Nutrition
Benefits of chocolate
Antioxidants
Dark chocolate contains several compounds that possesses antioxidant properties, such as flavanols and polyphenols. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals and prevent oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress refers to the damage that excessive amounts of free radicals can inflict on cells and tissues in the body.
Oxidative stress contributes to the natural aging process. Over time, the effects of oxidative stress may also contribute to the development of a variety of diseases.
Heart disease risk
Regularly eating dark chocolate helps reduce a person’s likelihood of developing heart disease. Some of the compounds in dark chocolate, specifically flavanols, affect two major risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Blood pressure
The flavanols in dark chocolate stimulate nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to dilate, or widen, which improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure.
Cholesterol
Dark chocolate also contains certain compounds, such as polyphenols and theobromine that may lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the body and increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Doctors often refer to LDL cholesterol as “bad cholesterol” and HDL cholesterol as “good cholesterol.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Inflammation is part of the body’s natural immune response to germs and other harmful substances. However, chronic inflammation can damage cells and tissues and may increase the risk of some health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and certain types of cancer.
Dark chocolate contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Insulin resistance
Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells stop responding to the hormone insulin. Insulin resistance can cause abnormally high levels of blood glucose, which can lead to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Brain function
Eating dark chocolate may improve brain function and help prevent neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
The findings of a small 2018 study Trusted Source suggest that the flavanols present in dark chocolate may enhance neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to reorganise itself, particularly in response to injury and disease.
Nutrition
Benefits of fresh cow milk
COW milk is a nutrient-rich milk produced by cows that has been a dietary staple for
humans for centuries. It is known for its rich source of essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, vitamins (B12 and D), and minerals. Cow milk is considered healthy for many individuals, providing benefits for bone health, muscle repair, and overall growth.
– Promotes strong bones
Cow milk is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, both of which are essential for maintaining bone density and strength. Regular consumption of milk helps prevent bone disorders like osteoporosis, especially in older adults, as it supports healthy bone development and repair.
– Boosts muscle growth and repair
Cow milk is rich in high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an ideal post-exercise drink to help with muscle repair and growth. The protein in milk also helps sustain muscle mass, which is important as we age.
– Supports heart health
Cow milk contains potassium, a mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure by balancing sodium levels in the body. Drinking milk may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by promoting optimal heart function and regulating blood pressure.
-Aids in weight management
The protein and fat content in cow milk can promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake by keeping you full for longer. Additionally, studies have shown that the conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) found in milk may help reduce body fat in some individuals.
– Improves hydration
Cow milk is composed of approximately 90 per cent water, making it a hydrating beverage. Along with providing essential nutrients, milk helps to maintain fluid balance in the body, which is important for overall cellular functions and metabolism.
Source: www.ndtv.com/ health
Nutrition
Waagashi
Waagashi is a type of West African cheese made from cow milk. It is commonly made by the Fulani people, especially those from Northern Benin.
Ingredients
-1 bottle of fresh cow milk
-2 cups of apple cider vinegar
-Sorghum leaves for skin colouring (optional)
Preparation
-Mix fresh cow milk with apple cider vinegar and leave it for sometime.
-Put the mixture on fire at low to medium heat until the milk forms completely.
-Then strain in a colander to remove all the water and your cheese is obtained.
-Soak cheese obtained in cold water for a few minutes (5-10 minutes).
-After removing the cheese you can optionally dip it in boiled red leaves.
-Boil the cheese in the red solution for 10-15 minutes. (Depending on how one wants the red to look).
Serve the fried Wagashi with the West African Suya spice.
