Dark chocolate of at least 70% or above cocoa solids is classified as a true super-food. Cacao
Nibs take it to the next level.
Cacao Nibs are essentially like eating the cacao bean itself as
they have been roasted, separated from their husks and broken into smaller pieces.
When we use the word ‘Cocoa‘ it is usually in reference to the processed, final product. (The
processing of Cocao causes the loss of flavanols in most commercially available cocoas and
many chocolates.) Cacao Nibs are the least processed and most natural form of chocolate.
The lack of processing and sugars do give them a bit of an acquired taste. They have a distinctive
bitter but somewhat nutty flavor. Keeping them unprocessed and closest to natural form is
when we reap the most benefits from this awesome Super-food. They have lots of uses: add
them into smoothies, topping on desserts, use them in baking or even just snack on right out
Dark chocolate of at least 70% or above cocoa solids is classified as a true super-food. Cacao
Nibs take it to the next level. Cacao Nibs are essentially like eating the cacao bean itself as
they have been roasted, separated from their husks and broken into smaller pieces.
When we use the word ‘Cocoa‘ it is usually in reference to the processed, final product. (The
processing of Cocao causes the loss of flavanols in most commercially available cocoas and
many chocolates.) Cacao Nibs are the least processed and most natural form of chocolate.
The lack of processing and sugars do give them a bit of an acquired taste. They have a distinctive
bitter but somewhat nutty flavor. Keeping them unprocessed and closest to natural form is
when we reap the most benefits from this awesome Super-food.
They have a lot of uses: add
them into smoothies, topping on desserts, use them in baking or even just snack on right out
of the tin. (Go to next page to see a list of benefits received from eating Cacoa Nibs.)
of the tin. (Go to next page to see a list of benefits received from eating Cacoa Nibs.)
Great nutritional benefits from eating this great, ancient ingredient.
Antioxidant
In my opinion, this is the best reason to eat Cacao Nibs or dark chocolate in general. Antioxidants help
fight off free radical damage in the body, which can cause DNA damage, premature aging and even
cancers. Cacao is one of the highest sources of antioxidants and low cal ;)
Flavonoids
Flavonoids come from plants and they are similar to antioxidants in that they have a free radical
scavenging capacity and have anti-cancer. We get flavonoids from fruits, vegetables, teas, wine and
cacao.
Can Help Fight Cardiovascular Disease
Studies link that as little as 5 grams of cacao powder is sufficient to elicit significant vasodilation of
the brachial artery. There is a positive relationship between the intake of flavonoid rich foods such as
cacao and lower rates of cardiovascular-related mortality.
Fiber
A huge amount of fiber (9 grams) can be found in a one ounce serving of Cacao Nibs. There are many
benefits of fiber and here are a few: help lower blood cholesterol, lower blood pressure, stabilize insulin
(blood-sugar) as well as helping keep bowel movements regular.
Magnesium
A one ounce serving of Cacao Nibs equals 64 milligrams of magnesium. This makes it one of the best
dietary sources of it. Magnesium helps with functions in the body such as:
• protein synthesis • muscle and nerve function • blood glucose control • blood pressure regulation
Potassium
A one ounce serving is equal to 183 mg of potassium. Potassium is an electrolyte and is crucial for life.
It is key in heart, kidneys and other organs to function properly.
Improved Mood
Chocolate and cacao help stimulate the brain into releasing neurotransmitters. One of those unique
neurotransmitters released by cacao is phenylethylamine. This, in turn, releases endorphins giving us
alertness, contentment and a better sense of well-being.
Iron
Found in Cacao Nibs and is necessary for red blood cell production. An ounce of the raw nibs has six
per cent of your recommended daily iron intake. There is .7mg of Iron in 1 tbsp of Cacao Nibs.
More Calcium Than Cow’s Milk
Cacoa has more calcium than cow’s milk: 160mg per 100g vs only 125mg per 100ml of milk. Wow!
*Remember that Cacao contains caffeine so consume responsibly.
