5 Health Benefits Of Raw Organic Cacao: Superfood Is Packed With Antioxidants, Calcium, Iron, And More
Raw organic cacao has been dubbed the newest trendy “superfood.” It is a healthy, unprocessed product from the same cocoa plant that chocolate comes from.
Nutrient-rich raw cacao is available in the form of crushed “nibs” or powder, and both can be used a natural sweetener or added to smoothies, oatmeal, acai bowls, and vegan baked treats. We’ve listed five health benefits you’ll experience by adding this powerful superfood to your diet, with information aggregated from Be Good Organics and Women’s Health UK.
HEART HEALTH
Hundreds of years ago, the Aztecs reportedly knew the cardiac benefits of cacao. According to Dr. Joseph Mercola’s website, they dubbed the plant “yollotl eztli,” which means “heart blood.”
A 2009 study found that eating cocoa is associated with reduced risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. The superfood is bursting with magnesium, which is important for a healthy heart and helps turn glucose into energy.
CHOLESTEROL
Raw organic cacao has over 40 times the antioxidants of blueberries. These antioxidants come from the plant’s surplus of flavonoids and can result in increased good cholesterol — called HDL — in the blood.
IRON
Wow. Cacao is the highest plant-based source of iron known to man. Iron is essential for healthy blood and it also aids with distributing oxygen throughout our bodies.
CALCIUM
Are you under that impression that cow’s milk is the best source of calcium? Think again. Raw organic cacao has even more of this necessary nutrient.
MOOD ENHANCER
Have you ever heard that chocolate makes you happy? Cacao has the same effect on the brain without added preservatives, dairy, or the sugar of a candy bar.
Cacao contains a compound called phenylethylamine (PEA). The benefits of PEA are thought to include elevated mood and increased energy. The plant also offers mood-boosting serotonin, dopamine and anandamide.
* This article was originally written and published on http://www.medicaldaily.com/5-health-benefits-raw-organic-cacao-superfood-packed-antioxidants-calcium-iron-409647
