The Heart of Cacao: Theobroma

Cacao is no ordinary food. Its name, Theobroma cacao, comes from the Greek words theos, meaning "god," and broma, meaning "food." Known as "the food of the gods," cacao has been celebrated for centuries for its rich flavor and potent health benefits.

Our cacao beans are sourced from Belize and Madagascar, two regions famed for their rich soil and ideal growing conditions, which contribute to the beans' intense, aromatic flavor profile.

Health Benefits of Cacao

Cacao is more than just a tasty indulgence—it’s packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds that promote overall well-being. As the highest plant-based source of iron, cacao delivers 7.3mg of iron per 100g, surpassing even beef and spinach. It's a great way to support healthy red blood cell production and energy levels.

In addition to its mineral content, cacao contains powerful antioxidants like flavonoids, particularly epicatechin, which have been linked to cardiovascular health, improved insulin sensitivity, and enhanced brain function. Studies have found that these antioxidants can improve blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and protect against atherosclerosis. Raw cacao has also been shown to support healthy circulation, cognitive function, and memory retention, making it a perfect superfood for both body and mind.

Cacao’s health benefits extend beyond just the physical: research indicates that it also supports brain health, with studies demonstrating that the flavonoids in cacao can penetrate brain regions associated with learning and memory.

"Raw cocoa beans are characterized by very strong antioxidant activity, which has a protective impact on human health, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases." – MDPI

Coconut Sugar: A Healthier Sweetener

Our cacao beans are lightly caramelized in organic coconut sugar, a natural sweetener with a much lower glycemic index than traditional sugar. This means it causes a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar, helping to avoid the energy spikes and crashes associated with more refined sugars. Coconut sugar also retains a wealth of minerals like potassium, magnesium, and zinc, which support heart health, immune function, and overall vitality. In fact, coconut sugar is known to contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria, and choline, which is essential for brain and liver function.

The coconut palm, one of the oldest food plants known to humanity, is recorded in Sanskrit and produces over 20 billion nuts each year. It is believed to have originated somewhere in the Mayan archipelago and has since spread throughout the tropics. These remarkable nuts have even been known to survive flotation across oceans, a testament to the resilience and versatility of the coconut tree.

In addition to its impressive health benefits, coconut sugar is a sustainable option for both your health and the planet. Its production requires fewer resources than cane sugar, and it contains higher amounts of nutrients, making it a more eco-friendly choice.

"Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index than refined sugar, making it a healthier choice for those mindful of their blood sugar levels." – Harvest Returns

Mood-Boosting Benefits

One of the most exciting aspects of cacao is its ability to enhance mood. This is due to a compound known as anandamide, often referred to as the "bliss molecule." Anandamide helps to promote feelings of happiness and well-being by interacting with the brain’s receptors and increasing serotonin and dopamine levels.

Cacao’s mood-enhancing properties are just one of the many reasons it has been cherished for centuries. It’s a delicious way to indulge in a bit of joy while nourishing your body with essential nutrients.

Why Our Coconut Sugar Cacao Beans?

• No additives or stabilizers—just pure cacao and coconut sugar.

• Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids to support heart health and cognitive function.

• A great source of iron and essential minerals.

• Mood-boosting benefits to keep you feeling good, naturally.

Whether you're enjoying them as a snack or adding them to your favorite recipes, our Coconut Sugar Cacao Beans are the perfect balance of luxurious flavor and health benefits. Treat yourself to the "food of the gods" with every bite.

Sources:

1. MDPI, Antioxidant Properties of Cocoa Beans (Theobroma cacao L.): Influence of Cultivar and Roasting Conditions, https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/10/9/2049

2. ScienceDirect, Cocoa and Cardiovascular Health, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780983079125500050

3. Harvest Returns, The Health Benefits of Cacao, https://www.harvestreturns.com/blog/2017/10/19/the-health-benefits-of-cacao

4. Agricultural Reviews, Cacao and Bioactive Compounds, https://arccjournals.com/journal/agricultural-reviews/R-1851

5. Atheroprotective Effects of (Poly)phenols, https://www.atheroprotectiveeffects.com