Is 100% Cacao Actually Good for You?
Here’s the Lowdown on Pure Cacao (AKA 100% Cacao)
You’ve probably heard the buzz around 100% (or pure) cacao and might be wondering, “Wait, is it actually good for me?” Spoiler: Yes, it’s a powerhouse of nutrients. While it’s not the sweet chocolate you may be used to, the health benefits will make you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Let’s break it down and answer the big question: what’s the deal with 100% cacao?
What’s in 100% Cacao?
100% cacao is just cacao—pure and simple. No added sugars, no weird stuff. What you get is a rich, natural source of:
- Magnesium: Perfect for winding down, helping with sleep, and giving your muscles some TLC.
- Antioxidants: Protect your cells like a superhero squad against free radicals.
- Fibre: It’s got that prebiotic goodness that your gut loves.
- Iron: Yup, it’s got iron too, giving you a little extra boost to keep tiredness at bay.
Basically, 100% cacao isn’t just for hardcore dark chocolate fans—it’s for anyone looking to boost their health with something that’s totally natural.
1. Energy Boost, Minus the JittersNeed a little pick-me-up but tired of the coffee jitters? Here’s where cacao comes in. 100% cacao is packed with theobromine, which gives you a steady energy boost without the crash.
Unlike caffeine, theobromine gives you more of a calm, focused energy—perfect for those mid-morning or afternoon dips. Plus, it’s a way more natural alternative to your second (or third!) coffee. Cacao does contain some caffeine (around the same as a cup of tea), but it also contains cacao butter (good natural fat) that can help to slow down the caffeine release)
2. It’s a Gut Health HeroIf you’re all about the gut health hype (and let’s be honest, who isn’t these days?), cacao is a low-key champion. Why? Because it’s loaded with prebiotic fibre. Just 20g of Nibbed pure cacao gives you around 2g of prebiotic fibre—perfect for keeping your gut happy.
Healthy gut, happy body. It’s all connected, and 100% cacao is a simple, tasty way to add a bit more fibre to your routine. Basically, it’s a win-win for your digestion.
3. Boost Your Mood, Naturally
Cacao doesn’t just taste amazing—it actually makes you feel amazing too. Thanks to compounds like phenylethylamine (PEA) (the one that gives you that “in-love” feeling) and some natural mood-boosting goodness, 100% cacao can help lift your spirits when you need it most.
4. Packed with Magnesium for Chill Vibes & Better Sleep
If you struggle with unwinding at night or need a little help calming those sore muscles, magnesium is your new bestie. And 100% cacao is a great natural source of magnesium.
Whether you need help winding down after a long day or want to ease into your PM routine, cacao has your back. Plus, if period cramps are a regular struggle, magnesium can make a world of difference in easing the discomfort.
So, How’s It Different From Regular Chocolate?
We get it—when you hear “cacao,” your mind goes straight to hot chocolate. But here’s the deal: regular chocolate is often packed with added sugars, dairy, and fillers, which strips away a lot of the good stuff.
100% cacao? It’s the real deal. No added sugars, no fillers. Just pure cacao, meaning you get all the nutrients and none of the junk.
How to Enjoy 100% Cacao
Not sure how to get started? No worries—here are a few easy ways to enjoy 100% cacao in your daily routine:
- Hot cacao: Swap your morning coffee for a rich cacao drink—super easy and energising.
- In porridge: Stir a spoonful of grated cacao into your warm oats, and watch it melt into rich, velvety goodness. It adds a deep, chocolatey flavour that makes your morning porridge feel like a cosy treat—without any of the guilt.
- In recipes: Cacao is a great way to add some natural, rich chocolatey flavour to your homemade treats like our go-to Date 'Snickers' Cacao Bark.
And if you’re stuck for ideas, head over to our recipe section for some inspo.
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