Given its amazing array of health benefits it is not surprising that the traditional name for Cacao translates as “Food from the Gods”:
1) Cacao contains anandamide that affects blood pressure and sugar level which creates the sensation of excitement and represses feelings of depression. Cacao also aids in increasing the level of serotonin in the body, acting as an anti-depressant; thus, the sense of bliss people feel after taking cacao products.
2) Cacao contain four times as many anti-oxidants compared to goji berries and ranks at the top of ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) scale which assess the effectiveness of the anti-oxidants.They are a great help in preventing coagulation of blood; dilating blood vessels and lowering of cholesterol levels; thus greatly reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Having a high concentration of anti-oxidants also mean cacao beans are effective in fighting the aging process caused by free radicals.
3) Cacao is a great source of minerals, especially magnesium and sulphur. Magnesium helps in detoxification and the regulation of many body processes. Sulphur helps to promote strong bones and hair and a healthy pancreas.
Before you start pouncing on your chocolate to get your fill’s worth, remember the golden rule that cacao does not equate to chocolate. Most chocolate contains a very low level of cocoa extract and the nutritional value is most likely stripped off during the refining process. Furthermore, sugars, milk fat and artificial flavourings are added to chocolate.
Far better would be to source some organic raw cacao and get creative in the kitchen. Talented raw food chef Kirsten Suzanne’s Ultimate Vegan Raw Chocolate cookbook is an excellent place to start. As one happy reader commented, “I highly recommend this book to all healthy eaters. This book is filled with phenomenal information, tips, techniques and recipes.”
Side Effects of Eating Cacao
Moderation is key to consumption all food and cacao is no exception. In excess, it can have undesirable side effects thanks to the theobromine and oxalic acid which it contains.
Theobromine is used as a vasodilator (a blood vessel widener) and a diuretic and its potential use in cancer prevention is currently under research but nonetheless taken in excess it can lead to theobromine poisoning (it is this chemical which makes chocolate so dangerous for dogs). Oxalic acid inhibits calcium absorbtion so it is not something that you would want to over-indulge in.
Even so, the rich and healthful properties of raw cacao make this a very desirable superfood to add to your regular diet. Just don’t overdo it. The best way to benefit from the rich nutrients in cacao is by using organic cacao powder that does no go through too many refining processes. You can replace your morning coffee with hot cacao drink. Do not ingest more than 40 grams of cacao powder which is around 4 to 6 tablespoons.
