Did you know cacao is a superfood?  Superfoods are foods that contain significantly higher quantities of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and other health-boosting, anti-aging, disease-fighting goodies. Cacao, the seed of a fruit of an Amazonian tree, is one of the highest antioxidant foods on the planet – higher even than green tea and red wine!

Why Add Cacao Into Your Diet:

1. Cacao has more calcium than cow’s milk.

2. It’s the highest plant based source of Magnesium.

3. It’s scientifically proven to reduce inflammation, better blood flow, lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

4.  Unlike cocoa, cacao is a raw food and retains its enzymatic and vitamin content.

5. Raw chocolate improves cardiovascular health and supports strong bones.

6. Cacao in its pure form (not as a chocolate bar) is a healthy fat source.

7. Raw organic cacao powder has 40X the antioxidants than blueberries.

8. Cacao is an excellent source of trace minerals including iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.  It’s also a great source of vitamin D.

9. It’s a great mood booster and proven to increase serotonin, tryptophan, tyrosine and phenylethylamine.

Now that you’re convinced adding the superfood cacao into your diet is a must, here are some ideas on how.  Keep in mind pure cacao is NOT the same as eating a chocolate bar. A traditional chocolate bar is usually filled with dairy, processed sugars, gluten and artificial flavors.  Here are some healthy ways to enjoy the benefits of cacao.

Ways to Enjoy Cacao:

• Add 1 tablespoon to your morning smoothie.

• Make homemade hot chocolate with one scoop, hot water and your favorite nut milk.

• Add to any healthy baking recipe, try my Cacao Gluten Free Banana Bread.

• Make  homemade vegan chocolate bars with cacao, coconut oil & maple syrup.

• Add cacao into your overnight oats recipe.

• Sprinkle cacao into your morning fruit and yogurt bowl.

Stay tuned for more recipes and inspiration using the superfood cacao!