Cacao

Superfood Cacao

Superfood Cacao!

If you take out dark chocolate's extra sugar content, you are left with the good stuff - pure unadulterated cacao.

Cacao has more than 300 beneficial compounds and is believed to be a super beneficial medicine. 

The bad news here is that many of the products made from cacao destroy their beneficial qualities through processing, cooking, or refining them. Did you know that most milk chocolate bars, for example, are more sugar and hydrogenated oils than they are cacao? Try and look for high levels of cacao and a minimum of processing.

Studies have shown Cacao to increase the levels of neurotransmitters that specifically help us feel happier and give us a positive outlook on life. The cacao benefits include:

Serotonin: Raw cacao increases the levels of serotonin and acts as a natural antidepressant.

Endorphins: Cacao also increases the secretion of endorphins which leads to a sense of well-being.

Anandamide: This is sometimes referred to as the 'bliss' chemical. Raw cacao has a compound that increases the levels of anandamide in the brain and enzymes that slow the breakdown of anandamide. This helps to give us longer periods of relaxation.

Phenylethylamine (PEA): This natural compound is made and released by the brain when we are in love. PEA is an antidepressant, mood elevator and helps to increase our levels of alertness and focusing abilities.

I'm off to make a smoothie with banana, almond milk and cacao!

I hope you have enjoyed this information. Until next time!

Emma Alexander-Cook.