September 13, 2017
Chocolate has always been a weakness of mine, but long gone are the days of overindulging in milk chocolate because dark chocolate has taken its place. So instead of reaching for that candy bar full of milk and sugar opt for some dark chocolate with 70% cacao content or higher, because this superfood has some great health benefits.
The Benefits of Eating Chocolate
Cacao is the active ingredient in chocolate that gives it all the wonderful health benefits, it is produced in a way that protects it from damaging the nutrients. It can be found as a powder or as cacao nibs, or in dark chocolate. Cocoa appears the same but is very processed, it has been cooked at high temperatures which takes away from the nutritional value. It is usually packed with sugar which is what you will find in milk chocolate. So if you decide to ditch the milk chocolate, but still want that chocolatey flavour give dark chocolate a try. Once you get used to a less sugary and sweet bar you might start adding cacao into your diet in other ways too, and here is why..
Craving Something Sweet?
You don’t have to overindulge because dark chocolate is actually quite satisfying for those cravings, and you don’t have to eat the whole bar. Dark chocolate will leave you feeling satisfied without having to consume too much sugar and fat.
Mood Enhancer
There is a reason chocolate is a comfort food, helping to release those good feeling endorphins when consumed, increasing our serotonin levels, no wonder we reach for a bar when we’re feeling down.
Nutritious
Cacao is also known to be a great antioxidant and also includes some important minerals such as Iron, Zinc, Manganese, and Magnesium. These minerals are good for the immune system, the heart, and the muscles.
Brain & Heart Healthy
Researchers have discovered cacao actually improves blood flow to the brain and can enhance brain function. It can also help lower blood pressure making it heart healthy too.
So now we know all chocolate isn’t all bad, and that it does have some amazing health benefits, it does however have some caffeine. Although the caffeine content is much lower than coffee, it can still have a stimulating effect. It is also high in calories, so being mindful of your consumption is important.
Try adding some raw cacao to your smoothies, desserts, or even your coffee!
This photo was taken in Antigua, Guatemala at the Choco Museo, where I learned the process of growing and making cacao beans into chocolate – so much fun and so delicious!
