I’ve Got a Golden Ticket for Healthy Snacking: The Benefits of Cacao Nibs

Do you love snacking on chocolate, but feel guilty about the added sugars and calories? Look no further than cacao nibs, the natural form of chocolate that is packed with nutrients and health benefits.

The history of chocolate goes back thousands of years, with the Aztecs grinding up cocoa beans and combining them with other ingredients to make a bitter, gritty drink. The Spanish were the first to spread chocolate, and by the 17th century it was starting to show up in European ports.

Cacao nibs are essentially the roasted, separated, and broken pieces of the cacao bean, the plant which all forms of chocolate come from. These natural nibs have a distinctive bitter but nutty flavor and can be used in smoothies, desserts, baking, or snack on right out of the bag.

Here are 7 reasons why you should add cacao nibs to your healthy snack arsenal:

1. Antioxidants: Cacao nibs are rich in antioxidants which help fight off free radical damage in the body, preventing DNA damage, premature aging, and even cancers.

2. Flavonoids: These plant-based nutrients have free radical scavenging capacity, anti-cancer properties, and potential for anti-HIV function. Cacao is one of the highest sources of flavonoids.

3. Cardiovascular health: Consumption of flavonoid-rich foods, like cacao, can reduce the risk of cardiovascular-related mortality. Studies have shown that cacao can significantly improve vasodilation of the brachial artery with just 5 grams of cacao powder.

4. Fiber: One ounce serving of cacao nibs contains 9 grams of fiber which can help control blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and lower blood cholesterol while keeping bowel movements regular.

5. Magnesium: Cacao nibs contain 64 milligrams of magnesium per one ounce serving, making it one of the best dietary sources of this essential nutrient for protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose and pressure regulation.

6. Potassium: One ounce of cacao nibs offers 183mg of potassium, which plays a crucial role in the proper function of the heart, kidneys, and other organs.

7. Mood-boosting: Cacao contains phenylethylamine, a neurotransmitter that triggers the release of endorphins, giving us a better sense of well-being, alertness, and contentment.

Cacao nibs are easy to find at grocery stores or bulk food stores and can be mixed with nuts like almonds for a delicious and healthy snack. Add an ounce or two a day to reap the benefits of this ancient ingredient. As the famous line from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory goes, “Nib High Football Rules!!”