A Brief History Of Cocoa

The Pleasures And Promises Of Cocoa - A Healthy Surprise

Just like many discoveries, the cocoa bean was little understood and certainly under-appreciated in the early years. Although it is believed that Columbus found the cocoa bean nestled in a vessel full of fruit, the use for this bean was a mystery. It was just a few years later, however, when Cortez realized the value of the cocoa beans.

But long before Cortez landed in Mexico, the cocoa bean had formed a part of the culture of the Aztecs who used the bean for worship in religious ceremonies. Through centuries, this bean had become an important part of the life and livelihood of the people. The cocoa bean during this time was most often consumed as a drink - xocolatl - which was a stimulant enjoyed by the Aztec people. As word of this drink was spread by Cortez and Montezuma, the beans were almost like gold.

As recipes developed and became more complex, the original xocolatl changed. Experimentation resulted in hardened cakes of cocoa, some sweetened and flavored with spices. These changes led over time to many of the products we know today.

We are still a little mystified by cocoa. There is an entire industry built around the desire or, dare I say, addiction to cocoa, more often called chocolate at this point. The chemical complexity is still not fully understood, which leads to even more mystery. The stimulating effects of cocoa are widely believed, so there is no debate there. Just how this translates to healthy benefits is another story.

Aside from the stimulants, many people are finding cocoa to be beneficial in several ways. Of course, we are looking at real pure cocoa and not sugar-laced chocolate. Here's what we have learned.
Just looking at nutrition, cocoa is low in calories and fat, but high in dietary fiber, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and even protein. 

Antioxidants are the name of the game, and cocoa is definitely a player. With over 40 mg of flavonoids per gram (part of the powerhouse family of polyphenols), cocoa contains one of the highest amounts of this antioxidant of any group in its class. This saturation of antioxidants may help reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and pre-mature aging caused by those destructive free radicals.

Consuming raw cocoa powder may also help increase blood flow through the arteries, lower blood pressure, help improve brain function and memory, reduce LDL cholesterol, and elevate HDL cholesterol. Cocoa also contains the substance phenethylamine, which is a substance in the brain responsible for mood elevation and fighting depression. Cocoa also boosts endorphins, which is the substance in the brain responsible for the  natural "high" we feel when exercising. Cocoa may also boost serotonin, which is another substance our brain needs to feel good.

By the sounds of things, it looks like the Aztecs were on to something. The stimulant effect of cocoa is well documented. Montezuma consumed large quantities of cocoa as a way to boost his mood and libido. The results from that time are not well documented, but modern science seems to have proven the ancient claims of health and well being from this little bean. No matter what, none of us can argue the attraction or, perhaps, addiction, of cocoa. It definitely is worth a taste... for our health, of course!