Chocolate has amazing health benefits. Unfortunately most of these benefits only come from raw chocolate or cocao. Cacao is very high in iron and magnesium. Magnesium is essential in bone growth, blood pressure as well as relieving depression and migraines. Magnesium can also relieve menstrual symptoms, so isn't interesting that women often crave chocolate during their cycle? Raw cocao is one of the highest sources of antioxidants, higher than blueberries and green vegetables. Cocoa powder, found in most store bought chocolate bars, has been roasted at a high temperature, thus killing most beneficial enzymes. Raw cocao is made by cold-pressing raw cocoa beans, therefore keeping the enzymes alive. So, go ahead have your raw chocolate and eat it too.
One of our favorite ways to enjoy cocao is in a smoothie. This recipe, in particular is a favorite with the combination of cherries and chocolate.
Ingredients
- 1 banana
- 2 handfuls kale or spinach
- 1/2 avocado
- 3/4 cup cherries
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cocao
- 1 capsule probiotics (optional)
- 3/4 cup water
- 3 drops liquid stevia (optional)
Directions
- Place all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth.
- Serve immediately.
Ingredients
