What Happens to Your Body When You Eat CacaoCacao

Cacao, the raw ingredient from which chocolate is derived, is rich in flavonoids—plant compounds that offer numerous health benefits. These compounds contribute to regulating blood pressure, improving blood flow, and preventing blood clots.

Heart Health Enhancement

Cacao beans and powders are loaded with potassium, a crucial nutrient for maintaining healthy blood pressure. Consistent high blood pressure can increase the risk of serious health issues, including heart disease and chest pain. Consuming sufficient potassium from cacao can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart-related conditions. However, excessive potassium intake can be harmful, potentially leading to severe health issues such as heart attacks, so it's best to derive potassium from food sources like cacao and only use supplements if advised by a healthcare professional.

Metabolic Health Improvement

The high flavonoid content in cacao offers medicinal benefits, supporting metabolic health by aiding insulin secretion and improving fat metabolism. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels and manage carbohydrate digestion.

Oxidative Stress Reduction

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage and inflammation. Cacao's antioxidants help stabilize free radicals, minimizing oxidative stress and potentially preventing related health issues.

Stress Reduction

Cacao is known to promote mental well-being by decreasing stress levels and inducing relaxation. Tryptophan, an amino acid in cacao, is converted by the body into serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood improvement. Tryptophan also aids sleep, contributing further to positive effects on mood disorders.

Enhanced Brain Health

Research suggests that cacao consumption can improve cognitive function due to its flavonoids, which boost blood and oxygen flow to the brain. This can enhance memory, critical thinking, and overall brain function. Older adults at risk of cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's, can benefit from cacao's neuroprotective effects, which support neuron survival and function.

Increased Iron Levels

Raw cacao beans are a rich source of iron, which is vital for the production of hemoglobin—responsible for oxygen transport in the bloodstream—and hormone production. Due to its high iron content, cacao is especially beneficial for individuals who do not consume meat, as it historically served as an ancient remedy for anemia.

Cacao Nutrition OverviewA 5-gram serving of cacao provides significant nutritional benefits:

• Calories: 20

• Carbohydrates: 3 g (1% DV)

• Fiber: 2 g (6% DV)

• Protein: 1 g (3% DV)

• Magnesium: 34 mg (8% DV)Raw cacao also offers 2% of the daily value for iron and potassium, and contains no cholesterol, sodium, or vitamin D.

Understanding Cacao vs. CocoaCacao and cocoa differ in processing and flavor:

• Cacao: Derived from raw beans and less processed, resulting in a more bitter taste.

• Cocoa: Made from roasted beans, more processed, and typically sweetened.

Potential Side Effects of CacaoDespite its health benefits, excessive cacao consumption may lead to side effects, particularly due to its caffeine content. Those sensitive to caffeine or who consume large amounts of cacao may experience caffeine-related issues. Moreover, cacao is calorie and fat-dense, contributing to potential weight gain if consumed in large quantities over time.