The cacao is naturally loaded with antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols (types of antioxidants), which help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.
Oxidative Stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals (highly reactive molecules) and the body’s ability to neutralize them. Free radicals can damage cells, proteins, and DNA, contributing to various health issues and aging.
Flavanoids and polyphenols are types of antioxidants found in cacao that play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress. They have been linked to a range of health benefits, including:
- Cardiovascular Health: Flavonoids can contribute to heart health improving blood vessel function, reducing inflammation, and helping to regulate blood pressure. These effects may lower the risk of heart disease.
- Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in cacao may help reduce the risk of certain cancers by neutralizing free radicals and inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
- Improved Immune Function: Antioxidants support the immune system by neutralizing free radicals that can compromise immune function.
- Anti-Aging: By protecting cells from oxidative damage, antioxidants in cacao may contribute to slowing down the aging process, promoting healthier skin and tissues.
It's important to consume cacao in its pure, unprocessed form to maximize its antioxidant benefits. Ceremonial Grade Cacao drink is the best choice due to the high cacao content (100%) or Dark chocolate with high cacao % is a good choice as well, as it contains more antioxidants compared to milk chocolate, which often has added sugars and lower cacao content.
Author
Jose Visconti - Founder and COO of Cacao Adventures
Background & Expertise
Jose has worked with Chocolate and Cacao since 2014 in various capacities; as an Agricultural Liaison for Bean-to-Bar chocolate companies, as a consultant to the International Trade Center, as a sourcer of Specialty Beans where he worked with Internationally renowned chefs, as the Chief of R&D and operations manager for specialty chocolate manufacturers. Jose has travelled throughout many parts of Peru to search for specialty cacao and holds unique knowledge in harvest and post-harvest processes that unlock the full potential of unique and special cacao beans.
Personal Connection to the Topic
Jose is not only a chocolate lover, but a nature and travel enthusiast as well. When he learned the full story of cacao, and how the original wild strains of cacao were in danger of extinction, he took it upon himself to find the right people on both sides of the supply chain to bring this issue to light through communication and product development; not just using words, but creating irresistible chocolate and cacao products to highlight the importance of preservation.
Mention why this work matters to them—especially if there's a cultural or emotional tie.