What are the benefits of raw Cacao?
Cacao, the delicious bean that makes our beloved chocolate, is much more than just a gourmet ingredient. When eaten in its purest, unprocessed form, raw cocoa is packed with unsuspected health benefits. Combining gustatory pleasure with nutritional virtues, this gem from nature offers us a panoply of essential nutrients. In this article, we share with you the many benefits of raw cocoa and its various uses, so that you can easily incorporate it into your diet.
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What is raw Cacao?
Raw Cacao refers to cocoa beans that have not been roasted or treated at high temperatures. In the traditional chocolate-making process, the beans are roasted, which can lead to the loss of some of their essential nutrients. Raw Cacao, on the other hand, retains all its nutritional, enzymatic and antioxidant properties. Rich in magnesium, iron, antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals, it is considered a superfood. In addition to its nutritional benefits, raw Cacao has numerous health benefits.
Why eat raw Cacao?
Much more than a simple taste pleasure, raw Cacao is a real health panacea. Its preparation process, which does not involve roasting, preserves its precious benefits. From digestion and mood regulation to a generous supply of vitamins and minerals, raw Cacao richly deserves its place in your daily diet. Here are its nutritional qualities:
Digestive enzymes and fibre: Raw Cacao (unlike heat-treated cocoa) retains its beneficial enzymes, which aid digestion. It is also rich in dietary fibre, which contributes to digestive health, promotes satiety and regulates intestinal transit.
Essential fatty acids: It contains essential fatty acids that are good for the brain and the body in general. These fats can also help regulate the metabolism.
Source of Vitamin C: Raw Cacao retains some of its vitamin C content, a powerful antioxidant essential for skin, bone and immune health.
Neurotransmitter precursors: Raw Cacao contains precursors that help release certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which promote well-being and can act as natural antidepressants.
Minerals and trace elements: As well as the Magnesium and Iron mentioned above, raw Cacao is also a source of Zinc, Copper and Manganese. All play a crucial role in the body's health.
So incorporating raw Cacao into your diet not only delights your taste buds, but also offers a host of nutritional and health benefits.
What are the health benefits of raw Cacao?
Raw Cacao is renowned for its many health benefits, thanks to its wealth of beneficial nutrients. Here are its main benefits:
Rich in antioxidants: Raw Cacao is one of the richest sources of flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants. These help fight free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic disease, inflammation and premature ageing.
Source of Magnesium: Magnesium plays an essential role in many bodily functions, including bone health, energy production and muscle relaxation. Magnesium is also effective in cases of stress and anxiety.
Improves mood: Raw Cacao contains compounds such as theobromine and phenylethylamine, which can have a stimulating effect on the production of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin, thereby improving mood.
Good source of Iron: Iron is vital for the transport of oxygen in the blood. Cacao helps to make up for deficiencies and combat anaemia.
Promotes cardiovascular health: The flavonoids present in raw Cacao can help improve blood circulation, reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease.
Alkalinity: Raw Cacao is more alkaline than processed cocoa, which can help balance the body's pH, promoting better overall health and fighting inflammation.
Supports skin health: The antioxidants in Cacao can help protect the skin from damage caused by external aggressors such as pollution or UV rays, reducing the signs of ageing.
Stimulates brain function: Raw Cacao promotes blood flow to the brain, helping to improve concentration, memory and cognitive function.
How much raw Cacao should I eat a day?
The recommended daily amount of raw Cacao varies according to individual nutritional needs and state of health. However, in general, to enjoy the benefits of Cacao while avoiding over-consumption of theobromine (a compound found in Cacao), we recommend that you consume between 5 and 20 grams of raw Cacao a day. This is roughly equivalent to 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw Cacao nibs or powder.
It is important to note that Cacao can be stimulating for some people due to its caffeine and theobromine content. If you are sensitive to these substances, it is best to start with a small amount and monitor how your body reacts. As always, if in doubt, seek the advice of a health professional.
Spotlight on our nutrition and dietetics specialist, Raquel Barros
Passionate about nutrition and well-being, Raquel has made dietetics her profession, mainly out of a love for food and sharing her expertise. After graduating with a BTS and specialising in sports nutrition, it was working for a number of pharmaceutical laboratories that introduced her to the world of natural solutions (food supplements, oligotherapy, etc.). For a number of years now, she has been contributing nutritional guidance and writing articles to answer the questions of those looking for flavoursome solutions and further knowledge. Women's health, anti-inflammatory food, sport and a balanced diet are just some of her favourite subjects.
