Learn more about raw, organic chocolate. For more information on the health benefits of chocolate, visit Chocolate Is Healthy.
Dark chocolate is made from the nutrition-rich cacao plant. Among its many health benefits such as antioxidants, cacao contains both magnesium and sulfur, both of which are essential to the body's proper functioning. It also naturally contains enzymes that preserve anandamide. This chemical promotes happiness, good mood and loving feelings often attributed to chocolate.
Unfortunately, once the chocolate from the cacao plant goes through the standard roasting process, the majority of its nutrients dissipate. In some cases, roasting increases the negative efffects of some substances such as caffeine. While raw chocolate naturally promotes alertness, the caffeine present in roasted chocolate causes insomnia, irritability and anxiety.
In order to get the maximum benefits from chocolate consumption, we recommend eating raw,organic chocolate. Available in a variety of forms, raw chocolate is minimally processed and free of fillers. It is also available unsweetened or with the addition of unrefined sweeteners. Here are two examples of how you can enjoy raw chocolate in your diet.
Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is the least processed form of cocoa, making it the highest in flavanols, which research suggests may help protect the body from illnesses. For a deep, rich chocolate flavor, add cocoa powder to drinks, shakes or ice cream. Keep in mind that combining cocoa powder with dairy products may minimize its effectiveness, so use soy or rice milks in your recipes if possible.
Cacao Nibs
Another convenient, enjoyable way to eat raw chocolate is cacao nibs. These resemble chocolate chips and the two can sometimes be used interchangeably. For example, you may add cacao nibs to a granola or trail mix for a great snack. You'll find cacao nibs have a deeper, more natural chocolate-y flavor than the chips you're accustomed to.
While the majority of the world's chocolate is roasted, processed and contains unwanted sweeteners and fillers, you'll have plenty of options to incorporate raw, organic chocolate into your diet. Both cocoa powder and cacao nibs are available from online nutrition shops as well as many grocers and health food stores. Even some unsweetened or bittersweet chocolate bars, while containing roasted chocolate, still maintain some nutritional value. However, neither milk chocolate nor white chocolate offer any types of health benefits.
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
3 Healthy and Delish Chocolate Smoothies Recipes
By: Sandy Masters | 04/11/2009The rich aroma and texture of the chocolate has been a distraction for women struggling with weight problems. But did you know that chocolates have health benefits as well?
Buy Candy in bulk for Christmas Party
By: Article Expert | 31/10/2009Offering a delicious and beautiful candy not only leaves a remarkable impression, but also show your love and affection. Today, market is flourished with a variety of candies in different shapes and sizes.
Chocolate - How It's Made
By: Patrick Vannereux | 27/10/2009Chocolate and how it's made from the start and some trivia.
How To Lose Weight By Eating Chocolate!
By: Steve Cowley | 26/10/2009The Chocolate Diet?!! No, this is not some new diet fad but a serious response to the whole question of losing weight. If you've tried other diets but have had little success then this is the diet for you. It works - you really can lose weight by eating healthy dark chocolate!
The Traditional Thanksgiving
By: Sandla | 24/10/2009The traditional Thanksgiving has its roots in the first Thanksgiving celebrations, when there were harvest festivals, or days of thanking God for plentiful crops. It simply reminds us the year 1621 when the Pilgrim's started the Thanksgiving, which later became a tradition for the entire nation.
The Traditional Thanksgiving
By: Sandla | 24/10/2009The traditional Thanksgiving has its roots in the first Thanksgiving celebrations, when there were harvest festivals, or days of thanking God for plentiful crops. It simply reminds us the year 1621 when the Pilgrim's started the Thanksgiving, which later became a tradition for the entire nation.
The Traditional Thanksgiving
By: Sandla | 24/10/2009The traditional Thanksgiving has its roots in the first Thanksgiving celebrations, when there were harvest festivals, or days of thanking God for plentiful crops. It simply reminds us the year 1621 when the Pilgrim's started the Thanksgiving, which later became a tradition for the entire nation.
Is Healthy Chocolate Really A Nutritious Food For Children?
By: Steve Cowley | 18/10/2009This article looks at whether eating healthy chocolate is really a nutritious option for children. The author shares his own family's experience with the health benefits and encourages other parents to look seriously at the possibility that chocolate may just be a superfood for kids!
CZ Hoop Earrings in Famously Eye-Catching Styles
By: Sarita Haines | 07/08/2009 | JewelryWho would have thought there would be so many factors to consider when buying cubic zirconia hoop earrings? To select the right pair of cz hoop earrings for you, you'll need to answer several questions. Do you want something more traditional or modern? Casual or formal? Eye catching or subdued? Styles and sizes also vary widely with different precious metals, diameters and hoop shapes. Selecting the right earrings to compliment your face will make cz hoops your favorite jewelry to wear.
Cake Pans in 3 Styles - Traditional, Springform and Shaped Cake Pans
By: Sarita Haines | 07/08/2009 | Cooking TipsDifferent cakes call for different types of cake pans. Here is an overview of the three main types of cake pans that home bakers will want to have on hand: traditional round pans, springform pans and shaped pans or cake molds. If you buy high-quality cake pans, they can last a lifetime. Using our suggestions below, you'll find just the right bakeware. With it, you'll turn out one beautiful cake after another for years to come.
What Is Raw Chocolate and Why Eat It?
By: Sarita Haines | 21/06/2009 | ChocolateDark chocolate is made from the nutrition-rich cacao plant. Unfortunately, once the chocolate from the cacao plant goes through the standard roasting process, the majority of its nutrients dissipate.
Celebrity Birthdays: Inspiration For Your Next Birthday Party
By: Sarita Haines | 09/06/2009 | Home & FamilyWhen it comes to birthday parties, the glitterati know how to celebrate. While the stars' names and the budgets may be bigger, you can look at celebrities' parties to help come up with memorable birthday bash ideas of your own.
The Origins and Distribution of the Acai Berry
By: Sarita Haines | 08/06/2009 | Supplements & VitaminsWhile commercial opportunities abound for acai, there is increasing awareness of the environmental impact of acai harvesting. The acai plant is necessary for soil conservation, particularly in tropical areas that receive heavy rains. In the long term, careful, ecologically-sound measures will help preserve the commercial acai industry.
Dazzling Silver and Cubic Zirconia Jewelry: 5 Reasons To Buy
By: Sarita Haines | 07/06/2009 | JewelryMany of today’s accessory trends begin with sterling silver cubic zirconia (CZ). CZ is an ethical and reasonably-priced alternative to diamonds. Today’s most well-known, jewelry designers are introducing lines of "faux" styles that perfectly mimic real gemstone pieces. Manmade stones such as cubic zirconia are beautiful and easy to maintain.
The Principles of Cheesemaking
By: Sarita Haines | 07/06/2009 | Cooking TipsFresh milk, your choice of starter cultures, rennet and the concentration and aging processes all help determine the finished cheese. While creating a good cheese is a process of trial and error, they are many general concepts that will help you get started.