Did you know that in the Aztec society, Cacao or chocolate was known as “food of the gods” and, it was recognized as a superior aliment reserved for warriors, nobility and priests?
Today, dark chocolate and raw cacao are still considered superfoods high in manganese, copper, iron, magnesium, fiber, phosphorus and antioxidants flavonols and theobromine. By Containing antioxidants, diuretic, stimulant and nutritive properties, cacao helps promote cardiovascular healthy and induces an overall sense of well-being while enhancing mood, supporting a positive mental state and increasing alertness.
In order to make the most out of this superfood, rather than simply eating a chunk of dark chocolate, you can indulge the same health benefits consuming less fat, sugar and fewer calories by using raw cacao powder to prepare a delicious but still healthy and powerful beverage that will deliver the energy you need for training.
Power punch vegan chocolate shake
Ingredients:
1 tbsp raw cacao nibs
1 tbsp organic raw cocoa powder
6-7 raw cashews
2 tbsp honey
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp unsweetened almond butter
1/3 ripe banana
1/3 cup of unsweetened coconut or rice milk
1/2 cup coconut water
1/2 avocado
2 or 3 ice cubes
Instructions:
Blend all the ingredients together, sprinkle raw cacao nibs on top and drink it fresh.
Enjoy and be healthy!
Sources:
SUPERFOODS The healthiest foods on the planet by Tonia Reinhard
Herbal Remedies by Andrew Chevallier
100 foods to stay young by Charlotte Watts
SuperFoods RX by Steven Pratt, MD and Kathy Matthews
The post Lifestyle: Power Punch Vegan Chocolate Shake first appeared on Graciemag.