At the base of some foods that we all love is that fantastic substance that is cocoa. Chocolate comes from its processing, but we also take it in many other forms. In desserts, bought or prepared at home, like in this one good and quick recipe, in cappuccino and in many other ways.
Intoxicating in all its forms for our taste buds and our mood. But despite the taste and the positive effects, be careful, you should eat little cocoa if you use these medicines because otherwise it could be harmful.
It cocoa
The cocoa tree is called Theobroma, a name derived from the Greek and meaning food of the gods. A name we can all agree with.
Cocoa is native to Central and South America. Already used by pre-Columbian civilizations, it arrives in Europe following the discovery of America and the action of the conquistadors.
The fruits of Theobroma, the so-called cabosse, have a shape similar to large almonds. Inside there are the seeds, that is the cocoa beans, from which the cocoa we know is obtained through different stages of work.
Attention you should eat little cocoa if you use these medicines because otherwise it could be harmful
We often use and consume cocoa, but then basically we know very little about it, we ignore what it contains and whether it can have side effects or not.
As reported by Humanitas, the consumption of cocoa would release endorphins, substances produced by our brain capable of relieving pain and instilling a feeling of well-being.
So actually the positive effect we get when we eat it is not our impression.
Inside the cocoa, however, it would also contain neurostimulating substances, that is able to enhance the activity of the nervous system, such as caffeine. And it is precisely in the presence of the latter that we must pay attention, since in association with some drugs it would not be recommended.
From what we learn from Humanitas, in some cases, it would be necessary to limit the intake of cocoa.
People taking asthma medications should eat little, as caffeine may increase the activity of bronchodilators.
But not only that, the recommendation also applies to those taking high blood pressure medications. In fact, some of the latter should slow down the heart rate while caffeine would tend to increase it.
Furthermore, since analgesics and anti-inflammatories also contain caffeine, it would be preferable not to increase the dose by consuming cocoa.
Given the presence of caffeine obviously cocoa would not be a cure-all even for those who suffer from tachycardia.
Having discovered some characteristics of cocoa will certainly not limit our boundless love, but will allow us to use it more wisely and carefully in certain situations. In addition, also considering the high caloric value, about 355 calories per 100 g, keeping from eating too much could reveal other positive aspects.
However, we remind you that the above information does not in any way replace the opinion of a doctor. It is very important to always rely on the opinion of our doctor who will not fail to advise us in the best possible way for our health.