Chocolate, the beloved treat, has an incredible history dating back to Central America and Mexico. Once used as a currency, it has now become one of the centerpieces of the pastry and culinary world. Theobroma Cacao, known as "food of the gods," is the tree from which chocolate is derived. Growing in hot, rainy tropical climates within 20 degrees from the equator, these trees can reach up to 25 feet tall. The fruit of these trees is harvested throughout the year and then sliced open to gather the beans. These beans are then laid out to dry or "sweat" for a few days, after which they are fermented, dried, and shipped to target locations for further processing. One pound of chocolate requires 400 beans, and each pod contains 20-50 beans.
Our Ketogeek Chocolate Fudge Energy Pods contain organic cocoa, which has numerous health benefits that can be obtained by consuming chocolate regularly. We use unsweetened cocoa powder that has a high dosage of bioactive compounds such as flavanols, which vary based on how the cocoa is processed.
Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy by incorporating chocolate into your diet:
HIGH NUTRIENT VALUE
Compared to tea and wine, chocolate has a far superior profile of phytonutrient properties. It is also an excellent source of magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, manganese, and copper.
BRAIN HEALTH
Epicatechin, the most abundant flavonoid in chocolate, can help with learning and memory functions, mood enhancement under stress, calmness, and have a neuroprotective effect while aging. It may also enhance blood flow to the brain, specifically the blood flow to gray matter.
IMPROVED BLOOD FLOW
Cocoa powder contains flavonoids that can improve flow-mediated dilation and improve endothelial function while also increasing the diameter of arteries. Daily intake of cocoa and a diet rich in flavanols may help improve vascular dysfunction. Several observational studies have shown the potential benefits of flavonoid-rich foods to improve blood pressure.
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Consuming dark chocolate has shown to help elderly patients with peripheral artery diseases by increasing their total walking distance. The results were obtained possibly by the reduction in oxidative stress.
SKIN HEALTH
Long-term consumption of cocoa can potentially help decrease skin roughness, protection against UV, improvement in skin blood regulation, and affect hydration. It can also have positive effects on skin wrinkles and skin elasticity.
FAT LOSS
Consuming real cocoa can help with fat loss and obesity by increasing thermogenesis combined with the modulation of lipid metabolism. Thermogenesis is the process of utilizing stored body fat to produce heat.
TASTES FLIPPIN' AWESOME
Who can deny the mouth-watering taste of chocolate? From Valentine's Day to a daily snack, chocolate is a symbol of love and commitment. It adds to the occasion and brings forth joy to the memories. Sometimes, it's time to just put down the science and relish the human experience of living, being with people you love, and having a bite of chocolate. Our Ketogeek Chocolate Fudge Energy Pods are made from locally sourced organic cocoa and are the perfect complement to a low-carb, ketogenic, or carnivorous diet. With the addition of high-quality saturated fats such as pasture-fed ghee and MCT oil, our Energy Pods are a delicious and healthy snack that you can enjoy every day!
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the history of chocolate is rich and fascinating, with its origins tracing back thousands of years to Central America and Mexico. Today, it remains a beloved staple in our diets and is a center piece of the pastry and culinary world. But chocolate isn't just delicious, it also has some incredible potential health benefits. From improving brain function and blood flow, to helping with cardiovascular health, skin health, and even aiding in fat loss, chocolate truly is a superfood.
At Ketogeek, we've harnessed the power of organic cocoa to create our Ketogeek Chocolate Fudge Energy Pods. With locally sourced organic cocoa, high quality saturated fats like pasture-fed Ghee & MCT Oil, and no added sugar or sodium, our Energy Pods are a healthy and delicious meal replacement that can help you stay focused, energized, and on-the-go. They're perfect for anyone on a low-carb, ketogenic or carnivorous diet, or for endurance athletes looking for an all-in-one solution.