CACAO vs COCOA
Difference between Cacao vs Cocoa
There is difference between Cacao vs Cocoa. Cacao is the natural form of chocolate while Cocoa is the processed form of cacao with high heat to make it more palatable. Both derives from cacao seeds but they differ in their nutritive value because of processing. The product usually found in supermarket is Cocoa. Cocoa has low nutritive value as compared to Cacao. The raw unprocessed Cacao id usually bitter in taste.
Health Benefits of Cacao
- Raw Cacao contains high amount of flavonoids and believed to have 40 times higher ORAC value (antioxidant capacity) than blueberries in neutralising the free radicals and act as Anti inflammatory
- It is rich source of Magnesium and thus helps you to unwind and relax when taken at bedtime with hot water or milk . Magnesium helps to lower blood pressure and maintains cardiovascular health
- It has high Iron content close to 7.3 mg per 100 gm as compared to spinach which is 3.6 mg and beef containing 2.5 mg per 100 gm. But note that you cant eat 100 gm of cacao at one time but certainly spinach and beef can be
- It is a natural Mood and Energy Elevator because it contains PEA (phenylethalyamine)
- In one of the study listed on American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that Cacao improves endothelial function, reduces blood pressure & LDL levels. At the same it increases HDL levels and insulin sensitivity.
How to use Raw Cacao for Health Benefits?
You can use it in milk, just plain water or in smoothies. Due to its bitter taste, adding banana or honey to smoothie masks bitterness. Any non dairy milk like rice or almond milk is good choice if you want to avoid dairy. You can also add Nut butters or coconut oil to improve nutritional content.
