The Health Benefits of Cacao

The Health Benefits of Cacao
April 1, 2017 jp
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF CACAO

With Easter just around the corner, we felt there was no better time than now to share a little info about the health benefits of cacao and why we prefer it to cocoa products.

So exactly what is the difference between cacao + cocoa?

The cocoa tree, “Theobroma cacao”, produces a fruit which is often referred to as “cocoa pods”. Inside the pods is a fruit which looks and tastes similar to lychee, and cocoa beans. These pods are hand-picked and cracked open to harvest the cocoa beans.

Cacao refers to the various food products, which are made from the pods, including cacao nibs, butter, paste or powder. The processing of the cocoa pod or bean can turn it into either cocoa or cacao, depending on how it is processed. Raw cacao is made by cold pressing the unroasted cocoa bean, which in the process separates cacao butter. Cocoa is formed from a different process, which involves roasting the pods at high temperatures. This process, in turn, changes the molecular structure and therefore alters the nutritional value of the bean. Less processing and heating results in higher antioxidants and greater overall nutritional value.

Not only does cacao taste amazing, but studies have shown that cacao offers a huge range of nutrients and health benefits. Cacao helps to protect your bodies cells and offers a great source of serotonin and dopamine, which help alleviate depression and stabilise mood. It is rich in flavonoids and offers nearly 4 times the amount of antioxidants as Goji Berries! It is also rich in minerals such as magnesium, (which is part of the reason people crave chocolate, usually they are magnesium deficient!), and it is also rich in calcium, zinc and iron as well as a range of trace minerals.

We designed our Cacao Chai with these amazing health benefits in mind, to help satisfy your chocolate cravings while keeping the best intentions for your health. We have combined raw organic cacao powder with aromatic spices of star anise, cloves, cinnamon and cardamom, to create the perfect blend of chai and hot chocolate. The perfect Easter treat.

 

MAILING LIST