History tells us that chocolate has always been a pretty big deal. Chocolate comes from the cacao tree. In 1753 the Swedish scientist Carl Linnaeus named the cacao tree “Theobroma cacao” or “Food of the Gods.” Much earlier than this, the Aztecs and Mayans placed such a high value on the beans that they used them as currency. But beyond cacao’s unique and amazing taste, it has incredible health benefits!

Cacao Beans

Cacao has MORE antioxidants than any other food on earth! Yep, more than blueberries, goji berries and red wine combined. It also has very high levels of magnesium, zinc, iron, chromium and copper to name a few. *Note-these benefits are found in raw cacao products, so unfortunately you won’t get these benefits by eating a Hershey’s milk chocolate bar. While raw is best, you can still enjoy the positive effects of dark chocolate – just look for a brand that contains at least 70% cocoa (Cocoa is what cacao is called after it has been processed). Studies have shown that just an ounce a day of dark chocolate is enough to reap the rewards (but who’s counting 😉 )

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Cacao Tree

“The superiority of chocolate, both for health and nourishment, will soon give it the same preference over tea and coffee in America which it has in Spain.” – Thomas Jefferson

“Nine out of ten people like chocolate. The tenth person always lies.” – John Q. Tullius

“The greatest tragedies were written by the Greek Sophocles and English Shakespeare. Neither knew chocolate.” -Sandra Boynton

“The divine drink which builds up resistance and fights fatigue. A cup of this precious drink permits man to walk for a whole day without food.” – Hernando Cortés (1519)

<3 Happy Valentines Day! <3