Science has long recognized cacao; the foundation of all chocolate as a superfood; even giving it the name ‘theobroma’ which literally means ‘food of the gods’. So how does this unique and beautiful tropical fruit, native to Central and South America, gain such a reputation?
Let’s dive into the core, incredible properties of raw cacao
Chocolate only contains very trace amounts of caffeine, but instead has a more sophisticated cousin, theobromine in large quantities. Theobromine stimulates our smooth muscle while caffeine goes straight to the central nervous system. This can energize in a less abrupt and intense way. Best of all, theobromine is a vasodilator which means it increases blood flow. Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor, reducing our blood flow and creating circulation issues in many people. If physical performance is necessary there is no comparison.
Raw Organic Cacao has over 40 times the antioxidants of blueberries. Yes 40 times! It has an amazing ORAC score of 98,000 per 100g, vs blueberries at a mere 2,400. ORAC scores measure the ability of antioxidants to absorb free radicals (that come from pollution and toxins in our environment), which cause cell and tissue damage and can lead to diseases such as cancer.
On a plant-based/vegan diet and looking for iron? The search is over! Cacao is the highest plant-based source of iron known to man, at a whopping 7.3mg per 100g. This compares to beef and lamb at 2.5mg, and spinach at 3.6mg. Note the iron in cacao is non-heme (as is all plant-based iron), so to get the maximum benefits you’ll want to combine it with some vitamin C.
Raw Organic Cacao is also one of the highest plant-based sources of magnesium, the most deficient mineral in the Western world. Magnesium is important for a healthy heart, and helps turn glucose into energy enabling your brain to work with laser-sharp clarity and focus. The reason why you might turn to a bar of chocolate during an all-nighter at your desk!
Raw Organic Cacao has more calcium than cow’s milk would you believe, at 160mg per 100g vs only 125mg per 100ml of milk.
Cacao is a great source of four scientifically proven bliss chemicals – Anandamide (literally translates to ‘bliss molecule’!) serotonin, tryptophan, tyrosine and phenylethylamine. These neurotransmitters are associated with cosy feelings of wellbeing, happiness, and can even alleviate depression. Anandamide is one of our brains’ native endocannabinoid compounds that works on our central nervous system. Supplements like CBD are used to encourage the brain to produce more of these compounds found in high quantities in cacao.
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