Raw cacao is celebrated not only for its rich flavour but also for its impressive health benefits. Derived from the unprocessed seeds of the cacao tree, raw cacao contains essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that support overall health.
Unlike processed chocolate, raw cacao is packed with antioxidants, minerals, and healthy fats that offer a wide range of health benefits, from improving heart health to enhancing mood and boosting energy levels.
In this article, we will look at the specific health benefits of raw cacao and explain how adding it to your diet can positively impact various aspects of your health; you can also try this out.
Heart Health Benefits Of Raw Cacao
Raw cacao is known to support heart health through several mechanisms, largely due to its high flavonoid content.
1. Improves Blood Circulation
Raw cacao contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that help improve blood flow. These compounds stimulate the production of nitric oxide in the body, which relaxes and dilates blood vessels. This leads to improved circulation and lower blood pressure.
- Benefit: Better blood flow can help reduce the risk of hypertension and improve cardiovascular health.
- Research finding: Studies have shown that consuming raw cacao regularly can help reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
2. Reduces LDL Cholesterol
Raw cacao has been found to reduce the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. Lowering LDL cholesterol helps prevent plaque buildup in the arteries, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Benefit: Reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis.
- Research finding: Research indicates that flavonoids in raw cacao can help balance cholesterol levels by increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and decreasing LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Mental Wellbeing And Mood Enhancement
Raw cacao is often used as a natural mood booster. The compounds in raw cacao can enhance mental clarity, elevate mood, and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
1. Stimulates Endorphin Production
Raw cacao contains phenylethylamine (PEA), a compound that promotes the production of endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones and are responsible for creating feelings of happiness and euphoria.
- Benefit: Enhanced mood and improved emotional well-being.
- Research finding: Studies suggest that consuming raw cacao may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, providing a natural mood lift.
2. Boosts Serotonin Levels
Cacao is a natural source of tryptophan, an amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. A healthy balance of serotonin can improve feelings of happiness and reduce stress.
- Benefit: Greater emotional balance and reduced symptoms of depression.
- Research finding: Regular consumption of raw cacao may help improve serotonin production, promoting better mental health.
Physical Energy And Performance
Raw cacao is known to provide a natural energy boost, making it a popular choice among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
1. Boosts Physical Endurance
The minerals in raw cacao, particularly magnesium and iron, play a role in supporting muscle function and oxygen transportation to muscles. This can help improve physical endurance during exercise.
- Benefit: Enhanced exercise performance and improved stamina.
- Research finding: Magnesium helps reduce muscle cramps and fatigue, while iron ensures that muscles receive sufficient oxygen to perform optimally.
2. Supports Healthy Metabolism
Theobromine, a stimulant found in raw cacao, is known to increase metabolism and promote fat oxidation. This means the body burns more fat for energy, which can support weight management efforts.
- Benefit: Improved metabolic function and support for healthy weight management.
- Research finding: The thermogenic properties of theobromine may increase energy expenditure, helping to burn fat more efficiently.
Skin Health And Raw Cacao
The nutrients found in raw cacao have been linked to improved skin health and a reduction in signs of ageing.
1. Protects From UV Damage
The antioxidants in raw cacao, particularly flavonoids, help protect the skin from harmful UV radiation. By improving blood flow to the skin, cacao can help reduce the risk of sunburn and skin damage caused by UV exposure.
- Benefit: Protection against sunburn and premature skin ageing.
- Research finding: Studies have shown that flavonoids in raw cacao help neutralise free radicals produced by UV rays, thus protecting the skin from oxidative damage.
2. Promotes Healthy, Glowing Skin
Magnesium, zinc, and other nutrients in raw cacao contribute to better skin health by promoting hydration, supporting collagen production, and reducing inflammation. These minerals help the skin look smooth, radiant, and youthful.
- Benefit: Healthier skin with improved elasticity and reduced wrinkles.
- Research finding: Zinc, a key mineral in raw cacao, helps promote skin healing and reduces the appearance of acne or blemishes.
Raw Cacao For Weight Management
Raw cacao has been shown to support weight management by reducing cravings and improving metabolism.
1. Reduces Appetite And Cravings
Raw cacao can help reduce appetite and curb cravings for sugary foods. This is due to its magnesium content, which supports blood sugar regulation and prevents energy crashes.
- Benefit: Reduced hunger and cravings, leading to healthier eating habits.
- Research finding: Consuming raw cacao may help regulate blood sugar and reduce the desire for high-sugar snacks.
2. Promotes Fat Loss
Theobromine in raw cacao not only boosts energy but also has thermogenic properties that can increase fat oxidation. This means raw cacao can assist in burning fat, especially when combined with regular exercise.
- Benefit: Enhanced fat burning and support for weight loss goals.
- Research finding: Raw cacao may help increase fat metabolism, making it easier for the body to burn stored fat for energy.
Gut Health And Digestion
Raw cacao can support digestive health and improve gut function through its prebiotic properties.
1. Supports Healthy Gut Flora
Raw cacao contains prebiotics, which are compounds that nourish beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.
- Benefit: Improved digestion and overall gut health.
- Research finding: Prebiotics in raw cacao helps promote the growth of good bacteria, supporting a balanced gut microbiome.
2. Enhances Digestive Enzyme Production
Raw cacao contains compounds that stimulate the production of digestive enzymes. These enzymes help break down food more efficiently, aiding in the digestion process.
- Benefit: Better digestion and reduced symptoms of bloating or constipation.
- Research finding: Regular consumption of raw cacao may improve digestive function and reduce discomfort caused by digestive issues.
Cognitive Function And Brain Health
In addition to its mood-enhancing properties, raw cacao can improve cognitive function and protect the brain from age-related decline.
1. Enhances Memory And Focus
Flavonoids found in raw cacao have been shown to improve cognitive performance, particularly memory and focus. By improving blood flow to the brain, raw cacao can enhance mental clarity and reduce brain fog.
- Benefit: Improved focus, concentration, and memory recall.
- Research finding: Studies suggest that regular consumption of flavonoid-rich foods like raw cacao can enhance brain function and slow cognitive decline.
2. Protects Against Neurodegenerative Diseases
The antioxidants in raw cacao help protect the brain from oxidative stress, which is a key factor in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. These compounds help reduce inflammation and protect brain cells from damage.
- Benefit: Protection against cognitive decline and age-related brain diseases.
- Research finding: The high levels of antioxidants in raw cacao can help protect the brain from the effects of oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Conclusion
Raw cacao is a nutrient-dense superfood that offers numerous health benefits, from improving heart health to enhancing mood and supporting weight management. With its rich array of antioxidants, minerals, and bioactive compounds, raw cacao can be a valuable addition to any diet. Whether you enjoy it in smoothies, as a snack, or in various recipes, raw cacao provides a delicious and health-boosting treat.
By incorporating raw cacao into your daily routine, you can enjoy improved heart health, mental clarity, better skin, and more energy. Just be sure to choose raw cacao products that are free from added sugars and artificial ingredients to maximise its health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Raw Cacao Help Improve Heart Health?
Raw cacao can improve heart health by boosting blood circulation, lowering blood pressure, and reducing LDL cholesterol levels. The flavonoids in cacao promote nitric oxide production, which helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation, ultimately reducing the risk of heart disease.
Can Raw Cacao Aid In Weight Loss?
Yes, raw cacao can help with weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing fat metabolism. Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar and prevent cravings, while theobromine boosts metabolism, allowing the body to burn fat more efficiently.
Is Raw Cacao Beneficial For Skin Health?
Raw cacao contributes to healthier skin by protecting it from UV damage, reducing signs of ageing, and improving hydration. The antioxidants and minerals in raw cacao, such as zinc and magnesium, support collagen production and skin healing, helping to maintain a youthful appearance.