Why Cacao Beans are Super Food

Cacao beans are the seed of a fruit that grows on the cacao tree. Cacao trees originated in the Amazon basin, and they will only grow in a very warm, moist, shady environment. Cacao beans were so highly valued by ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations, they were used as money. Cacao beans are naturally sugar free and taste somewhat bitter in their raw form.

In their natural state, cacao beans are a super food. They contain many nutrients that are beneficial to our health in a variety of ways. Although eating raw cacao beans would provide you with the direct benefits of pure cacao, nutritionists agree cacao as available in dark chocolate is beneficial.

Cacao beans contain many substances that have earned them the reputation as being Nature's Antidepressant. To start with, cacao beans contain three neurotransmitters that are associated with promoting a healthy mood and positive mental state: serotonin, dopamine and phenylethylamine.

The phenylethylamine, or PEA contained in cacao beans affects brain chemistry in a very interesting positive way. To say you "love" chocolate may not be too far off, since PEA produces a brain chemistry that's similar to that associated with falling in love!

In addition to containing mood enhancing neurotransmitters, cacao beans also contain the amino acid tryptophan and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. MAO inhibitors allow the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine to circulate in the bloodstream longer, which may help alleviate depression and support feelings of well being. MAO inhibitors have long been featured in antidepressant pharmaceutical medications, as has tryptophan. Tryptophan plays a vital role in the production of serotonin within the body, as well.

In addition to promoting healthy mental or emotional states, cacao beans have positive effects on the cardiovascular system in the body. They contain polyphenols - the same beneficial antioxidants contained in red wine. It is entirely possible to enjoy the health benefits of drinking the recommended "daily glass of wine" without consuming alcohol by eating dark chocolate.

Research indicates that cocao beans can help reduce or control the levels of "bad" cholesterol in our bloodstream while raising the "good" cholesterol (HDL) levels. Studies have also indicated the polyphenols in cacao beans may reduce blood pressure.

Magnesium is another nutrient in cacao beans and hence, dark chocolate. Magnesium supports heart and cardiovascular system health. It also improves the strength and condition of the heart and supports its ability to pump blood effectively.

Magnesium decreases blood coagulation, which means it reduces the risk of blood clots. The ability to lower the risk of blood clots is an important health benefit associated with cocoa beans for anyone concerned about their risk for heart attack or stroke.

If you have heard about the health benefits associated with consuming antioxidants, you will be impressed with the level of antioxidant flavonols contained in cacao beans. Research indicates that cacao beans are one of the richest natural food sources of antioxidant flavonols available. They may contain as much as a 10 percent antioxidant concentration level. Studies at Cornell University found that cacao powder contained up to three times the level of antioxidants in green tea, and twice the level found in red wine.

Antioxidants are associated with a variety of health benefits. They play an important role in protecting against cell damage and may reduce the risk of some types of cancer. They are also associated with promoting healthy cholesterol levels in the body.

Research indicates that rather than being taken in as supplements, antioxidants should be consumed in their natural form for maximum benefit. This is one of the main reasons why nutritionists recommend consuming a large amount and variety of fruits and vegetables. You can add dark chocolate to the list of antioxidant rich foods to include in your diet.

In addition to all of these incredible health benefits, cacao beans are also gaining a reputation for supporting weight loss. Although scientific evidence to support this claim is lacking at this time, many of the health benefits we do know to be associated with cacao beans indicate it could be of benefit to dieters.

Studies indicate the polyphenols contained in cacao beans may improve insulin sensitivity. Scientists are now exploring the link between obesity and a condition called Insulin Resistance Syndrome. Improved sensitivity to insulin as a result of consuming cacao beans or dark chocolate may actually support individuals' efforts to lose weight.

The feel-good, natural antidepressant properties associated with cocao bean consumption may also make it easier for people to stick with their diets, thus supporting weight loss. Being able to plan to enjoy a treat such as dark chocolate can help dieters overcome cravings that may lead to "cheating" on diets with unhealthy, high-calorie and high-fat forbidden foods.

Although you may obtain and include raw cacoa beans in your diet, dark chocolate offers a much tastier and easy to access alternative. There are certain characteristics you should look for when you select dark chocolate for health benefits.

To access the health benefits associated with cacao beans, choose dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cacao. You will also want to be certain your dark chocolate does not contain milk, as milk and dairy products may detract from the body's ability to absorb the antioxidants in cacao.

Try to purchase dark chocolate that is made from cacao butter instead of other fats such as palm and coconut oil. You will want to avoid "hydrogenated" or "partially hydrogenated" oils in dark chocolate, as these can have a negative impact on your cholesterol levels.

Manufacturers are aware that health conscious individuals are on the lookout for "healthy" dark chocolate bars. You shouldn't have too much difficulty finding a suitable option. Just be sure that once you find the right dark chocolate to support your health, you consume only a suitable amount for your weight and activity level. Dark chocolate is usually high in calories, and you do not need to consume a large amount to receive the health benefits associated with this super food.