Besides putting you in a feel-good mood, they increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and enhance blood flow to the brain. Just two tablespoons of natural cocoa have more antioxidant capacity than 3 ½ cups of green tea, ¾ cup of blueberries and 1 1/3 glasses of red wine.
Mix cocoa with protein rich milk and you'll get 16 grams of protien to repair the muscle you just tore down. The cocoa also has 6 grams of fiber, and a chemical called theobromine which acts like caffeine for another energy kick! Try my recipe for a powerful post-workout recovery drink that will have you sprinting for the blender!
Cocoa Moo
1 1/2 cup Calorie Countdown non-fat milk by Hood
4 frozen chocolate milk ice cubes (make ahead of time)
2 level Tablespoons dark cocoa unsweetened powder
2 Splenda
* Blend until smooth and thick
