Cacao: A Natural Mood Booster
Cacao is the raw, unprocessed form of chocolate. It is made from cacao tree beans, which are native to Central and South America. Cacao is a rich source of antioxidants, minerals, and other nutrients that have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including improved mood.
I have been doing my own chocolate for a good while, those pieces are 1 kilo and last us 1 month. Everyday dessert!
One of the main reasons why cacao is so good for mental health is its high content of flavanols. Flavanols are antioxidants that can help improve blood flow to the brain. This can lead to improved cognitive function and a reduction in stress and anxiety. Cacao also contains serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation.
In addition to its mood-boosting effects, cacao has also been shown to have other benefits for mental health.
For example, it may help:
Reducing inflammation
Improve sleep quality
Boost energy levels.
If you are looking for a natural way to improve your mood, cacao is a great option. You can add cacao powder to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal or make your own cacao drink. When choosing cacao, look for products that are high in flavanols and hopefully sweetened with honey and very little.
What is the Difference Between Cacao and Commercial Chocolate?
Commercial chocolate is made from cacao beans that have been processed and refined. This process removes many of the nutrients and antioxidants that are found in raw cacao. As a result, commercial chocolate does not have the same health benefits as raw cacao.
In addition, commercial chocolate often contains high levels of sugar and unhealthy fats. These ingredients can contribute to weight gain, heart disease, and other health problems. It is not a healthy product.
If you are looking for a healthy and beneficial way to enjoy cacao, it is best to choose raw cacao powder or nibs. These products are unprocessed and contain all the nutrients and antioxidants found in the cacao bean.
Here are some tips for choosing raw cacao:
Look for products that are labeled as "raw" or "unprocessed."
Choose products that are high in flavanols.
Avoid products that contain added sugar or unhealthy fats.
Enjoying raw cacao is a delicious and easy way to improve your mood and overall health. So next time you are looking for a treat, reach for a piece of raw cacao instead of commercial chocolate.
Your mind and body will thank you!
With Love Pau!