How to make the perfect healthy hot chocolate

Since researching the health benefits of raw cacao I thought I would come up with some easy ways to incorporate it into your diet. What a better way than to start with hot chocolate!

All you need is:

-       1 mug of milk (almond, coconut, rice)

-       1-2 Tbsp of raw cacao powder

-       Sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

Just warm the milk (no more than 116 degrees), add the cacao powder and mix well. (I find it easiest to use a milk frother) I would suggest only adding 1 Tbsp of cacao powder to start with because it is strong and could become bitter. Depending on the milk you have used, you may want to sweeten with a little honey and sprinkle of cinnamon.

It is best to opt for non-dairy milk because there is research to suggest that dairy inhibits the absorption of antioxidants from raw cacao.

Why use cacao?

Health benefits linked with cacao:

-       Helps to lower insulin resistance

-       Reduces blood pressure and your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke

Cacao contains high levels of antioxidants to maintain healthy levels of Nitric Oxide (NO) and neutralize toxins.

-       Boosts your mood

Cacao can increase levels of neurotransmitters linked to feeling a sense of well-being and contains the brain chemical phenylethylamine associated with feelings of love.

-       It is rich in minerals

         Cacao contains magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, zinc, copper & manganese. 

        Why is Cacao is better for you than Cocoa?

To make coco the cacao bean has been roasted at high temperatures, reducing the enzyme content and lowering the overall nutritional value. Where as, raw cacao powder is produced by cold pressing un-roasted cacao beans. This method retains the living enzymes and removes the fat (cacao butter).