Origin: Belgium
Mayans and Aztecs in South America used cocoa beans as a bargaining unit and considered it a sacred plant. Because of its mineral composition, a wide range of unique qualities, high levels of magnesium and a high concentration of antioxidants, cocoa is a powerful nutritional and healthy product.
Cocoa nuts are rich in many vitamins and elements. They contain over 200 compounds. They supply the body the necessary amounts of copper and potassium, which are important for a healthy cardiovascular system. On the other hand, magnesium and calcium contained in the beans care for the proper functioning of all major organs. Many studies have shown that cocoa beans are one of the best sources of antioxidants. In cocoa, they are many times more than in green tea, blueberries, red wine. Antioxidants are important because they protect cells from damage and premature aging, and besides this regulate cholesterol levels.
Cocoa improves metabolism, provides energy and makes the body feel cheerful and fresh. Because of the high content of tryptophan, cocoa beans instantly rise mood and act as a natural antidepressant. When we eat cocoa beans, in our body are released happiness hormones - endorphin and serotonin.
Nutrition value:
| Nutrition facts | for 100 g. |
| Energy | 464 Kcal |
| 1941 kJ | |
| Fats, | 43 g |
| of which saturates | 25 g |
| Carbohydrate, | 36 g |
| of which sugars | 0 g |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Fibres | 32 g |
| Sodium | 0 g |
Cocoa beans are contained in following NICS varieties:
