A dose of strong and antioxidant energy, to start the day positively, is sought after by those who can no longer imagine their life without a sip of coffee. There are quite a few who combine it with milk, to avoid sugar and soften the bitter taste. But have you thought about trying it with a few spoonfuls of cocoa?
It is already scientifically proven that coffee promotes intestinal function, as it is rich in antioxidants. “THE polyphenols of coffee can nourish the beneficial bacteria in the intestine, promoting their growth and activity and limiting the action of harmful bacteria,” notes gastroenterologist Dr. Joseph Salhab. When combined with cocoa, the antioxidant activity multiplies and cocoa has a high content of polyphenols.
Oxidative stress and imbalances in the gut microbiome are thought to be key factors in gastrointestinal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, which causes symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, bloody stools, weight loss and fatigue, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. disease prevention. .
According to a recent study, published in Antioxidants, polyphenols can moderate oxidative stress, promote bacterial diversity in the gut, and improve the body’s immune responses.
Another important property of coffee with cocoa which helps the functioning of the intestine is the high content of vegetable fibres. One tablespoon of cocoa powder contains 2 grams of fiber, achieving part of your goal of 25 to 38 grams of fiber per day by adding a tablespoon or two of cocoa to your morning cup of coffee.
After all, according to a study published in Microorganisms, the digestive tract needs fiber to keep the intestinal microbiome healthy.
Beneficial bacteria ferment prebiotic fibers to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help maintain a balanced immune response in the gut» adds gastroenterologist Dr. Sarah Robbins.