Many of us know what the cravings for a morning cup of coffee feel like. But for some, the jitters, crashes, and dependence on caffeine can leave you wanting more.
Here’s some of our favourite reasons to swap out your morning (or anytime) coffee for pure cacao.
1. Sustained Energy, No Crash
Ditch the afternoon slump! 100% Pure cacao contains theobromine, a gentler stimulant than caffeine that provides a sustained energy boost without the crash. Theobromine works by dilating blood vessels and increasing oxygen flow, leading to a more natural and longer-lasting energy increase.
Coffee provides a very different result! The high amounts of caffeine present provides a quick boost of energy by blocking adenosine, a neurotransmitter that makes you feel tired. However, this effect is temporary, and often leads to a crash as your body compensates.
2. Quality Sleep
This is a tricky one… How can cacao both energise and help you sleep? Well, it simply depends on how sensitive you are to stimulants. Yes, pure cacao contains the stimulant, theobromine, but it also contains magnesium which is known to relax the muscles and mind, often allowing us to fall into a deep sleep.
Coffee may seem like a good idea in the afternoon but caffeine can stay in your system for hours, interfering with sleep quality. This can lead to a cycle of dependence, as you crave more coffee the next day to combat fatigue caused by the previous night's poor sleep.
3. A Good Mood Day
Cacao is a natural mood elevator. It contains anandamide, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of happiness and well-being and also supports the production of serotonin, another key mood regulator. Say hello to a more positive outlook!
Coffee on the other hand can sometimes lead to anxiety and irritability, especially at higher doses. This is because it blocks receptors in the brain that promote feelings of tiredness, leading to a surge of adrenaline and mimicking symptoms of anxiety.
4. Nutrition Nutrition
Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, like magnesium and iron, pure cacao nourishes your body on a cellular level. It's also high in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.
5. Stress Less
Coffee can exacerbate stress hormone levels (hello dysregulated cortisol), especially in those who are already feeling anxious.
However, pure cacao is a great source of antioxidants and mood-boosting compounds that can help combat stress and anxiety. Studies suggest it may even help lower cortisol levels, a key stress hormone.
A Ritual for Relaxation
Coffee might be a quick grab-and-go, but Nibbed pure cacao is the perfect ritual for a moment to yourself during a busy day. Making a hot cacao can help you set intentions and start your day with mindfulness.
So, how do you make the switch?
Start by swapping out one coffee a day for a hot cacao, gradually reducing your coffee intake. You could choose to have your morning coffee, and make the afternoon one a cacao instead. 100% pure cacao can be enjoyed hot or cold, blended with your favourite milk or nut butter, and even spiced up with a pinch of salt, vanilla or cinnamon.
Remember
Pure cacao is a different experience than coffee. It's a chance to connect with yourself, nourish your body, and cultivate a calmer, more centred you. So, ditch the jitters and embrace the ritual. You might be surprised at the positive change a cup of hot cacao can bring.
