5 reasons why raw cacao should not be missing from your kitchen

Of course, there are sayings like "A piece of chocolate a day drives the doctor away." are more joke than real, but there is a grain of truth in it.

Its many benefits have been known to ancient peoples

The health benefits of cocoa are particularly important when we are talking about cocoa that has been processed, as it retains many of the beneficial substances that are otherwise lost when cocoa is processed. You may be surprised to learn that processed cocoa contains almost 4 times as many antioxidants as regular processed dark chocolate, 20 times as many antioxidants as blueberries, and 119 times as many as bananas! Because of its many healing properties, it has been used as a medicine by ancient peoples to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs and hair loss.

But beware - you won''t find naturally fermented raw cacao in processed chocolate bars, which are made from roasted cacao, sugar, milk and other ingredients. These inhibit the absorption of the antioxidants in chocolate, so you''ll only find the true health benefits of cocoa in its raw form.

5 reasons to use it

• Beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system

Cacao is rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties. The flavonols present in cacao improve blood circulation and can help reduce the chances of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, preventing inflammation and plaque build-up on artery walls, and helping to protect our cells from damage. Cacao is also rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and magnesium, which maintains muscle function; it is therefore essential for the health of the heart, the most important muscle in our body.

• Improves skin appearance and health

The consumption of cocoa powder is also recommended as a prevention against harmful UV radiation, but it is also anti-inflammatory, improves the blood circulation of the skin, increases its hydration and reduces its roughness and flakiness.

• Helps lose excess weight

Good news for those who want to lose a kilo or two but find it hard to give up sweet things. Pressed cocoa is known for being an effective fat melter and is therefore a welcome companion for diets of all kinds. Not only that, but it''s also a good choice for those of you who like to keep fit. Its magnesium content supports muscle function, helps to balance electrolytes and aids muscle recovery after strenuous exercise.

• Increases energy levels in the body

This was already recognised by the Aztecs, who prepared cocoa drinks for warriors as an extra source of energy. As well as a small amount of caffeine, raw cacao also contains theobromine, which stimulates the flow of energy through the body, so a few pieces of pure chocolate can be a great alternative to a cup of coffee. The main credit for this wonderful property of cocoa goes to magnesium, which gives energy to the body.

• Improves mood

This is one of those benefits of eating cocoa that everyone probably already knows. It contains certain active substances that have a positive effect on our mood. Fresh cocoa is particularly rich in zinc and magnesium, which help to produce serotonin and dopamine, which promote pleasant emotions.

Where can we use it?

Although it has a less sweet taste than regular chocolate due to the different production method, it is very welcome in the kitchen as a sweetener or as a healthy sugar substitute. It can be added to smoothies and freshly squeezed juices, as well as to desserts or yoghurt, as it will give a hint of chocolate and you will be able to eat your chosen dish without feeling guilty. But there''s no doubt that espresso cocoa is also useful on cold evenings, as it goes well with warm drinks such as hot chocolate, coffee and even tea.