Did you know the powder used to make chocolate cake and hot cocoa is actually being praised as a super food? Not to be confused with cocoa, cacao is something different.

Similar to cocoa, raw cacao powder comes from the cacao bean. However, the big difference between raw cacao and cocoa powder is that cacao is made by milling the beans at low temperatures to protect the nutrients and flavor, whereas cocoa is extracted from the same bean, but at a very high temperature. This means cocoa may have been processed more and could have extra additives.

Why is cacao good for you? Here are a few reasons:

• Raw cacao powder contains natural mood stimulants – anandamide the ‘bliss chemical’ that helps to lift your mood, and arginine an essential amino acid that helps to relax the blood vessels;
• Raw cacao powder contains nearly four times the antioxidant power of regular dark chocolate;
• The high levels of magnesium in cacao can promote heart health, building of strong bones and can help produce feelings of calmness;
• Tryptophan, an amino acid found in raw cacao powder, can help us to relax.
• Sulphur, found in cacao, can help to build strong nails and healthy, beautiful skin;
• It’s easy to use – add it to smoothies, oats and protein balls or use it to make chocolate truffles, recipe can be found below.

Have a great week!
Meryl

Starting again September 7th, we’ll be following a 30 minute daily workout plan, a simple clean eating meal plan with no starvation, and daily accountability. Lose up to 10 pounds in 21 days.  Create healthy habits that last. Back to school, back to routines, get back to your fitness. Send me an email ASAP for more information.

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