We all know the fragrant cocoa drink since childhood.
Some future mothers believe that if it is not contraindicated for children, then during the bearing of the baby its use will not do any harm.
Today we will understand whether cocoa is available to pregnant and lactating mothers.
Is it possible for cocoa to pregnant and lactating mothers: general information about the drink
A dark brown spicy drink is prepared from a soluble powder, which in turn is obtained from fried chocolate tree beans. It grows in more than 10 countries.
Cocoa is a valuable energy drink rich in active nutrients. Its composition contains zinc, iron and folic acid in abundance. The trace element zinc is actively involved in protein synthesis. Iron plays an important role in the formation, development and maturation of blood cells. Folic acid is the most important vitamin for the normal functioning of the immune and blood systems.
The product contains epicatechin. This organic substance reduces the risk of diabetes and cancer, and also prevents heart attacks and strokes. The antioxidants contained in cocoa prolong youth and help maintain strength.
The drink also contains vitamins A, E, PP of group B, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, copper, phosphorus, calcium, fluorine. High calorie content of cocoa powder (100 g contains about 290 kcal) allows you to replace them with a meal.
Is it possible for cocoa to pregnant and lactating mothers: the benefits of a drink
Cocoa is an excellent substitute for coffee during pregnancy and lactation. Doctors believe that mothers should not get involved in this type of drink. Meanwhile, they are all convinced that with moderate use of cocoa, the body benefits.
1. Increases tone and gives energy. The drink contains a small dose of caffeine and the natural antidepressant phenylethylamine, which is due to its invigorating effect.
2. Cocoa promotes the release of "hormones of happiness." Endorphins are responsible for pleasure, joy and pleasure. They also have a mild antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. A cup of flavored cocoa helps to forget about problems and copes with a bad mood, which is so harmful for expectant mothers.
3. Stabilizes blood pressure. This property of the drink greatly helps pregnant women prone to hypotension.
4. It has a beneficial effect on the skin, increasing its elasticity.
5. Increases blood levels of antioxidants that are responsible for glucose metabolism
6. Helps in the fight against cough after viral infections and lung diseases.
Is it possible for cocoa to pregnant and lactating mothers: harm and contraindications
Despite the many useful properties of the drink, dietetic experts put cocoa on the list of harmful products for pregnant women.
1. Cocoa is a strong allergen. So that during pregnancy and lactation not to provoke the appearance of allergies in themselves and the baby, experts recommend not to abuse a tasty drink. It is believed that one or two cups of cocoa per week will not harm mom and baby.
2. Caffeine in cocoa can increase blood pressure. Therefore, the drink is contraindicated in women with arterial hypertension.
3. There is an opinion that the drink actively leaches calcium from the body. This trace element is very important for the construction of the baby’s bone tissue, so a pregnant woman who uses cocoa should take care of an additional source of calcium. This will avoid problems with nails, teeth and hair.
4. It is undesirable to drink cocoa for constipation. It contains tannins that will only worsen the situation.
5. Women with diseases such as diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis should drink the drink with extreme caution.
Is it possible for cocoa to pregnant and lactating mothers: methods of use
There are several ways to make cocoa. Consider the most popular of them.
Classic Cocoa
For the traditional way of making cocoa, you will need any milk: homemade, pasteurized or non-fat. If milk is fat, that it can be diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 1.
Take one liter of milk, pour into a saucepan and put on fire. Previously, in 200 ml of milk, you need to dilute 3 tablespoons of the powder, adding the same amount of granulated sugar. It’s very convenient to use a whisk for stirring cocoa. Pour the homogeneous mixture to the rest of the milk in a thin stream. The next time you cook, you can adjust the amount of cocoa and sugar, taking into account your taste preferences.
Stirring the milk thoroughly, bring to a boil. After 10-15 seconds, turn off the stove. Now the delicious drink is ready.
If you can’t drink cow’s milk, you can safely replace it with soy milk. In this case, bring the drink to a boil over low heat.
Quickly prepare one serving of cocoa
If you need to prepare only one cup of a fragrant drink, then you can use the simpler method. Pour half a cup of boiling water and add 2 teaspoons of cocoa. Mix thoroughly so that there are no lumps. Add sugar to taste and add boiled milk to the cup. Mix and enjoy the magnificent cocoa.
Cocoa with condensed milk
You can also make cocoa with condensed milk. A few tablespoons of condensed milk, pour a glass of boiling water. Next, add 2 teaspoons of cocoa and bring the drink to a boil. We put sugar at our discretion.
Cinnamon Cocoa
A small pinch of cinnamon, added during the cooking process, will give new notes to the drink. Spice will make cocoa taste much richer and richer. Gourmets in this drink are advised to add not only regular sugar, but also vanilla, which will give it a piquant softness.
Now you know whether cocoa is available to pregnant and lactating mothers. A gourmet drink will bring not only a lot of pleasure, but also benefit if you use it in moderation and in the absence of contraindications.
