CAN CACAO REPLACE YOUR MORNING CUP OF COFFEE?
Have you ever tried to replace your cup of coffee for a cup of cacao? For all of you who are hooked on your morning lattes and afternoon espresso’s will find this an interesting read.
Research shows that cacao is a healthier alternative. So, if you love the way coffee makes you feel, you will get a similar effect from drinking cacao, but with many more health benefits.
While the caffeine in coffee is intense, strong, fast acting and can be addictive, the theobromine in cacao is gentle, mild, long lasting and non-addictive.
The theobromine in cacao is a mild stimulant that last for longer than caffeine, it gives a softer and longer sustained focus and energy. While caffeine is an alkaloid that works on the nervous system and this can result in a more nervous energy.
Not convinced yet?
Here are some additional benefits to start drinking cacao as a healthy coffee alternative:
CACAO IS RICH IN NUTRIENTS
Cacao contains a large number of minerals with high amounts of iron, copper, manganese, and zinc. It’s an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral that is essential to most of the body’s important biological processes. Cacao also contains antioxidants to keep your cells healthy and support your immune system.
Coffee vs Cacao
The energy boost in the morning
CACAO IMPROVES YOUR MOOD WHILE COFFEE TRIGGERS PHYSICAL STRESS RESPONSES
Cacao contains anandamide ((the “bliss” chemical in our bodies), serotonin (the “feel-good” chemical in our brains), and tryptophan (a natural antidepressant amino acid).
Just a small serving of raw cacao triggers the brain to release feel-good endorphins and increases blood flow to the brain. It provides you with naturally occurring mood-enhancing compounds that have been shown to improve focus, mood, and energy. In contrast to the caffeine in coffee, which increases a neurotransmitter that signals the release of the stress hormone cortisol.
CACAO IMPROVES SLEEP WHILE CAFFEINE CAN CAUSE SLEEP PROBLEMS
Despite being a stimulant, theobromine can actually help you to sleep at night as it helps to balance brain chemistry. While caffeine can make it harder to fall asleep.
