Drinking cacao on an empty stomach is a practice that has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous potential health benefits. Cacao, in its purest form, is a powerhouse of nutrients, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds.
Consuming it on an empty stomach is thought to amplify these benefits by allowing the body to absorb the nutrients more efficiently. Below, we’ll break down the key benefits of drinking cacao first thing in the morning, as you can see this website.
1. Boosts Mood And Reduces Stress
Cacao And Endorphin Production
Cacao is known for its ability to promote the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. Endorphins play a crucial role in improving mood and overall happiness. Drinking cacao on an empty stomach helps speed up the absorption of phenylethylamine (PEA), a compound in cacao that stimulates endorphin production.
- Instant mood lift: The faster absorption of PEA may provide a quick and noticeable boost in mood.
- Sustained positive feelings: This mood enhancement can last throughout the day, making cacao a great choice for starting your morning with positivity.
Stress-Reducing Magnesium
Cacao is rich in magnesium, a mineral known for its ability to reduce stress levels. Magnesium helps to regulate the body’s stress-response system by lowering cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress. On an empty stomach, magnesium is absorbed more effectively, helping to reduce anxiety and promote calmness.
- Magnesium helps: Reduces muscle tension, promoting relaxation.
- Regulates cortisol: Helps in preventing excessive cortisol production, which can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety.
2. Increases Energy And Focus
Drinking cacao on an empty stomach can provide a steady, long-lasting energy boost without the jitteriness commonly associated with coffee. Here’s why:
Theobromine And Caffeine For Enhanced Focus
Cacao contains theobromine, a compound similar to caffeine but with a gentler, longer-lasting effect. Theobromine, combined with small amounts of caffeine, provides a smooth energy boost, helping you feel more alert and focused without the rapid spike and crash associated with coffee.
- Steady energy boost: Cacao provides a more sustained form of energy.
- Enhanced mental clarity: The combination of caffeine and theobromine supports mental sharpness and focus.
No Jitters Or Crashes
Unlike coffee, which can sometimes lead to feelings of jitteriness or an energy crash, cacao’s theobromine provides a milder, steadier source of energy.
- Smooth, consistent energy: The theobromine in cacao allows for a more gradual increase in energy, preventing the abrupt energy dips often seen with coffee.
- Fewer side effects: Cacao is less likely to cause anxiety or nervousness.
3. Supports Heart Health
Cacao, especially in its pure form, is packed with heart-healthy nutrients. Drinking cacao on an empty stomach can offer numerous benefits for cardiovascular health:
High Antioxidant Content
Cacao is a rich source of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which help reduce oxidative stress and protect the heart. These antioxidants neutralise free radicals, which are harmful compounds that can damage cells and increase the risk of heart disease. Drinking cacao first thing in the morning ensures that your body absorbs these antioxidants efficiently.
- Flavonoids reduce oxidative stress: Helps protect the heart by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
- Supports healthy cholesterol levels: The antioxidants in cacao may help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol, contributing to overall heart health.
Improved Blood Flow And Circulation
Cacao also contains compounds that support nitric oxide production, which helps relax blood vessels and improve blood circulation. Drinking cacao on an empty stomach can maximise the absorption of these compounds, promoting better oxygen delivery to vital organs and improving overall cardiovascular function.
- Better circulation: Enhanced blood flow reduces the risk of heart disease and supports healthy blood pressure.
- Oxygen transport: Improved circulation ensures your body’s tissues receive adequate oxygen, contributing to overall vitality.
4. Aids Digestion And Gut Health
Consuming cacao on an empty stomach can also have significant benefits for your digestive system:
Supports Healthy Digestion
Cacao is high in fibre, which helps regulate digestion by promoting regular bowel movements. Drinking cacao on an empty stomach ensures that the fibre is absorbed more effectively, helping to clear out the digestive tract and prevent constipation.
- Fibre promotes regularity: Helps to move waste through the digestive system, preventing bloating and constipation.
- Stimulates stomach acid: Cacao helps stimulate the production of gastric juices, which can aid in breaking down food more efficiently.
Promotes Gut Health
In addition to fibre, cacao contains prebiotics that support the growth of healthy gut bacteria. A balanced gut microbiome is essential for optimal digestion, immune function, and overall well-being.
- Prebiotic properties: Cacao helps nourish beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a healthy microbiome.
- Supports digestion: By promoting the growth of good bacteria, cacao contributes to better overall digestive health.
5. Improves Skin Health
Drinking cacao on an empty stomach may also contribute to healthier, more radiant skin. Here’s how:
Antioxidants And Skin Repair
Cacao is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which protect the skin from environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution. These antioxidants help neutralise free radicals that can damage skin cells, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines.
- Skin protection: The antioxidants in cacao help protect the skin from oxidative damage, which can accelerate aging.
- Collagen support: Antioxidants support the skin’s collagen production, promoting elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Hydrates The Skin
Cacao also contains magnesium, which helps to maintain hydration levels in the skin. Drinking cacao on an empty stomach ensures that the body absorbs this vital mineral, helping to keep the skin moisturised and glowing.
- Magnesium for skin health: Supports skin hydration and helps prevent dryness.
- Youthful glow: Regular consumption of cacao can contribute to a brighter, more even complexion.
6. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
For those looking to stabilise blood sugar levels, drinking cacao on an empty stomach can be beneficial:
Low Glycemic Index Of Cacao
Cacao has a low glycemic index (GI), meaning it does not cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. By drinking cacao on an empty stomach, you can help stabilise your blood sugar levels for the rest of the day, preventing energy crashes and hunger pangs.
- Slow release of sugar: Cacao helps maintain steady blood sugar levels by providing a slow, sustained release of energy.
- Prevents cravings: Stabilising blood sugar helps reduce cravings for sugary or processed foods.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity
Some studies suggest that the polyphenols in cacao may help improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Drinking cacao on an empty stomach allows for optimal absorption of these beneficial compounds, which may help maintain healthy blood sugar levels over time.
- Better insulin function: Cacao’s polyphenols may improve the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar.
- Supports metabolic health: Regular consumption of cacao can contribute to better overall metabolic function.
7. Supports Detoxification
Drinking cacao on an empty stomach can also support the body’s natural detoxification processes:
Antioxidants For Detoxification
Cacao is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralise free radicals and support the liver in detoxifying the body. Drinking cacao first thing in the morning allows the body to absorb these detoxifying compounds more effectively.
- Neutralises toxins: The antioxidants in cacao help eliminate free radicals and toxins from the body.
- Supports liver function: Cacao aids the liver’s detoxification process, ensuring that waste products are efficiently removed.
Cleanses The Digestive System
The fibre in cacao not only supports digestion but also acts as a natural cleanser for the digestive tract. Drinking cacao on an empty stomach ensures that the body can better eliminate waste and toxins, promoting overall health.
- Digestive system cleanse: Helps flush out toxins from the digestive tract.
- Promotes regularity: The fibre in cacao ensures that waste is moved through the intestines efficiently.
Conclusion
Drinking cacao on an empty stomach provides a wide range of health benefits. From boosting mood and energy to supporting heart health, digestion, and detoxification, cacao is a powerful superfood that can be easily incorporated into your morning routine.
The nutrients and antioxidants found in cacao work synergistically to promote overall well-being, making it an ideal choice for those looking to improve their health naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Drink Cacao On An Empty Stomach Every Day?
Yes, drinking cacao on an empty stomach can be beneficial if consumed in moderation. It can help boost mood, increase energy, and support digestion. However, it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly.
Is Cacao A Good Alternative To Coffee In The Morning?
Cacao is a great alternative to coffee, offering a more gentle and sustained energy boost. Theobromine in cacao provides a smoother energy lift, while the antioxidants and magnesium contribute to overall well-being.
Does Drinking Cacao Help With Weight Loss?
Cacao can support weight management by suppressing appetite and improving metabolism. The fibre content helps you feel fuller for longer, while the thermogenic properties of cacao may assist in burning calories. However, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and exercise routine.