Superfood Series: KM's Organics Raw Cacao Nibs

One of my goals this 2018 is to eat healthier (because my latest lipid profile test result is not that good) and to write more articles about healthy eating aside from doing DIY green beauty projects. For the past few days, I was busy looking for a one-stop online shop in the Philippines that sells hard-to-find healthy items (e.g. chia seeds, flax seeds, etc.) at an affordable price. Luckily, I found KM’s Organics – a family-owned online business that sells healthy food and drink that are categorized as “superfood” because they are packed with nutrients and health benefits. I ordered a couple of items to try from their shop based on the recommendation of the owner who is very accommodating J

This first product that I tried (and is the focus of this article) is KM’s Organics Raw Cacao Nibs which comes in a resealable packaging to maintain its freshness. First of all, you might wonder, what are cacao nibs and how are they different from chocolates? Cacao nibs are simply cacao beans that have been dried, roasted, removed from the shell and crushed into smaller pieces. Cacao nibs are considered the purest form of chocolate. Actually, they’re like dark chocolate minus the sugar. Cacao nibs are bitter and have strong chocolatey aroma and raw taste. It actually took me some time to get used to the bitter taste but after a while I’m already addicted to it. Always remember that the more bitter and less processed the chocolate is, the more antioxidants and nutrients it contains. This makes cacao nibs a lot better choice than your typical grocery-bought dark chocolates.

Health Benefits of Raw Cacao Nibs

1. Regulates Bowel Movement

Cacao nibs are rich in fiber. In fact, approximately 1 cup of raw cacao nibs contains 29 grams of dietary fiber. The recommended daily dietary fiber intake of a healthy person should be 25 – 30 grams. If you are constipated, then try to include raw cacao nibs in your daily diet to help keep your bowel movement regular. High-fiber cacao nibs also make you feel full for hours after you eat. It’s a great way to control your constant food cravings.

2. Protects the Heart from Cardiovascular Diseases

One of the most important compounds of cacao nibs is flavonoids. Flavonoids are antioxidants that can help prevent heart disease and stroke by protecting the arteries in your heart and brain. Raw cacao nibs have a high concentration of flavonoids and have been shown to lower blood pressure.

3. Improves Bone and Muscle Health

Raw cacao nibs are one of the highest sources of magnesium. A cup of cacao nibs contains 429 mg of magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in our body. It improves bone formation in order to lower the risk of developing osteoporosis. Magnesium also improves muscle and nerve functions.

4. Boosts Your Mood

If you’re feeling down for the day, eating just a few teaspoons of raw cacao nibs can definitely improve your mood. Cacao nibs trigger the release of brain inducing chemicals like endorphin and serotonin that are known as “feel-good” hormones.

How to Use Raw Cacao Nibs

1. Replace Your Cup of Coffee with Brewed Cacao Nibs

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to your regular cup of coffee, then brewed cacao nibs are the answer to your prayers. Cacao nibs have less caffeine content than coffee beans. Simply grind the cacao nibs and use them in place of coffee beans in your coffee maker. You can also mix equal parts coffee beans and cacao nibs for a delicious mocha drink. No coffee maker? Why not try this cold-brewed cacao drink that doesn’t need any coffee machine.

2. Yoghurt or Ice Cream Toppings

Add some extra crunch and nutrition to plain yoghurt or vanilla ice cream with a few teaspoons of raw cacao nibs. This is actually my favorite healthy snack since I started my diet. I usually add a teaspoon of cacao nibs on top of frozen Greek yoghurt. The bitterness of cacao nibs complements the sourness of the yoghurt.

3. Add Chocolatey Flavor to Smoothies

Take your morning smoothies to the next level by adding raw cacao nibs. You can try this vegan Cacao Coffee Banana Smoothie for a start. 

4. Salad with Cacao Vinaigrette

Who could have thought that you can actually make a salad dressing using cacao nibs? Yes, it’s possible. I found this chocolate-inspired salad vinaigrette from Oprah Winfrey’s website which combines finely ground cacao nibs with olive oil-balsamic vinegar mixture. Don’t forget to reserve some cacao nibs for salad toppings.

5. Healthy Snacks with Cacao Nibs

When mid-afternoon cravings strike, instead of munching sugar-loaded snacks, try healthier alternatives like this Almond Cacao Crunch Trail Mix or this Coconut Oil and Cocoa Nib Granola.

Where to Buy Raw Cacao Nibs in the Philippines

You can buy authentic raw cacao nibs at KM’s Organics. Their raw cacao nibs are available in 80 gram and 150 gram resealable packs. Price is very affordable J

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Have you tried raw cacao nibs before? How do you like to enjoy raw cacao nibs? Share it on the comment section below.

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