It is the world’s oldest adaptogenic superfood with numerous bioactive components. This complex bean has been used by humans for about 15,000 years.
Cacao is probably the world’s oldest adaptogen. This complex superfood enjoys a rich history of human use dating back 15,000 years--unsurprising when you consider its numerous health benefits.
Cacao contains antioxidants and polyphenols, which are natural compounds that do everything from protecting cells from oxidative damage to improving mood and cellular energy transportation. Cacao also contains minerals like magnesium, potassium, and zinc, as well as vitamins like B1, B2, B3, and E. Additionally, it helps improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. All of these health benefits make cacao a superfood with the potential to improve overall well-being!
Due to human’s long history with cacao, there have been more studies conducted about its potential health benefits than many other botanical ingredients in my cabinet. Daily use of cacao can seriously reduce the risk of serious heart disease and increase arterial blood flow. Cacao is also the greatest natural food source of magnesium available to humans. Magnesium is involved in over 300 critical functions in our bodies. Heart muscles, for example, rely on magnesium to function optimally. Magnesium also reduces hypertension, breaks down blood clots, and helps regulate calcium uptake. There is a direct correlation between heart health and adequate magnesium levels in the blood.
Theobromine, tryptophan, and phenylethylamine are a few more active components in cacao that have been linked with increased longevity. Theobromine is a mild stimulant that has been shown to improve cognitive function and memory. Tryptophan is an amino acid that is necessary for the production of serotonin, which has mood-enhancing effects. PEA is a neurochemical that is released when we feel happy or excited and can improve mood and cognitive function.
When all of these active components work together in cacao, they create a superfood that can boost overall health and protect against many of the factors that contribute to aging. The improved blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduced inflammation all slow down the aging process. Additionally, the antioxidants and polyphenols in cacao help protect cells from oxidative damage, which can also lead to premature aging.
When our immune system is functioning properly, we’re better able to fight off foreign invaders, like viruses and bacteria. But sometimes, due to stress, poor diet, and other lifestyle factors, our immune system can become compromised. This is when we become more susceptible to getting sick.
Cacao is a powerful superfood that can improve all aspects of the immune system. By some reports, 10% of cacao’s weight is antioxidants—more than blueberries, red wine, and pomegranate combined. Its antioxidants scour the body for harmful free radicals that can damage cells and lead to inflammation. Its polyphenols (another fancy term for antioxidants) are anti-inflammatory, nerve, and skin protective. By reducing inflammation, cacao helps to protect the body against several diseases, including heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes. Lastly, to make it even more of an immunity-boosting champion, cacao contains truckloads of vitamins C and E.
Cacao’s effects on the brain are its most famous benefit. It contains phytonutrients that protect and enhance the brain. Theobromine (related to caffeine) increases blood flow (especially to the brain) and stimulates the cardiovascular system rather than just the nervous system as caffeine does.
Cacao contains two notable neurotransmitters for the brain—anandamide and phenylethalymine. Anandamide is a cannabinoid known to lighten mood, eliminate depressive thoughts and stimulate parts of the brain associated with motivation. Phenylethalymine activates parts of the brain associated with concentration, perception, and pleasure—the source of the infamous “cacao flow.”
This unique combination of nutrients in cacao supports optimal brain function and the following laundry list of benefits:
Pay attention to the type of cacao you buy! Check for organic cacao rather than cocoa. Cacao is less processed and richer with 1200 phytonutrients. The best quality is usually from Ecuador or Peru. It's more of a superfood, so there are no real dosing guidelines. For context, a ceremonial dose starts at around 10 grams and can go up to 40 or 50 grams.
If you want to live a long and healthy life, use cacao as a coffee or energy drink substitute. If you're looking for an edge in productivity, add other brain boosters like Mucuna, Lion’s Mane Mushroom, and Rhodiola Rosea to your cacao routine for mood enhancement. Lastly, if you often find yourself stressed out, try using cacao paired with reishi mushroom and ashwagandha root instead of wine.
