A hot drink that protects your heart and brain... Get to know it
ArabiaWeather - Cocoa is considered a uniquely delicious and nutritious drink, and is characterized by multiple health benefits, which makes it a popular drink for many people, especially in the winter, as consuming cocoa contributes to warming the body and enhancing energy levels, which makes it an ideal choice during cold periods in addition to In addition, cocoa has a rich composition of essential nutrients that contribute to supporting general health.
Benefits of cocoa
Cocoa has multiple health benefits for the body, and its importance becomes more apparent during the winter season. The theobromine found in cocoa is considered a stimulant that increases blood flow to the extremities, which contributes to warming the body in the cold season. In addition, cocoa contains caffeine, which acts as a stimulant and increases Energy and activity levels.
Additional health benefits from cocoa come from antioxidant flavonoids, which improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety. These compounds also play a role in promoting cardiovascular health, as they help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
It is also worth noting that flavonoids contribute to enhancing brain health, as they protect brain cells from damage, and reduce the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s. In addition, cocoa contains antioxidants that enhance skin health, protect it from sunlight, enhance skin elasticity, and rejuvenate the skin. Its cells.
Ways to prepare hot cocoa in a healthy way
Hot cocoa is considered one of the delicious drinks loved by many, especially during the winter. Here are two ways to prepare this delicious drink in a healthy way:
How to prepare cocoa drink with liquid milk:
To prepare 4 servings:
the components:
- Half a cup of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- 3 cups of milk.
- Half a cup of boiling water.
- A quarter cup of white sugar.
- Half a teaspoon of vanilla.
- Whipped cream for garnish.
Method:
- Put water in a pot on the fire and wait until it boils.
- Mix cocoa powder and sugar in a bowl, then place it in the pot of boiling water.
- Leave the mixture until it boils over the heat, stirring constantly, for about two minutes.
- Heat the milk in a separate pot until it is warm, then add vanilla and divide the milk into 4 cups, each containing 3/4 milk.
- Add the cocoa mixture to each cup and stir to combine with the milk.
- Decorate your hot cocoa drink with cream and enjoy the taste.
How to prepare cocoa drink with cocoa mixture
To prepare 3 servings:
the components:
- 2 cups of powdered milk.
- A quarter cup of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- A quarter cup of sugar.
- Half a cup of creamy bleach.
- A teaspoon of flavorings (optional).
Method:
- Mix powdered milk, cocoa powder, sugar, creamer, and flavorings (if you wish to use them) in a large bowl, until the ingredients are completely combined.
- Keep the mixture in an airtight glass container for later use.
- Place 3 tablespoons of the powder in a cup, then add 3/4 cup of hot water over the mixture.
- Stir the mixture well until it dissolves completely, and enjoy your hot cocoa.
Tips for preparing hot cocoa in a healthy way
To prepare hot cocoa in a healthy way, you can follow the following tips:
- Avoid using ready-made cocoa mixture
It is preferable to avoid using ready-made cocoa drink mixes, as they usually contain large amounts of sugar and starch, which increases calories and reduces health benefits.
- Choose raw, unsweetened cocoa
Use natural, raw cocoa, free of added sugar and artificial additives, for richer flavor and greater health benefits.
- Reduce the amount of sugar or replace with artificial sweeteners
It is preferable to reduce the amount of added sugar in the cocoa drink, or replace it with artificial sweeteners that have fewer calories, to enjoy the delicious taste without the excess sugar.
- Use skim milk
Choose to use skim milk instead of whole milk, for delicious flavor without the extra fat.
- Alternate with almond milk or coconut milk
Replace cow's milk with almond milk or coconut milk to get fewer calories, and it is a suitable option for people who suffer from milk allergies or are lactose intolerant.
- Use fat-free cream
When decorating, use skim cream or dark chocolate sprinkles instead of heavy cream, to maintain a delicious taste with less fat.
By following these tips, you can prepare hot cocoa in a healthy and delicious way at the same time.
Read also:
Reasons and benefits that will make tea your favorite drink in the summer
Hot or cold drinks... Who keeps you warm in the winter?
Sources:
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