The Important Difference Between Hot Cocoa and Hot Chocolate

by Darren Craddock

These terms are often used interchangeably, but the distinction is in the nutritional properties. Hot cocoa is made from raw cocoa powder, which is pressed chocolate which removes the fat of the cocoa butter. Hot chocolate is made from chocolate bars melted into a cream or ground into a powder. Often hot chocolate has a very high sugar and fat content and low cocoa content. The nutrition in Healthy hot Cocoa can be very good for you, especially if you minimize the sugar and fat. It seems as though we are not the first to understand that Hot cocoa has proven health benefits. 

Powerful nutritional benefits in a delightful beverage

Nowadays people are discovering the powerful nutritional benefits of the cocoa bean. Recent research has found that the flavonoids in chocolate are more powerful than vitamins such as ascorbic acid in protecting circulating lipids from oxidation. And researchers discovered that people who eat chocolate and sweets up to three times each month live almost a year longer than people who eat too much or folks that steer clear of junk altogether. (This is from a study done at the Harvard School of Public Health)

Are you Drinking Real Cocoa or just a Flavored Substitute?  

Don't settle for fake hot chocolate when you can have real delicious hot cocoa. Hot cocoa powder not only tastes better it is so much better for you. The best way to make sure you are getting the real deal is to start with quality cocoa powder. The best cocoa powder is dark brown and will taste bitter. 

You can make your own hot beverage by mixing this powder with hot water or just like when you were a kid: real milk. Milk substitutes like: soy milk, coconut milk or rice milk are great for those who are lactose intolerant or who just want to try something different. 

Researchers have labeled Cocoa powder "the new vitamin."

 Health experts are discovering that some of the chemicals in cocoa powder can have a positive effect on the heart and blood circulation. 

Eating a moderate amount of sweets pays off.

Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health found that eating chocolate or other sweets several times each month live nearly one year longer than individuals who over indulge in sweets and even people who eliminate eating junk food altogether.

A study done by Cornell researchers, headed by Chang Y. (Cy) Lee, states that the reason cocoa won out over the other drinks is because of its high concentration of phenolic phytochemicals, or flavonoids. These flavanoids indicate a high level of antioxidants that perhaps prevent cancer, reduce the risk of heart disease and other health issues. Dr Lee said "Phenolic compounds protect plants against insects and pathogens, and they remain active even after food processing."

Get your antioxidants the fun way

Drinking hot cocoa powder provides more antioxidants than simply eating chocolate candy. The heat releases more of the antioxidants. Some research indicates that ingesting dairy along with cocoa inhibits the absorption of the nutrients. You can get the most nutritional value by combining cocoa powder with a milk substitute like: coconut milk, soy milk, rice milk or even water. 

Easy way to boost childrens immune response

Kids love hot chocolate. Now you can give them real hot cocoa without a shred of guilt. Don't waste your money on those fake chocolate packets! Give your family a healthy drink that you can feel good about. Hot cocoa is a great way to get nutrition while feeing devilishly decadent.

Now you really can give into your chocolate cravings and drink a cup of cocoa everyday - just for your health!  Try this Cocoa mix, Cocoa Mojo made with organic Cocoa and organic coconut palm sugar, the low glycemic alternative,