How to use cocoa fiber every day?

We primarily associate fiber with a plant-based substance, which is abundant in cereal products, whole-grain bread, cereals and bran, and dried fruits . It helps regulate bowel function and supports the digestive process, preventing constipation and helping to cleanse the digestive tract by removing unnecessary and residual food debris. However, few people associate fiber with cocoa , and it turns out that it is also a valuable source of cocoa. Let's look at how we can use cocoa fiber every day and what health benefits it brings.

What is cocoa fiber?

Cocoa beans contain up to 40% fiber , which is obtained through their processing, i.e., roasting, cleaning, mechanical grinding, and sterilization. These processes result in a fine, homogeneous, and water-insoluble powder, similar in appearance and aroma to natural cocoa . Cocoa fiber contains pectins, cellulose, and hemicellulose, as well as polysaccharides, i.e., complex carbohydrates:

• glucose
• Galactose,
• Mannose,
• xylose,
• Arabinose.

Properties of cocoa fiber

We can replace cocoa fiber with cocoa powder. Fiber contains much less fat, so products containing cocoa fiber instead of regular cocoa have fewer calories. Because the fiber doesn't dissolve in water and bind to it, it swells in the digestive system. This gives us a feeling of fullness and fills the intestines and stomach. This can effectively contribute to facilitating the weight loss process. Cocoa fiber has a beneficial effect on our body because it:

• Anti-diabetes,
• Antioxidant,
• Lowering bad cholesterol levels,
• Supporting the slimming process thanks to the activation of enzymes involved in the breakdown of fatty tissue,
• regulates the digestive tract, supports intestinal peristalsis,
• does not significantly increase the calorie value of the meal,
• supports the development of “good” intestinal bacteria.

The use of cocoa fibers

The use of cocoa fiber powder is simple and versatile. Because it has a positive effect on our body and regulates bowel function, it's worth using every day in the kitchen and adding it to various types of meals. If we want to reduce the calorie content of dishes that usually contain cocoa, we can successfully replace it with cocoa fiber. At the same time, it's a product so versatile that we can add it even to drier dishes. Cocoa fiber is a perfect addition to dishes such as:

• Porridge,
• Cake,
• muffins and cookies,
• Cakes, pancakes and pancakes,
• Milk, fruit and vegetable cocktails,
• sorbets,
• mousse,
• Yogurt,
• Sauces

To experience the beneficial effects of cocoa fiber , it is sufficient to consume a maximum of 15 grams, or about three tablespoons, daily, and remember to drink the optimal amount of water. Cocoa fiber should not be used by people who are intolerant or allergic to cocoa.