Cacao is a true health all-rounder that offers numerous health benefits, especially in its pure form. Regular consumption of raw cacao can help reduce the risk of various diseases and ailments and provide the body with important nutrients and antioxidants. In this blog post, we would like to take a closer look at some of the most important health benefits of ceremonial cacao and raw cacao.
Cacao can lower blood pressure
Raw cacao contains flavanols, a type of antioxidant that can help lower blood pressure by increasing the production of nitric oxide, which helps dilate blood vessels. A 2010 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that regular consumption of cacao resulted in significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with high blood pressure.
Cacao can improve cognitive function
The flavanols found in cacao can increase blood flow to the brain. This can help improve the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain, which in turn promotes cognitive function.
A 2012 study examined the effects of regular cacao consumption on cognitive function in older adults. Participants who drank cacao daily showed significant improvements in their memory and attention compared to a control group that did not drink cacao.
Another 2018 study found that consuming cacao can also improve cognitive flexibility, which describes the brain's ability to switch between different tasks or concepts.
In addition to flavanols, ceremonial cacao also contains a lot of theobromine, a substance that acts similarly to caffeine and can improve mental alertness and attention. However, unlike caffeine, theobromine does not have any negative effects on sleep and nervousness, making it an ideal supplement for people looking to improve their cognitive function.
Another study from 2015 found that regular consumption of cacao can improve memory and language skills.
Cacao can reduce the risk of heart disease
Consuming raw cacao may help reduce the risk of heart disease. The flavanols found in raw cacao may help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the body.
A 2012 study found that regular consumption of cacao polyphenols may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering blood pressure, improving insulin resistance and increasing blood vessel function.
Another study from 2017 confirmed these results and found that consuming cacao can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, especially in people at higher risk due to diabetes or obesity. It has also been shown that regular consumption of cacao can lower LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) and increase HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol), which also helps reduce cardiovascular risk.
Additionally, people who have existing cardiovascular conditions or are taking medications should speak with their doctor before incorporating cacao consumption into their diet to discuss any potential risks or interactions. Overall, however, consuming pure cacao may help reduce the risk of heart disease and help maintain healthy cardiovascular function.
Cacao can improve skin health
Not only is raw cacao a delicious and versatile food, but it can also help improve skin health. This is because cacao contains many beneficial compounds, including antioxidants, flavonoids, and polyphenols, all of which can help protect the skin from free radical damage.
Free radicals are molecules that are created in the skin when there is oxidative stress and can damage cells. By cosnuming cacao or using cacao butter on the skin, antioxidants can protect cells and protect the skin from premature aging.
The flavonoids in cacao help reduce inflammation in the skin. Inflammation is a common cause of acne and rashes, and by reducing inflammation, flavonoids can help relieve these skin problems.
Finally, polyphenols in cacao may also help protect skin from the damaging effects of the sun. The sun is a major cause of skin damage and premature aging, and polyphenols may help protect skin from UV radiation and strengthen the skin barrier.
So overall, cacao and especcially ceremonial cacao can help improve skin health in a number of ways. Whether through consuming cacao or using cacao butter on the skin, the beneficial compounds in cacao can help hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, protect the skin from sun damage and premature aging.
However, it's important to note that not all cacao products are the same. Dark chocolate and raw cacao have higher flavanol content than milk chocolate or processed cacao drinks, which may contain sugar and other additives. It's best to choose raw cacao or dark chocolate with a high cacao content to maximize the health benefits.
