As a nutritionist, you may be surprised to hear me encouraging you to eat more chocolate. But I’m not talking about just any chocolate – but rather its purest, unadulterated raw form; cacao.
The health benefits of cacao have been revered for many thousands of years, and is still a staple super food today. And the best part? It’s so good for you, you can even enjoy it for breakfast!
History of Cacao
The consumption of cacao dates back thousands of years to the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica, particularly the Mayan and Aztec people, who routinely used cacao in their spiritual ceremonies.
Cacao was believed to facilitate communication with the divine, induce altered states of consciousness, and promote physical and spiritual well-being. While we may not fully comprehend the depths of their spiritual experience, we can certainly understand the physical benefits now.
Health Benefits of Cacao
Antioxidant Power House
Cacao is recognised as one of the most antioxidant-rich foods on the planet, helping to protect the body from harmful free radicals.
Some of its notable flavonoids in cacao include Epicatechin, Procyanidins, Catechins, and Quercetin.
Rich Source of Nutrients
Additionally, cacao is a great source of magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, and potassium.
Difference Between Cacao and Cocoa
In the modern world, the manufacturing and processing industry has created an inferior twin known as cocoa.
Raw cacao, on the other hand, is unadulterated and made by cold pressing the fermented, unroasted cacao beans. This process ensures that cacao retains more of its natural antioxidants and nutrients.
Our raw cacao is ceremonial grade cacao, and is one step closer to what the ancient Mayans used, made from heirloom cacao varieties and processed using traditional methods to preserve the natural flavours and beneficial compounds of the cacao beans.
Cocoa, also known as Dutch Cocoa, is the cacao powder that has undergone an alkalising process, treating the beans with a solution of potassium or sodium carbonate. This reduces the pH level and natural acidity but also diminishes its nutrient and antioxidant profile. This is the cocoa familiar to us from our childhoods, readily available at the supermarket.
Enhance Nutrient Absorbency with Cacao
Did you know that by having cacao with certain super foods, you can enhance absorbency and effects?
For instance, having cacao with turmeric can improve the absorption of curcumin because some of the compounds in curcumin are fat-soluble and react with the fats in cacao. Biohack – have some cacao with our Well Being Blend!
Similarly, Reishi mushrooms have bioactives that are fat-soluble, resulting in enhanced adaptogenic properties when ingested with cacao.
How to Use Cacao Powder
You can reap the health benefits of cacao powder every morning simply by adding a spoonful to your favourite smoothie, yoghurt or drink.
Bake into bread, cakes, cookies or energy balls, or any recipe that calls for cocao.
Enjoy as a healthy hot chocolate and make a part of your nighttime routine. Try my Relaxing Chocolate Chai recipe too.
Try My Sugar Free Chocolate Bites Recipe
Try ditching the over-processed, highly sweetened chocolates this year and make your own super simple ones.
