An Alternative to coffee: Raw Cacao

You looooove coffee but it gives you the jitters, and anxiety? You have heard you can drink matcha but you don't like it? Have you heard of raw cacao?

For centuries, coffee has been the go-to morning pick-me-up powering us through the day. While coffee has its allure, there's a hidden gem in the world of natural alternatives - raw cacao. Yes, the same source that brings us the beloved chocolate treat has the potential to be a game-changer in our daily routines. In this article, I will share with you my experience and knowledge about it and how it could be the perfect substitute for coffee.

I got introduced to raw cacao by my boyfriend Adam, he discovered it during a cacao ceremony and loved the effect of it, started to research it and share it with people around him and got so passionate that him and his friend Ash started Nature's joint, a raw cacao company. So, I hear about it every day, I get to see the feedback from people, and taste the different cacao and see first hands the benefits that this alternative to coffee can provide.

Raw cacao is derived from the seeds of the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao). Unlike processed cocoa powder or chocolate, raw cacao is minimally processed, preserving its rich nutritional content. This superfood is loaded with antioxidants, essential minerals, and mood-enhancing compounds. The two main components responsible for its incredible properties are theobromine and phenylethylamine.

While caffeine is the primary stimulant in coffee, raw cacao contains theobromine. Theobromine offers a milder, smoother stimulation compared to caffeine, making it an excellent alternative for those sensitive to coffee's intense effects. This gentle stimulant can provide a subtle energy boost without the notorious coffee jitters or crashes.

Raw cacao's theobromine content has a unique ability to stimulate the central nervous system gently. It increases blood flow to the brain, resulting in improved cognitive function, mental clarity, and enhanced focus. Unlike coffee, which can sometimes induce anxiety or restlessness, raw cacao fosters a sense of calm alertness, ideal for productive workdays or creative pursuits.

Another exciting aspect of raw cacao is its mood-enhancing properties. The phenylethylamine content in cacao promotes the release of endorphins and dopamine, the "feel-good" chemicals in our brain. These natural mood-boosting effects can elevate our spirits and help combat stress and anxiety. So, instead of reaching for a cup of coffee to start your day, indulge in a cup of hot raw cacao, and you may find yourself in a better mood from the get-go.

Raw cacao is a nutritional powerhouse full of essential minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc. Magnesium, in particular, plays a vital role in energy production and relaxation, making it an essential mineral for maintaining a balanced mood and overall well-being. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the body, while zinc supports the immune system. As a bonus, raw cacao also contains fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based proteins.

Unlike coffee, which can lead to energy spikes and crashes, raw cacao provides a more balanced energy boost. The combination of theobromine and other natural compounds in cacao ensures sustained stamina throughout the day. By opting for raw cacao, you can steer clear of the afternoon energy slumps, helping you stay consistently productive and alert.

To fully enjoy the benefits of raw cacao, it's essential to prepare it thoughtfully, I will share with you the way to prepare it in another blog post :).

You can use raw cacao under different forms but I am using my boyfriend's brand Raw Cacao from Nature's joint.

(This is not a sponsored post or anything, I just want to share the benefits of what I discovered through my boyfriend's brand and spread the word about it as I can see how he is passionate and genuine about it and genuinely LOVES cacao.)

I even sometimes have it with decaf coffee when I miss that little taste of coffee, or I have it on its own too with oat milk and a touch of honey.