Superfood — Raw Cacao (Cocoa) Powder
Health Benefits of Raw Cacao (Cocoa)
Powder Cacao is one of nature’s most fantastic Superfoods, one of the highest antioxidants. Cacao was considered the “food of the Gods”. Raw cacao powder has polyphenols, catechins, epicatechins, is loaded with minerals like magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, and some iron. Other nutrients are Omega 6 Fatty Acids, Tryptophan, and Serotonin, the “feel good” natural ‘ chemicals. Flavonoids are known to help the body produce nitric oxide, to support the heart function and circulation. Cacao is the highest antioxidant is known, higher than red wine, blueberries, acai, pomegranates, and goji berries.
If cacao (cocoa or chocolate) is used properly, it can be a super-nutritious food. Antioxidants have been long known to protect against free radicals. Free radicals can cause cancer and systemic damage to the organs.
If cacao is mixed with a low glycemic sugar such as coconut, stevia, xylitol, Lo Han etc., it has a superb taste and becomes a very healthful food. It will not overstimulate your pancreas to produce insulin and thus cause a blood sugar problem. Stay away from chocolate products that contain a lot of sugar, artificial ingredients, and/or artificial sweeteners. Higher quality chocolate products are available in health food stores, also some German and Swiss chocolates are of higher quality, as they come from pasture-fed cows and don’t contain artificial ingredients. However, they still contain dairy, if you have a sensitivity to dairy, look for dairy-free alternatives.
The best cacao desserts are the ones you make yourself, as you can select the quality ingredients along with the raw organic cacao. I have provided two “easy-to-make” recipes for you to experiment with. You may also just add a tsp. of cacao powder to your protein shake. Before a workout, it can boost performance, esp. if mixed with Maca Root and Cordyceps mushroom powder (nicknamed “The Endurance Trio”, so named after it helped some Chinese athletes win top Olympic medals).
Stop by our office and take the “raw cacao taste and smell test” vs. the conventional, alkali processed and heated variety.
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YOU WON’T BELIEVE THE DIFFERENCE