Apart from the interchange of vowels in the two, Cacao and Cocoa are different forms of the same seed of the Theobroma Cacao tree, however, they differ nutritionally.
Raw cacao is made by cold-pressing raw (unroasted) cacao beans that are bitter and have a higher antioxidant and nutrient content. The process keeps the living enzymes in the cacao and removes the fat (cacao butter). Cacao is high in antioxidants mainly flavonoids, isoflavones, anthocyanins and alkaloids. It is a mineral marvel with an excellent blend of minerals like potassium, phosphorus, manganese, calcium, zinc. The excellent combination of minerals and antioxidants helps to regulate blood pressure, improve good cholesterol and boost immunity. Cacao also boasts of mood-enhancing compounds like phenylethylamine and Theobromine that increase the levels of happy hormones like serotonin, which help to fight stress and depression.
Cocoa powder is raw cacao that’s been roasted at high temperatures and is less bitter. It presents a similar nutrient and antioxidant profile, however in decreased amounts due to the losses in the heating process. Although Cocoa powder is nutritionally a step lower than raw cacao, it can still present similar health benefits if consumed in the correct form.
So, it can be concluded that Cacao or Cocoa in small amounts proves to present a range of health benefits. However, this fact is usually half-understood and often considered as a license to consume sugar and fat-laden milk and white chocolates rampantly available in the markets.
While Raw Cacao outsmarts its other counterparts nutritionally, among the various Chocolates, Dark chocolates (with more than 70% cocoa) have an upper hand as compared to white or milk chocolate.
So choose this Superfood wisely, coz it comes with a price tag of a forbidden component – CALORIES!
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Dark Chocolate- The Nutritious answer to a sweet craving
