Cacao is the purest form of chocolate and has amazing heath benefits.
This is because cocoa is full of flavanols or flavanoids, a class of antioxidants that improve blood flow, protect our cells from damage, and reduce inflammation (Kahn 2014, Monagas 2009).
Flavonoids are considered a brain nutrient due to its positive impact on mental processing speed, memory, and learning (Fisher 2006, Alharbi 2015, Pipingas 2008). They can improve brain function and memory by enhancing neuroplasticity and increasing blood flow to the brain (Francis 2006, Desideri 2012, Berk 2018(b)).
Additionally, this nutrient found in most colorful vegetables and fruit has proven to lower levels of mental fatigue, free radicals, and inflammation which, in turn, improves cognitive performance (Scholey 2010, Ryan 2008).
We talk a lot about blood sugar health health at Resist. Blood sugar rollercoasters are no fun, and we've all been victims of those mid-afternoon crashes or late-night cravings.
With so many benefits, we highly recommend introducing a high quality dark chocolate, cacao nibs, or cacao chips into your diet. You can also include treats and snacks that include cacao. Our favorite is the Cinnamon Chocolate Chip protein bar from Resist since it has added fiber, and protein (without any gums, fillers, or artificial ingredients!).
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