Chocolate is probably one of the most delicious creations on the planet. It’s simple to say that it is scrumptious, but we have one question for you: Do you know the difference between cocoa and cacao? We can tell you that the difference is not a matter of mispronunciation. It goes much deeper than that.
Cacao and cocoa start from the same place, even though they end up being completely different products. Not to mention, they both have different effects on the body. The difference between them is how they are processed. If you are familiar with the cleanse-approved recipes we post on our website, you will know that raw cacao is acceptable to eat while cleansing. Raw cacao beans look like coffee beans and have a slightly bitter taste. Chocolate is the healthiest when eaten in the form of raw cacao.
Because health articles circulate the web discussing the benefits of eating chocolate, it is integral to know that cocoa and cacao are not the same. Cocoa starts out like cacao, but it is heated at high temperatures that yield different flavors and health benefits. Cacao contains powerful antioxidants, while the process of making cocoa alters the molecular composition of the beans, ultimately changing their chemical structure and decreasing the nutritional value.
A great comparison is raw fruits and vegetables to cooked fruits or vegetables. The heat kills the nutritional value and you don’t reap the full benefits of the raw versions. And the nutritional content may diminish depending on what you add to the cooked veggies, i.e. salt, butter, cheese, or other unhealthy ingredients.
We don’t want you to avoid chocolate on National Chocolate Day; rather, we just want you to use raw cacao to make your recipes. Check out the recipes below for inspiration.
Raw Walnut Brownies
You don’t have to stop eating dessert just because you are on a raw foods diet. Try making these raw brownies to get your chocolate fix.
Click here to make the recipe.
Turmeric Hot Chocolate
Are you looking for a healthier hot chocolate option during these colder months? It’s time to try this warming, anti-inflammatory beverage!
Click here to make the recipe.
Chocolate Banana Chia Seed Pudding
Want to eat chocolate for breakfast without feeling guilty? Sounds like you need this nutrient dense chia pudding to rev up your mornings.
Click here to make the recipe.
2-Ingredient Chocolate Banana Ice Cream
This is the perfect guilt-free treat for warm summer days. No ice cream machine needed and it’s ready in under 5 minutes!
Click here to make the recipe.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
