Raw cacao powder boasts a deliciously intense chocolate flavour and is extremely rich in beneficial nutrients including vitamins, minerals, fibre and essential fatty acids, which encourage weight loss (by promoting a prolonged feeling of fullness) and have been clinically proven to reduce hardening of the arteries, reverse heart disease and lower blood pressure. But did you know that raw cacao powder can also demonstrably increase energy, heighten libido and improve your mood and concentration?

Lets take a closer look at the unique properties of raw cacao powder…

What is raw cacao powder?

Raw cacao powder is made from the cacao beans found in the fruit of the cacao tree, a tropical tree native to Central and South America. Unlike standard cocoa powder, raw cacao powder is made from unroasted cacao beans, which not only protects its exceptionally high nutritional value, it also results in one of the finest natural superfoods on our planet. Raw cacao powder is absolutely crammed with antioxidants, vitamin C, magnesium, iron, chromium, anandamide, theobromine, manganese, zinc, copper, omega-6 fatty acids, tryptophan and serotonin and has been used in both traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat the heart, kidneys and spleen for generations.

So, how does raw cacao powder increase energy levels?

Consuming raw cacao powder helps stimulate the secretion of endorphins, producing a “runner’s high” that leaves you literally buzzing. And thanks to a number of special ingredients, raw cacao powder also helps improve blood flow to the brain, thus actively increasing energy levels. These include:

• Magnesium – raw cacao powder is the richest dietary source of magnesium on earth. Magnesium is an excellent source of energy that not only optimises our use of oxygen in order to boost energy and burn calories, it also helps to balances brain chemistry, build strong bones, and help regulate blood pressure. It is estimated that 7 out of 10 UK women suffer from a magnesium deficiency, which causes fatigue, weakness, anxiety and irritability.
• PEA (phenylethylamine) – raw cacao powder contains exceptionally high concentrations of PEA, which is also known as the ‘love drug’ because as well as increasing energy levels, alertness and concentration, it also heightens libido.
• Theobromine – theobromine is a mild natural stimulant that can help us to burn fat. It also increases our sensation of pleasure by boosting serotonin levels.

How can I add raw cacao powder to my daily diet?

Raw cacao powder is an extremely versatile superfood that can be stirred directly into smoothies, shakes and protein drinks or used as a delicious ingredient in a selection of raw chocolate recipes including raw chocolate bars, desserts and cakes.

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