Cocoa is often called the food of the gods. Beans contain a large amount of nutrients, so a drink from such a product has a beneficial effect on the human body. Hot cocoa with milk has tonic properties and a pleasant taste. This aromatic drink can be present in the diet of pregnant women, but it must be consumed in small quantities.
The popular children's cocoa drink has an unforgettable taste. The scalding liquid, flavored with sugar or cinnamon, warms up and gives strength. The amazing composition of cocoa makes it especially beneficial for pregnant women. However, when drinking the drink, the presence of contraindications should be taken into account.
Benefits of cocoa for pregnant women
Cocoa contains a huge amount of vitamins, minerals, organic acids. So, cocoa beans are rich in calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, vitamins B, E, PP, beta-carotene, folic acid and other substances important for the health of a pregnant woman. Cocoa drink gives vigor, helps to forget about fatigue.
Pregnant women can and should drink cocoa, because the product contains the natural antidepressant phenylethamine. Therefore, the drink helps to cope with stress, insomnia. Due to the presence of antidepressants in the composition, cocoa helps to strengthen the immune system. Cocoa beans normalize blood pressure, help heal wounds and have a beneficial effect on the skin.
A drink made from cocoa powder reduces the viscosity of the blood, and this product also has a mild diuretic effect. Cocoa improves brain function. Despite the caffeine content, the drink is less harmful for pregnant women than coffee or black tea. It is worth drinking cocoa for expectant mothers in the morning so as not to disturb sleep.
Potential harm to cocoa during pregnancy
Doctors advise drinking cocoa in small amounts during pregnancy because cocoa beans are strong allergens. Do not forget about the possible individual intolerance, cocoa can cause a strong allergic reaction in comparison, for example, with citrus fruits. Cocoa allergies can also be provoked in a baby in the future, therefore, during pregnancy, no more than two cups of cocoa per day should be consumed per day.
Cocoa powder drink is not recommended for people with high blood pressure. Low caffeine content can negatively affect the well-being of the expectant mother. Drinking cocoa with caution during pregnancy is also worth it because this product helps to flush out calcium from the body. Therefore, a woman may face a substance deficiency.
Cocoa contains purine; when consumed in large doses, this component can lead to the accumulation of uric acid. Due to the fact that sugar is usually added to cocoa, the product is not recommended for diabetic patients with excess weight. And if you are plagued by doubts about the presence of cocoa in the diet, you need to consult a gynecologist. Also, pregnant women need to be careful about the quality of the drink; it should not contain dyes, flavors and other harmful additives.
