My favorite source of Cacao is Cacao Nibs which are broken up pieces of the cacao beans with the shells removed. One ounce of cacao nibs (about 3 tablespoons) contains 3 grams of protein.
Cacao Nibs are one of the best dietary sources of magnesium of which most Americans are deficient. If you’ve forgotten how important Magnesium is please reread http://www.intentionalhealthnews.com/articles/magnesium-101
Cacao Nibs are also a good source of calcium, iron, copper, zinc and potassium and fiber. They may be a better source of antioxidants than even blueberries or green tea.
How to use: In smoothies, in yogurt or oatmeal, in baking or by the handful. They are crunchy, more like a nut, and not sweet but definitely chocolaty AND, the important key word, satisfying. You might think they are bitter or just bland at first but like anything new give them the benefit of the doubt and keep using them.
Look for Raw (though technically none are raw – they can be sun dried or slow roasted), Organic, preferably Fair Trade, Cacao Nibs I buy mine from my local Mom’s Organic Market but you can find them almost anywhere including Amazon or www.iherb.com (use BOT164 as a coupon code for a discount on your first order).
The superiority of chocolate, both for health and nourishment, will soon give it the same preference over tea and coffee in America which it has in Spain. Thomas Jefferson
My favorite way to consume my cacao nibs is in a smoothie and my most favorite combination is:
ABCD Smoothie -A great afternoon pick me up
1 banana 2 Tbls Almond Butter 3 Tbls Cacao Nibs 4 pitted Dates 4 ice cubes ½ cup water or coconut water
Blend until thick, smooth and creamy. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for medical counseling. Intentional Health and DIY Health & Wellness does not treat, prevent, cure, or diagnose any disease or ailment.
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