Making a Healthy Hot Cacao

Sometimes a cup of cacao is all that is needed to turn your blues around! Ancient civilizations of people such as the Mayans, Aztecs and Olmecs recognized the special medicinal properties of cacao. It was so valuable to them that cacao beans were a form of currency. They drank the bitter unsweetened chocolate drink mixed with spices such as chili pepper, to treat inflammation along with various diseases relating to the heart and liver. Cacao is considered to have exceptional nourishing qualities, promote longevity and even have aphrodisiac properties. To these ancient people, cacao was known as the “Food of Gods.”

Now many years later scientists have put cacao to the test in clinical research trials and are uncovering its health benefits. Cacao powder and dark chocolate are rich in flavonoids and polyphenols which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research conducted by University of California Davis found that the antioxidants in cacao reduce oxidative damage to lipids. Additional research has also shown that a cacao powder drink rich in flavonoids improved blood pressure and cellular dysfunction in people with heart disease. Clinical trials have even shown that participants report increased calmness, contentedness and improved anxiety and depression from drinking dark chocolate. But to be clear, these studies are not using milk chocolate or other refined chocolates which are high in refined sugar and fat. In addition to antioxidants, cacao is also rich in iron, magnesium and other minerals such as zinc, manganese, copper and chromium.

So on a cold winter’s day or just any time you are feeling a bit down and are in need of a mood boost, make yourself a delicious special hot chocolate treat, or smoothie, made with raw cacao. It will certainly lift your spirits.

What is wonderful about making your own hot cacao is that you can obtain the health benefits from a therapeutic grade chocolate, but you can also avoid the artificial flavors, colorings, refined sugar, tranfats, gluten, soy and artificial sweeteners such as aspartame found in many commercial hot chocolate mixes. Raw cacao can be over stimulating for some. It does contain some caffeine which might cause health symptoms in some people who are slow caffeine detoxifiers.

Click here for my easy hot cacao recipe to help you stay warm and enjoy the rest of the winter! I love to make mine while listening to the Chocolat soundtrack.

Making Real Delicious Hot Cacao! Yum!

If you would like to create a more vibrant and healthy life and need personal support and assistance to help you get started, please contact me today! I can help you 866-330-5421. Services are provided nationally via telephone sessions.

Thank you very much for reading my blog and please continue to visit often.

I wish you good health, happiness and love!

Danielle

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