Holy Cacao!!
About a 3 minute read
Mmmm, chocolate. Yes, it can be good for you!
Living a healthy lifestyle isn’t about deprivation and cranky moods. To me, life without chocolate would be pure torture. Last time I tried to “quit” chocolate, I lost the hearing in my left eye. OK, I’m kidding of course, but that’s what it felt like! Thankfully, you can nourish your body with chocolate and be healthy at the same time. And yes, chocolate can even have a place in your diet if you’re trying to lose weight!
The most important thing to know is that all chocolate is not created equal. It’s all derived from cacao, which has some amazing health benefits. However, the way it’s processed will determine whether it is healthy, and much of it isn’t (which I’ll get into in a minute). So let’s start with the basics.
Here are three great health reasons to nibble on cacao:
Raw cacao is one of the most antioxidant-rich foods there is. Its flavonoids prevent free radical damage and prevent premature aging.
Cacao increases blood flow to the brain, which has been shown to improve brain function and memory.
Cacao stimulates the production of endorphins, the feel good chemicals in your brain that are known to elevate your mood.
That all sounds pretty good to me!!
Just beware: Cacao is a Superfood, Cocoa is Not.
The Latin name for cacao trees means “food of the gods.” But a few letter changes can mean a world of difference.
Raw cacao powder is made by cold-pressing un-roasted cacao beans. Cocoa powder is created by roasting the beans at high temperatures, and while some think may improve the taste, doing so significantly decreases its nutritional value.
If you want to create a rich chocolate taste, use organic, raw cacao powder whenever you want to make a chocolate shell, chocolate frosting, or any other chocolate delight. And of course, enjoy it in moderation.
When you buy either cacao powder or dark chocolate, choose wisely. Read the label!
Lower quality chocolate is usually full of sugar and packed with a ton of extra calories. And who knows what else is in there? Artificial flavourings, preservatives…
If you want to stay healthy or lose weight while eating chocolate, you must choose the right kind of chocolate, and again, enjoy it in moderation.
Organic dark chocolate with a 70% or higher cacao content is your best choice. And be sure to check the ingredients for added sugar. I love to nibble on a piece of good quality extra dark chocolate whenever I want a small indulgence. I take really small bites and savour it, letting its richness satisfy my senses. When I eat a piece of high-quality dark chocolate that way, I’m satisfied with just a little bit. Yes, it costs a bit more, but eating just a little bit at a time means it lasts a whole lot longer. For me that makes it worth the extra cost.
Our focus for August in the Habitudes Facebook Group is Nourish, where we’re exploring all the different ways we need to nourish our body, mind, and spirit. And while nourishment isn’t just about food, let’s face it - we’ve got to eat! As a member of the group, make sure to check out my Mid-Week Mmmmm posts every Wednesday, where I share some pretty luscious, healthy, and easy to make recipes with Cacao, our superfood of the month. (What? Not a member yet? No worries, just click HERE to join!)
I look forward to sharing more information this month about ways to nourish yourself. In the meantime, grab a piece of that lovely dark chocolate, savour it slowly, and let it boost your health - and your mood!
Have a health of a day,
Juli