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A nutritionist claims that combining coffee with a household favorite can help improve your mood, alertness, and mental clarity—and it’s a quick and easy addition to your morning routine.
Coffee lovers might be surprised to learn that adding certain ingredients to their beloved beverage not only amplifies the flavor profile but could also boost their health.
Indeed, a video posted on TikTok by health guru Dr. Karan Rajan and nutrition expert Corey Rodriguez praises the merits of “food synergy”—the concept of pairing specific food items to heighten their health benefits.
So, when prepping your energizing morning coffee, reach for cocoa to enhance the experience. Rodriguez said: “If you mix cocoa into your coffee, then the caffeine in the coffee and the theobromine in the cocoa work together to enhance mood, alertness, and mental clarity.”
When it comes to choosing between cocoa and cacao, it pays to know your stuff. Raw cacao, which you can buy on Amazon, skips the heavy processing scene, keeping most of its nutritional value and boasting a deeper flavor.
On the other hand, cocoa powder, a staple at local groceries, undergoes more intense heat processing and may often include unnecessary artificial flavors or sugars.
Seen as the ‘healthier’ alternative, raw cacao is the most popular due to its minimally processed nature, yet both cocoa and cacao have their own perks if enjoyed responsibly.
Numerous studies have found that polyphenols, like those in cocoa, can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases by improving brain function and blood flow.
These essential compounds have also been linked to better blood sugar levels. However, it’s important to note that processing and heating cocoa can lead to a loss of these beneficial properties.
Raw cacao, however, might be an even healthier choice. Experts at Healthline consider it a superfood, touting some of the strongest antioxidant properties.
Anti-inflammatory cacao reduces blood pressure, boosts good cholesterol, lowers bad cholesterol, and provides cognitive benefits.
With its mood-boosting and anti-depressive effects, cacao is also excellent for promoting brain health.
