
CACAO
Cacao. The little Amazonian tree that produces chocolate, beans is called a cacao tree. its scientific name, means “food of the Gods.” For ages, cocoa was used as medicine by the Aztecs and Mayans. The cacao tree is now found in tropical areas worldwide. Before being turned into cacao or cocoa powder, cacao beans undergo fermentation to acquire taste and texture.
CACAO
Making chocolate also begins with fermenting and roasting cacao. Although raw cacao has a bitter flavor, it is frequently ground into a powder that may be added to other dishes since it is a very high source of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.
1. reduces blood pressure

Flavonoids, which are abundant in cacao powder, have been demonstrated to help lower blood pressure, enhance blood flow to the heart and brain, and help avoid blood clots.
2. lowers the risk of diabetes
Your risk of developing diabetes may be reduced by the antioxidants in cocoa and cacao, which may alter how your body reacts to insulin. If you already have diabetes or prediabetes, research suggests that the flavonoids in cacao may also help with insulin resistance or alter how your body metabolizes glucose.
3. reduces the risk of heart disease

Research has connected increased blood nitric oxide levels to the flavanols found in cocoa and cacao. Your blood flow is improved by the nitric oxide’s ability to relax your arteries and blood vessels. Additionally, studies have demonstrated that cacao lowers inflammation and LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol, which may lessen your risk of heart attack or stroke.
4. lessens inflammation
it’s powder that is high in flavanols may help lower inflammation, according to some research. To find out if it also means it reduces the likelihood of illnesses that cause chronic inflammation, however, more research is required.
5. enhances the way the brain works

A particular flavonoid found in it are called epicatechin, it may improve blood flow and cognitive function, among other aspects of brain health, and reduce the risk of dementia. But before we can make that determination, further research is required.
6. Improves performance
Because of their ability to affect how your body uses nitric oxide, it’s flavanols may improve your physical performance. Cycling enthusiasts who consumed dark chocolate used less oxygen and recovered more readily than those who did not, according to a tiny research. But more extensive research is required.
7. Packed with polyphenols

Polyphenols are found in cocoa. Antioxidants called polyphenols are found naturally in foods like fruits, vegetables, tea, chocolate, and wine. Numerous health advantages, such as decreased inflammation, lowered blood pressure, and enhanced heart health, have been connected by researchers to polyphenols. Flavanols, which are found in cocoa, have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Summary
Reduced inflammation, better heart and brain health, and blood sugar and weight management are some potential health benefits of cocoa powder. Keep in mind that chocolate still contains large amounts of sugar and fat, so it’s best to consume it in moderation. For more information, consult a physician.