Raw Cacao

Raw Cacao beans are extremely nutritious, and are the best source of magnesium, which helps the heart, brain, digestive system, and helps to build strong bones.

They are high in iron, chromium, anandamide-which is known as the Bliss Chemical which is released when one feels good, manganese, zinc, copper, theobromine and the highest source in antioxidants such as polyphenols, catechins, and epicatechins.

Phenethylamine (PEA), the chemical our bodies produce when we fall in love. Tryptophan, which is an amino acid and protects against stress in its raw state. Serotonin-similar to tryptophan and melatonin, it protects against stress and makes one feel happy.

They also contain Vitamin C, and Omega 6 fatty acids.

Processed chocolate as we know it today has been boiled, roasted, and rolled. Natural oils have been pressed out and the cacao has lost all or most of its nutritional value.

Then milk is added to give it a creamier texture; sugar to sweeten the taste; and preservatives which are all no good for you. As a matter of fact this chocolate is bad for you and you should avoid it.

In order to receive the benefits of the cacao bean it must be consumed in its raw state. This is where the cold-processing comes in; the beans are not roasted or boiled, but kept at low temperatures during process to keep all enzymes alive.

This cold processing produces raw chocolate which looks, feels, and tastes like any other chocolate; only it is good for you. All the vitamins and minerals are still alive for maximum benefit for the body.

Many people like to eat the bean as it is despite the slight bitter taste.

You can add it to your favorite trail mix of other nutritious nuts or seeds.

Freeze them along with agave nectar or honey and eat frozen.

Blend together with a sweetener like agave nectar, honey or maple syrup; add your favorite nuts like almonds, cashews, peanuts, or pecans to make your own raw chocolate bars.

Add raw cacao nibs or powder to your favorite fruit smoothies.

Add them to your favorite tea.

Sprinkle nibs over ice cream.

Raw Cacao is available only at Health Food stores. You won't find it at your local grocery or convenient store. You can also buy it online at Sunfood Nutrition founded by David Wolfe.

David has spent 14 years studying how our bodies work and how nutrition affects our bodies and what we can do to live long and healthy lives.

Watch the video below on what he has to say about raw cacao.