Pure Raw Cacao & All Its Glory: The Magic of Hot Cacao-late.
Cacao is the raw, unprocessed form of chocolate and is a nutrient-dense superfood that has been consumed for thousands of years in various forms. It is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and minerals, and has a range of health benefits. Cacao has been a stable in my kitchen for many years, it’s a part of my morning ritual and has become a tradition for me. It reawakens my soul, and I cannot get enough of it.. slightly addicted.
If you’re wondering why I’m mentioning Cacao in today’s journal entry and wondering “What does Cacao have to do with sound frequencies?” Cacao has been used in various spiritual and ceremonial practices for centuries, particularly in South and Central America. The use of cacao in these practices is believed to have originated from the ancient Mayans and Aztecs, who considered cacao to be a sacred plant with powerful healing properties.
One of the reasons cacao is used in sound meditations and ceremonies is because it has a naturally uplifting and heart-opening effect on the mind and body. It contains theobromine and phenylethylamine, two compounds that can help to stimulate the release of endorphins and dopamine, the feel-good chemicals in the brain. This can help to create a sense of relaxation, euphoria, and emotional connection, making cacao an ideal complement to practices like sound meditation, where participants are seeking to connect more deeply with themselves and the world around them.
So, besides helping your brain reach euphoria, what are other benefits of Cacao?
What’s helped me most by making Cacao become my everyday drink is the magnesium intake it has. 499 mg per 100g. That’s 130% more than our daily intake. It’s helped me with my symptoms related to hormonal issues, it’s been a source of comfort when my headspace wasn’t feeling so well, and it’s been a replacement for caffeine so I no longer have any jitters.
Other benefits include:
Heart Health: Cacao is rich in flavonoids, which have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease. Flavonoids help to lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation, all of which contribute to better heart health.
Mood and Brain Function: Cacao contains compounds that can help to boost mood and cognitive function. It contains theobromine, which is a natural stimulant that can increase energy levels and improve mental clarity. Cacao also contains phenylethylamine (PEA), a compound that can help to stimulate the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones in the brain.
Weight Management: Cacao can help to support healthy weight management by reducing cravings and promoting satiety. It contains fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full for longer, and it also contains compounds that can help to reduce inflammation, which is a key factor in weight gain.
Skin Health: Cacao is rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It also contains compounds that can help to improve blood flow to the skin, which can help to promote a healthy, glowing complexion.
Blood Sugar Control: Cacao can help to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. This is due to its high magnesium content, which is essential for insulin function and glucose metabolism.
If you’d like to try incorporating Cacao into your morning or evening routine here’s a quick and easy recipe to a delicious hot cacao-late:
Ingredients:
1 cup of your choice of milk
1 tablespoon of cacao powder
1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
In a small pot, heat milk with cacao and sweetener.
Stir with a whisk/frother until boils.
Pour into your favourite mug and enjoy!
