Health & Fitness

Ceremonial Cacao Benefits

Ceremonial Cacao

What do you picture when you hear the word Ceremonial Cacao? If you’re like most people, you probably think of chocolate, or maybe even hot chocolate. But there’s more to Cacao than just yummy candy! Cacao seeds have been revered as ceremonial gifts and coveted as currency since recorded history! Read on to learn more about this fascinating commodity-rich in antioxidants and potential health benefits.

 Phenylethylamine

The natural plant chemical called Phenylethylamine or PEA triggers activity in our brain and nervous system, giving us energy and making us feel good. Ceremonial Cacao contains a small amount of PEA that has been shown to reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being by increasing serotonin levels in our brains. Because serotonin is associated with mood balance, Cacao can help make us feel happier.

Curbing Hunger

As we all know, feeling hungry is not very fun, but thanks to its healthy fat content—20% by weight—Cacao has a high caloric density and can keep hunger at bay without adding too many calories. Try pairing it with nuts (also high in healthy fats) for an extra punch of nutrition!

Tryptophan

In addition to being an antioxidant, Tryptophan is a sleep-promoting amino acid. Chocolate, which is basically made up of sugar and Cacao, contains tryptophan, making it one of nature’s best relaxants. The perfect chocolate ratio: 70% Cacao (the higher end of dark chocolate) to 30% sugar. This ratio balances out chocolate’s naturally stimulating effects on mood with its relaxation potential.

 Teeth

Theobromine in Cacao is not only a strong antioxidant, but it also boosts dental health and protects teeth against cavities by neutralizing plaque acids. Theobromine also stimulates gustatory-sensory nerves that lead to saliva secretion, so people who eat Cacao regularly have more excellent salivary flow rates than non-consumers. This leads to more frequent washing of food particles from teeth and a lower risk of cavities. Additionally, Ceremonial Cacao contains no sugar or fat, making it more appealing than other snacks that are high in calories or saturated fats.

Digestion

One of Ceremonial Cacao’s most recognized benefits is that it contains serotonin, which gives it mood-boosting properties and makes it a good choice for emotional eaters. In addition to being known as an appetite suppressant, Cacao also has some protective qualities for your digestive system. Research suggests that Cacao helps balance microflora in your gut, which in turn promotes good digestion and immunity.

Heart Health

Whole cacao beans are rich in antioxidants, which have been shown to lower bad cholesterol, reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. Eating Cacao may also help control blood pressure, protect against diabetes and decrease your risk of heart disease.

 Antioxidants

Antioxidants found in Cacao have been linked to decreased cancer risk by helping to stop free radicals from damaging healthy cells. Many other antioxidants found in whole Cacao also possess anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce pain and improve mobility for arthritis sufferers. As a bonus, these antioxidants may help boost brain function too!

 

 

Ceremonial Cacao
Image source: Pexels

 

 

Brain Health

Research has shown that cacao consumption enhances memory, focus and overall brain health. Ceremonial Cacao can increase blood flow to your brain by up to 30 per cent in as little as 15 minutes, making it a perfect pre-workout boost or mid-afternoon pick-me-up. It’s also been shown to stimulate new neuron formation, improve cognitive abilities, and reduce Alzheimer’s risk.

Improved Circulation

Another benefit of Ceremonial Cacao is improved circulation and nitric oxide production. These are key in reducing the pain and symptoms of angina. Good circulation also lowers blood pressure and heart rate, making Ceremonial Cacao a good choice for atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries). It may even help fight the hardening of arteries related to diabetes. Ceremonial Cacao also stimulates the production of serotonin, a hormone associated with positive moods.

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