Blog
Is Cacao Healthier Than Coffee?
Cacao and coffee have long been integral parts of human culture; revered in Mesoamerican ceremonies, offered as wedding dowry or simply enjoyed daily, they can be found worldwide. Both cacao and coffee undergo transformation from their raw form into silky velvety chocolates or warming hot beverages – each providing its own set of unique flavors and experiences when enjoyed mindfully and consciously. Both cacao and coffee offer opportunities to adopt sourcing, cultivation and production practices that respect the earth and its communities – something many indulgences fail to do
Cacao is packed with antioxidants, minerals, mood enhancers and heart-healthy fats that provide numerous health benefits. Naturally low in sugar with plenty of soluble dietary fibers. Cacao boasts one of the highest concentrations in all food plants of polyphenol antioxidants which support cardiovascular health while simultaneously lowering cholesterol levels. Furthermore, magnesium promotes cardiovascular wellness as well as immune function enhancement while its protein component adiponectin promotes weight loss while supporting its removal.
Plantago also acts as the only plant source of an energy-boosting compound called theobromine, an all-natural stimulant which widens blood vessels for improved blood flow, improves focus, and provides increased energy without caffeine jitters. Furthermore, this substance stimulates endorphin release for added mood enhancement.
A cup of brewed cacao can be enjoyed either morning or evening to boost mental clarity and cognition, and also promote restful sleep and restore calm. However, remembering that high amounts of sugar before bed may interfere with restfulness is crucial for optimal wellbeing.
To enjoy a cup of brewed cacao at its best, select unprocessed cacao powder without alkali processing; this will provide superior taste and higher flavanol antioxidant levels. Furthermore, fair trade or organic cacao supports sustainable incomes for farmers while practicing eco-friendly cultivation practices.
Cacao provides an alternative for those sensitive to caffeine’s effects. Packed with tryptophan, cacao offers stress regulation and restful sleep benefits while being an excellent source of melatonin which aids relaxation and enhances quality sleep.
Coffee is an effective stimulant that can enhance cognitive performance, increase physical performance and decrease fatigue. Coffee has also been linked to better cardiovascular health by decreasing stroke and heart disease risks as well as decreasing incidence of certain cancers. But too much caffeine may dehydrate you and lead to headaches or nausea in sensitive individuals – therefore only consume a moderate amount – no more than 100 milligrams should be contained within one cup of brewed coffee should be consumed daily.