Medicinally these days, cacao is used to rectify magnesium deficiency, improve cardiovascular function, elevate mood, assists with weight loss (as it is an appetite suppressant) body tonic and as an anti-oxidant to be taken when detoxing, achieving weight loss, when there are inflammatory conditions present, etc. Cacao is a good source of phytonutrients, beta-carotene, vitamin C, amino acids such as tryptophan and phenylalanine, omega 6, soluble fibre, calcium, copper, sulfur, potassium and high in magnesium, zinc, and iron (however only 0% - 40% availability as it is non-heme iron).
Phenylethylamine (PEA) found in raw cacao is a chemical that is produced in our body and released when we fall in love. It also contains enzymes that decrease the breakdown of Anandamide, the "bliss chemical" a chemical released in the body when we feel great, therefore allowing to stay active in the body for longer, to feel good for longer. Cacao beans, nibs and powder contain no sugar and have a fat content lower than most nuts.
IMPORTANT NOTES: Raw cacao powder has had no processing and is pure raw chocolate. Cocoa powder, however, is made from the dried, ground and the fully fermented seed of the cacao bean, a different product with a totally different nutritional profile, therefore this information does not apply to conventional chocolate that contains sugars etc. Raw cacao is an appetite suppressant. Raw cacao increases alertness and energy so caution when consuming around bed time or relaxation.
Certified Organic: ACO
Country of Origin: Peru