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The benefits of ceremonial cacao for you as an athlete

As an athlete, you’re always looking for ways to improve your performance and speed up your recovery. What if I told you that cacao, that delicious ingredient we often think of when we think of chocolate, can be a real game changer? Yes, raw cacao offers much more than just a delicious taste – it’s a natural powerhouse that fits perfectly into an active lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking for a natural pre-workout boost or a recovery aid after intense exercise, cacao offers a wide range of benefits. In this blog, we’ll discuss why cacao can be an essential addition to your fitness routine.

Cacao before your workout:

  • A natural energy boost: Energy without the crashes, cacao contains theobromine, a mild stimulant that gives you an energy boost without the spikes and crashes you sometimes experience with caffeine. It helps you stay alert and focused so you can get the most out of your workout.

  • Improved blood circulation: The flavonoids in cocoa help relax and dilate blood vessels, which improves blood circulation. This allows your muscles to receive more oxygen and nutrients, which can improve your performance and endurance.

  • Mood booster: Cacao promotes the production of endorphins and serotonin, which improves your mood and increases your motivation to exercise. It prepares you to perform at your best both physically and mentally.

Recipe as a pre-workout:

  • 20 to 30 grams of ceremonial cacao

  • 150-200 ml (vegetable) milk

  • pinch of cinnamon

  • Small pinch of salt

  • teaspoon honey or agave syrup

  • option: 2 medjool dates for extra carbohydrates

Preparation

  1. For one cup, cut the cocoa on a cutting board with a kitchen knife.

  2. Heat 150 ml (vegetable) milk in a pan

  3. Place all ingredients in a blender with the warm milk or, if you are using a hand blender, place everything in a pan.

  4. Mix everything together with a hand blender or a blender.

  5. Pour it into your favorite cup!

Cocoa after your workout:

1. Faster recovery and less muscle pain: Cocoa is rich in magnesium, a mineral that helps with muscle relaxation and prevents cramps. In addition, magnesium supports the recovery process of your muscles after exercise.

2. Anti-inflammatory effect: The antioxidants in cocoa fight free radicals produced during intense exercise. This reduces muscle damage and inflammation, which helps you recover faster.


3. Recharge energy: Combine cacao with a natural source of protein, such as collagen powder, (vegan) protein powder or nuts (pasta). This ensures that your muscles can recover well and your body is ready for the next training.

4. Boost your immune system: After intense exercise, your immune system can temporarily weaken. The antioxidants and minerals in cacao support your immune system and protect your body.

Ingredients

  • 20 to 30 grams of ceremonial cacao

  • 150-200 ml (vegetable) milk

  • 1 scoop collagen powder (optional if you want more protein in your cacao drink)

  • pinch of cinnamon

  • teaspoon honey or agave syrup

Preparation

  1. For one cup, cut the cocoa on a cutting board with a kitchen knife.

  2. Heat 150 ml (vegetable) milk in a pan

  3. Place all ingredients in a blender with the warm milk or, if you are using a hand blender, place everything in a pan.

  4. Mix everything together with a hand blender or a blender.

  5. Pour it into your favorite cup!

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