Cacao Elixir: Healthy, Indulgent, Delicious.
Cacao Elixir, mmmmm. Say it again. Cacao Elixir. Yes, oh yes. Even the name sounds indulgent and delicious. But did you know that cocoa also has tons of health benefits? Today I am serving up a recipe to battle the sweet tooth while packing a healthy punch of flavonoids, antioxidants, and mood boosting ingredients. You know those days when the sweet tooth is real? When your brain has one single repetitive focus, and that focus is on the almighty chocolate? You know those days, right? Sometimes it’s stress related, sometimes hormonal. But whatever the reason, chocolat always seems to do the trick. I’ve combined some of my favorite healthy ingredients to give you the perfect, indulgent answer to your chocolate craving that is totally supportive to your health and wellness goals. This Cacao Elixir combines the health benefits of MCT oil with nutrient packed maple syrup. But as a bonus, it also acts as a perfect pick-me-up with coffee as the base (you can substitute with chamomile tea or decaf coffee if you’re wanting it for bed-time).A couple of facts that make this drink a true elixir:
Cacao has been proven to be an amazing source of magnesium. Magnesium. is associated with healthy blood pressure, lower risk of cardio vascular disease, a healthy nervous system, and lower risk of diabetes (Volpe, 2014)….score!!
The flavonoids found in cacao help your body process nitric oxide, which is why hot cocoa can improve blood flow, help lower your blood pressure and improve heart health.
Maple syrup is packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, making it a much healthier choice than other sweeteners. The medical journal Pharmaceutical Biology revealed that pure maple syrup contains up to 24 different antioxidants. According to my man, Dr Axe These antioxidants are beneficial for reducing free radical damage that can cause inflammation and contribute to the formation of various chronic diseases.
MCT oil adds a yummy coconut undertone to the elixir. “MCTs” are medium-chain triglycerides, a form of saturated fatty acid that have loads of healthy benefits ranging from weight management to improve cognitive functioning. A few other benefits include increased focus and energy levels. Increased metabolism and less mood swings can also be expected from normal consumption of MCT’s.
With all of the health advantages of this treat, it really is a true elixir. So next time you find yourself reaching for a candy bar or a treat loaded with processed sugar make this Cacao Elixir instead! This drink is best enjoyed blended rather than stirred. I recently bought this handy dandy hand mixer and love it. It’s perfect for small batch drinks like this and your regular morning bullet coffee. Makes you feel super fancy pants.
To make this Cacao Elixir combine the following ingredients in your coffee mug then blend with a hand mixer (or in a blender) 1 10-oz cup of black coffee 1 to 1.5 heaping tsp raw, organic cacao powder1 tsp organic maple syrup1 tsp MCT oil Blend, Sip, Indulge, and enjoy the good vibes.
For a real treat try this Elixir with this plantain recipe Meg Sylvester is a Spiritual Life Coach who combines the science of functional medicine with metaphysical principles to help her clients release their blocks to well-being. She empowers her clients with tools, strategies and guidance so that they can connect to the health, vitality and well-being they desire. To learn more about how you can work with Meg click here.