Raw cacao is the purest form of chocolate one can consume. Whether consumed in powder form, as cacao nibs or cacao beans, it is far less processed than its heated and treated cocoa counterpart. Raw cacao contains an impressive list of vitamins and minerals including magnesium, iron, chromium, manganese, zinc, copper, vitamin C, phosphorus and calcium and is rich in antioxidants. Today we share 5 reasons you should be incorporating this ‘super’ food into your diet every day!
- It will help keep you looking young.
Raw cacao contains more antioxidants than any other food (antioxidant laboratory analysis confirms that there are over 25,200 antioxidants in a single spoonful of our raw cacao powder). By weight, it contains more than blueberries, red wine, goji berries and pomegranates COMBINED! Because of the high levels of antioxidants, raw cacao has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve overall heart function and circulation, and is associated with anti-ageing and longevity.
- It can help you feel relaxed and ease tension in the body.
Raw cacao is rich in magnesium which is key for relaxation and healing of the muscles throughout the entire body. Magnesium fights acid buildup, neutralises toxins, calms sensitivity to pain, quiets nerves, builds strong bones and teeth and is essential for many other functions.
- It will boost your energy without caffeine.
Raw Cacao contains theobromine which is a cardiovascular stimulant, increasing heart function and blood flow with about one quarter the stimulating power of caffeine. Theobromine dilates the cardiovascular system making the heart’s job easier. Theobromine gives you a natural high without the crash!
- It helps to decrease stress on the body.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is transformed into important stress-protective neurotransmitters including serotonin and melatonin. Tryptophan is heat sensitive and therefore it is “cooked out” in conventionally processed chocolate. There is at least 33% more when you use raw cacao.
- It helps to improve your mood.
Raw cacao also contains the ‘bliss’ chemical Anandamide. Anandamide works to increase mood and decrease depression, but it is not addictive like caffeine nor does it have any undesirable side-effects. Anandamide is also called “chocolate amphetamine” as it causes changes in blood pressure and blood-sugar levels, leading to feelings of excitement and alertness.
Article by Kavisha Jega
Kavisha is a wellness educator working in social media marketing, content creation and recipe development for health and wellness businesses. She has a background in Marketing, a Masters Degree in Wellness and an unhealthy obsession with Matcha.
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