Why you'll want to start drinking cacao today

Cacao

Cacao refers to the pure, unprocessed ingredient that comes from the cacao tree. The beans are harvested and then undergo a processing process that transforms them into products such as chocolate.

Contrary to what many people think, before this processing, cocoa is very healthy and has a bitter taste. The sweetness we associate with cocoa comes from the sugar added to it. Raw cacao is a rich source of energy and nutrients such as iron, magnesium, fiber and flavanols.

Flavanols are known for their powerful antioxidant effects and offer numerous health benefits, such as promoting blood circulation, supporting heart health and improving brain function. In addition, cocoa can potentially help protect the skin from UV radiation damage.

Spiritual effects

In addition to the physical health benefits, drinking cocoa also has spiritual effects. Cocoa has been used for centuries in Central and South America to promote inner peace and self-love. This ritual is gaining ground in the West, including in the Netherlands, where cocoa is drunk during ceremonies to help participants feel more connected to themselves and others, raise their consciousness, release emotional blockages and promote spiritual growth. Using cocoa in this context is not only a ritual, but also a way to restore physical, emotional and energetic balance.

Healthy drink

When drinking cocoa, you probably quickly think of a nice warm cup of chocolate milk, but that is not the healthy drink we are talking about. To reap the health benefits of cocoa, you need to drink raw cocoa. Mix the cocoa with pure water or a plant-based milk, such as almond milk or coconut milk, for a richer flavor. Don't add sugar if you don't want to interfere with the cocoa's spiritual effects. Some people add spices such as cinnamon, cardamom or vanilla for extra flavor and energy.

The amount of cocoa you use depends on the strength you want. A strong dose is often recommended for spiritual ceremonies, such as 2 to 3 tablespoons of raw cacao powder per cup. This higher dosage helps promote a deeper spiritual or meditative experience.

Would you rather replace your cup of coffee with cocoa without doing a ceremony? Then opt for 2 to 3 teaspoons of raw cacao powder. This way, you benefit from the health benefits, such as a boost of antioxidants and more energy, but don't stimulate the spiritual experience that a higher dose can offer. Kind of nice when you're in the office all day!