Notes on using cocoa powder properly

Side effects to note of cocoa powder

No one denies the benefits of cocoa powder. But cocoa contains caffeine. Therefore, consuming large amounts of cocoa can cause side effects such as nervousness, increased urination, insomnia, and heart palpitations.

In addition, high ca  can cause allergic skin reactions, constipation, and possibly migraine headaches. It can also cause reactions such as nausea, vomiting, and gas. vapor. Some people who use cocoa butter topically may experience a rash.

Note about the side effects of cocoa for the following specific subjects:

• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: cacao contains caffeine but is POSSIBLY SAFE for women during pregnancy and feeding. However, you should only use   in moderation. Keep track of your daily cocoa consumption. Consuming large amounts of cocoa during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. Some experts recommend consuming less than 200mg of caffeine per day during pregnancy.
  The concentration of caffeine in breast milk is about half the concentration of caffeine in the mother's blood. Therefore, if you eat too much chocolate (about 450g/day), breastfed babies may become irritable and have frequent bowel movements.
• Anxiety: There is concern that consuming large amounts of cocoa could make anxiety disorders worse.
• Bleeding disorders: cocoa may slow blood clotting. But consuming large amounts of cocoa can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising in people with bleeding disorders.
• Cardiovascular: Caffeine in cocoa can cause arrhythmia or heart palpitations in some people. Therefore, people with heart disease should not take it.
• Diabetes: The consumption of cocoa may increase blood sugar and affect glycemic control in people with diabetes.
• Diarrhea: Consuming cocoa in large quantities can cause diarrhea.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): cocoa seems to interfere with the effectiveness of the valves in the esophagus and may make symptoms worse.
• Glaucoma: Caffeine in cocoa increases pressure in the eye. People with glaucoma should use caution when using cocoa.
• High blood pressure: Caffeine in cocoa may increase blood pressure in people with high blood pressure. However, for people who have a habit of consuming large amounts of caffeine, cocoa may not cause the symptoms. image above.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): The caffeine in cocoa, especially when taken in large amounts, can make diarrhea worse and worsen symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Migraines: The consumption of cocoa can cause migraines in people who are sensitive to caffeine.
• For bones: Caffeine in cocoa can increase the amount of calcium excreted in the urine. Therefore, people with osteoporosis should use caution.
• Surgery: cocoa may affect blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop taking these foods at least 2 weeks before your scheduled surgery.

Notes when using cocoa powder

Don't just focus on the benefits of cocoa powder but forget about the things that affect the results of using cocoa powder:

The first problem is the quality of the product

You should make sure that you  are not allergic to cocoa  before using it.

You should monitor your blood pressure while taking cocoa. Avoid cocoa for heart disease, colitis and irritable bowel syndrome .

Avoid do not let pets contact  with cocoa-containing products because this is toxic to dogs and cats.

Regulations for cocoa trees are less stringent than those for pharmaceuticals. Further research is needed to determine the safety of cocoa. The benefits of using cocoa should be weighed against the possible risks before use. Consult your doctor or physician before using cacao.