Who doesn’t like chocolate? This recipe below is quick to make, taste delicious and it’s healthy and rich in antioxidants.. The main ingredients for the chocolate are: coconut oil, cacao powder, maple syrup the rest is optional. It’s all depend on your taste. The possibilities are endless. I’ll give you recipe that is one of my favourite so far.

• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 2/3 cup cacao powder
• 1/4 cup mixed chopped nuts
• 1 tbsp. raw almond butter
• 4 tbsp. raw maple syrup
• 2 tsp. vanilla powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• Pinch of salt

Melt but don’t cook coconut oil. Let it cool. Next add all ingredients: cacao powder, nuts, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla powder, cayenne pepper and salt. Spread it out on a baking tray covered with parchment paper. Put it in the fridge then cut it into chunks. This chocolate is really addictive, try not to eat all at once.

You could also add peppermint extract, cocoa nibs, dried fruits or blueberries (I’ve tried and tasted lovely).

Below you will find some health benefits of cacao powder and coconut oil.

Cacao:

High in antioxidants which protects the cells from toxins and also promotes health in many ways such as:

• Improving circulation an lower blood pressure
• Promotes cardiovascular function & health
• Neutralizes free radicals
• Can improve digestion
• Can prevent premature aging
• Create loads of energy and combat fatigue

Also chocolate is popular food when we need ‘cheering up’, recent researches has discovered cacao contains chemicals (Phenylethylamine and Serotonine) which are proven to be present in the brains of people when they are happy, more relaxed, playful and creative.

Vitamins and minerals:

• Magnesium, and other essential minerals such as calcium, sulfur, zinc, iron, copper, potassium, and manganese
• Polyphenols, antioxidant rich flavonoids
• Vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B9, C, E
• Essential heart-healthy fat: oleic acid a monounsaturated fat
• Protein
• Fiber

Coconut Oil 

Potential internal benefits of coconut oil include:

• Anti-cancer
• Alzheimer’s treatment
• Dental health including cavity prevention and reversal
• Diabetes management
• Weight loss aid
• Improved digestion
• Increased immune function
• Heart disease prevention

Also the oil possesses antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant properties. The lauric, capric and caprylic acids within the oil are credited with many of these benefits. It’s the lauric acid, for instance, that is converted into monolaurin which in in turn fights the bugs associated with herpes, giardia, listeria, influenza, and even HIV.

Vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamins: E , K
• Iron

*I’ve collected information from various websites and put it in one.

**The content of this page is provided for educational purposes only, and should not be considered as medical advice. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice.