Chocolate and Delicious

Do you know what the Mayans and the Aztecs had in common 2000 years ago?

Cocoa! 

On this day of the National Cocoa we love to talk about how delicious cocoa powder is along with how good it can be for you.

Cocoa powder worked its way through Mexico into the New World and Europeans.  Eventually cocoa became very popular and in the wintertime transformed into hot cocoa.

Hot cocoa is the perfect drink for the winter if you’ve been out skiing, hiking or skating. In truth, it’s a really great winter drink for anyone who wants to warm up.

We are talking about hot cocoa made from cocoa powder.  Hot chocolate is very different as it’s made from cocoa butter and not as healthy. 

Cocoa is low in calories and fat and high in polyphenols.  Polyphenols are found in plants and act like antioxidants. 

Antioxidants help you lower your cholesterol, reduce inflammation and lower your blood pressure.  All good and tasty too.

You can make a homemade hot cocoa recipe very easily with just three ingredients:

1-½ TBSP Ghirardelli 100% cocoa powder (60-70% is minimum to use for benefits)

1-½ TBSP Sugar (Stevia or Erythritol & Monk Fruit for a healthy sugar substitute)

1 c milk (Choose your favorite)

Whisk it all together and heat the milk until hot.

(Courtesy of thrivinghomeblog.com)

Private Home Health Care is ready to make a cup of hot cocoa on this chilly New England Day.  We hope you’ll enjoy a cup one of these winter days too.