1) MEMORY
Research suggests that when we are subject to oxidative stress we are more likely to be susceptible to memory decline, as well as other negative effects on the brain, at the same time it has been shown that when our diets are high in certain anti-oxidants we can aid the reduction in this decline. Cacao is packed full of anti-oxidants, quite a few different kinds of anti-oxidants. The flavanoid* and polyphenol* anti-oxidant compounds found in large quantities in cacao, have been suggested to protect the brain from degeneration, aiding memory, learning and thinking, and so may help lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other brain related diseases.
(1) Flavanoids* are also linked to helping decrease the risk of stroke related brain injury due to enhancing blood flow to the brain.
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2) HEART HEALTH
Heart Disease (Cardiovascular Disease / CVD) has been around for longer than you might think, with archeologists finding plaque build up in Egyptian mummies. The flavanoid* and polyphenol* anti-oxidant compounds found in Cacao have been used and studied throughout history for vasodilation (widening the blood vessels, allowing higher blood flow and in turn transfer of nutrients and oxygen), plus as anti-inflammatories and for the reduction of the build up of plaques in the arteries, all helping the heart function optimally.
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3) IMMUNE SUPPORT
Cacao is classified as an “IMMUNOMODULATOR” which essentially means it modulates the immune system; strengthening, balancing, supporting and regulating the immune system, optimising immune response. Research suggests that Cacao's Immunomodulatory effect originates from the polyphenol* anti-oxidants. anti-oxidants play an important role in preventing the body being put under stress from oxidation, Because Cacao has an effect on our gut (see number 5), it has also been suggested to further support our immune systems by reducing the bad bacteria during the intestinal immune response.
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4) ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Theobromine* is a bitter bioactive compound found in Cacao, this compound effects your mood in a similar way to caffeine, but without the unwanted side effects, it’s also been suggested to be an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. Interestingly, studies have shown that the theobromine* in Cacao aids the absorption of the polyphenols* (anti-oxidants) in Cacao.
(6) Inflammation and Immune function often go hand in hand, with depression / mood disorders often similarly linked. Anandamide (AEA) the compound responsible for the ‘bliss’ effect of Cacao, has been shown to potentially reduce inflammation and the breakdown of ‘tryptophan’ which is required in the body to produce another happy compound ‘serotonin’. So anandamide doesn't only help you feel blissful, but is also helps prevent the breakdown of other compounds that make you feel blissful - Nature is PHENOMENAL!
(5) (6) NOTE: Theobromine is the compound that can be toxic to dogs, cats and other animals, causing a variety of symptoms including; hyperactivity, trembling, vomiting, diarrhoea and in some instances seizures and possible death. This is why puppies can’t have chocolate. :(
5) PRE-BIOTIC
We hear a lot about pro-biotics, foods that contain the bacteria we want to add to our guts. But what is a pre-biotic? Well, it’s a food that promotes the growth of the these good bacteria. And Cacao does this too :)
The polyphenols* (anti-oxidants) in Cacao have been shown to have another health benefit, they help increase the healthy gut bacteria (Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli) we already have in our bellies. Plus, during the interaction between the gut bacteria and the polyphenols*, not only does the bacteria increase but the process encourages the absorption of the polyphenols*. It has been suggested that Cacao may also help those suffering from IBS (irritable bowl syndrome) because IBS can be caused by lower levels of the Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli bacteria in the gut, and Cacao has the ability to elevate these.
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