Several studies have indicated that using products from this fruit, especially dark chocolate, can effectively control bad cholesterol levels in the blood. According to research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, consuming dark chocolate over an extended period results in a significant decrease in LDL levels in the blood.
Anti-Aging Skin Benefits
Within the composition of these seeds lie numerous antioxidative agents such as Vitamin E, flavonoids, and polyphenols, providing protection to the skin against the harmful effects of free radicals and other damaging agents. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition has demonstrated that prolonged consumption of dark chocolate can reduce skin dryness and limit the formation of wrinkles.
Moreover, the compounds present in this fruit also stimulate and enhance the production of collagen and elastin naturally for the skin, rendering it softer, more elastic, and youthful.
These seeds aid in preventing premature aging of the skin (Source: Internet)Alleviating Body Fatigue
Another notable function of these seeds is to alleviate body fatigue. Within the seeds of this plant lie abundant nutrients such as magnesium, iron, calcium, and vitamin E, which provide energy, maintain health, and function of the body. Additionally, the fruit of the plant also contains antioxidative compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols, providing protection to the body against the harmful effects of free radicals and other damaging agents.
Improving Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Cacao may help improve symptoms of type 2 diabetes. Several studies have indicated that using products from this plant, especially dark chocolate, can improve insulin function and reduce blood sugar levels. According to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, consuming dark chocolate over a sufficient period of time can reduce blood sugar levels, thereby helping to prevent complications of type 2 diabetes.
Cacao Helps Reduce Complications Caused by Type 2 Diabetes (Source: Internet)Enhances Mental Function
These seeds contain magnesium, fiber, flavonoids, and caffeine that stimulate nerve cells and enhance brain function. A study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology has shown that consuming dark chocolate can reduce stress and improve mood effectively. Additionally, this fruit also stimulates the production of serotonin and endorphins in the brain. These are beneficial compounds for the nervous system, reducing pain sensations and generating feelings of happiness and comfort.
Improves Blood Flow to the Brain and Brain Function
Components in the seeds such as flavonoids, polyphenols, caffeine, and theobromine also stimulate blood circulation and reduce constriction of blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow to the brain. Several studies have shown that using products from this fruit can increase brain function and enhance memory.
This fruit also helps increase dopamine production in the brain, reducing fatigue and enhancing mood, and effective concentration.
Cacao powder enhances dopamine production in the brain (Source: Internet)Treating Constipation, Insect Repellent
For treating constipation, this fruit contains fiber, especially soluble fiber, which effectively absorbs water and softens stools, making it easy to pass, avoiding constipation. Additionally, the fruit also contains gut-stimulating substances, enhancing bowel movements, increasing digestive fluid secretion, thereby maintaining intestinal health.
Regarding its insect repellent properties, compounds like caffeine and theobromine in the fruit effectively repel insects and inhibit the development of these creatures. Additionally, the plant also contains polyphenols and flavonoids, providing antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Weight Control
These seeds aid in weight control due to their fiber, protein, magnesium, and antioxidant content. These compounds help reduce appetite, limit fat absorption, and effectively control weight.
A large-scale study found that individuals who consume dark chocolate regularly have a lower BMI despite consuming more calories and fats than other groups.
Cacao effectively aids in weight control (Source: Internet)Cancer Prevention
Cacao has cancer-fighting properties due to nutrients inside the seeds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechins. These are all antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components, preventing the growth of cancer cells and reducing the risk of cancer effectively. A study published in the Cancer Prevention Research journal also demonstrated that consuming dark chocolate reduces the risk of digestive tract cancer.
Some Side Effects of Cacao
While cacao offers numerous health benefits, excessive or improper consumption can lead to the following side effects:
- Some individuals may experience allergic reactions such as redness, itching, rashes, and headaches.
- The caffeine in this fruit acts as a stimulant. Therefore, excessive consumption can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and jitteriness.
- Chocolate can cause tooth decay if proper oral care is not maintained.
- Some users of cocoa butter applied topically may experience rashes.
Cacao may induce allergic reactions, causing red rashes (Source: Internet)Important Considerations When Using
Although cacao rarely causes serious side effects, you should still consider some important points before using this food:
- Ensure that your body is not allergic to cocoa powder to maximize its benefits.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly while using the powder. Avoid using this fruit for individuals with conditions such as colitis, heart disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Avoid exposing pets to products containing this powder as it is toxic to dogs and cats.
- Consult a doctor before use if you have chronic medical conditions.
Consult a doctor if you have chronic medical conditions (Source: Internet)Frequently Asked Questions
Cocoa offers a plethora of health benefits and is recommended for daily consumption in appropriate doses. We hope these insights from Mytour have shed light on the effects of this plant on the body. Remember to visit Mytour regularly to stay updated on the latest news!
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