Cocoa and Coffee: A powerful blend for brain and mood boost
Coffee with added cocoa is not only a delicious combination but also a beverage full of health benefits. Discover how to prepare this unique drink and learn about its properties.
For many people, the morning isn’t complete without a cup of coffee. Caffeine not only wakes you up but can also be enriched with additional health benefits. In a recent TikTok video, health expert Dr Karan Rajan and dietitian Corey Rodriguez highlighted the advantages of "food synergy" – combining certain ingredients to enhance their health properties.
Cocoa in coffee – how does it work?
Corey Rodriguez explained: "If you add cocoa to your coffee, the caffeine from the coffee and theobromine from the cocoa work together to improve mood, alertness, and mental clarity." It’s important to understand the difference between cocoa powder and raw cacao. Raw cacao, available in health food shops, is less processed than cocoa powder and retains more nutrients, offering a richer flavour.
Cocoa or raw cacao?
Cocoa powder, commonly found in supermarkets, is more processed and often contains artificial additives. Raw cacao is considered a healthier option due to its lower level of processing, but both products provide benefits when consumed in moderation.
Research has shown that polyphenols found in cocoa can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases by enhancing brain function and blood circulation. These compounds are also linked to improving blood sugar levels. However, processing and heating cocoa can lead to the loss of these beneficial properties.
Raw cacao as a superfood
Experts from Healthline consider raw cacao a superfood with some of the most potent antioxidant properties. Cocoa acts as an anti-inflammatory, lowers blood pressure, raises good cholesterol levels and reduces bad cholesterol, and also offers cognitive benefits. With mood-enhancing and antidepressant effects, cocoa is excellent for brain health.
