Chocolate can be a wonderful superfood! But the problem is a lot of commercial chocolate you buy is full of things that are best avoided… such as hydrogenated vegetable oils, sugar, additives, preservatives, colours, flavour, powdered milk solids, protein isolates, and much more.
There is a lot of exciting research about raw cacao,and the benefits of the cacao bean and dark chocolate. The benefits are abounding including protection to the vascular system, heart and brain,lowering blood pressure and creating clarity of mind. Cacao is abundant in antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and many unique properties. The flavanols can improve cognitive impairment and produce nitric oxide with some great cardiovascular benefits.
Cacao is rich in antioxidants which protect the body from aging and diseases caused by free radicals and oxidation. Cacao contains twice the antioxidant content of red wine, and up to three times that of green tea.
The ORAC Score measures the benefits of antioxidants. Here is a comparison of the ORAC score per 100 grams for some common foods known to have a high antioxidant level, listed in descending order.
• Dark Chocolate – ORAC 13,120
• Milk Chocolate – ORAC 6,740
• prunes – 5,770
• Raisins – 2,830
• Blueberries – 2,400
• Blackberries – 2036
• Kale – 1,770
• Strawberries – 1540
• Spinach – 1260
• Raspberries – 1220
• Brussel Sprouts – 980
• Broccoli – 890
Cacao contains theobromine which has benefits as a vasodilator, this means it can dilate smooth muscle such as the blood vessels, bronchial tubes, large intestine. It is also used as a diuretic and heart stimulant. Recent research shows the effects of how theobromine can lower blood pressure as well as help with asthma. It can be a little stimulating … so if you are sensitive to stimulants or your adrenal glands are exhausted this may not be for you.
You can buy ingredients for making your own superfood chocolate at our eStore
Recipes
Here are 2 great videos for making your own chocolate at home… you can add sweeteners like Perfect Sweet or other great ingredients like goji berries, shredded coconut or almonds
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