Half Mermaid is super proud to have partnered up with Creation Cacao, to bring ceremonial cacao and all its wonderful benefits to the swimming community; at a 10% discount.

What is Cacao?

A Game Changer! Theobroma Cacao is the scientific name for Raw Cacao or Ceremonial Cacao, also known to the ancient Mayans and Aztecs who used cacao as medicine for centuries, as “Food of the Gods” .

It is the result of cold pressing and fermenting raw cacao beans so that they retain their high levels of nutrients, antioxidants and flavonoids. It is available in powder (roasted in low temperatures), blocks and an in between consistency of small and larger cocoa nibs.

What is the Cacao vs. cocoa

Cocoa is usually a powder made from cacao, with a reduced nutritional profile resulting in a flavour that isn't as bitter as raw cacao due to the amount of sugar added.

What are the benefits?

Beyond its super yumminess and chocolatey goodness curbing cravings, here are some of Cacao’s benefits:

Raw cacao's extremely high nutritional value is the reason for its 5-star superfood credentials. With more antioxidants gram for gram than blueberries, the highest magnesium content of any whole food, phosphorous for bone health, and potassium to help curb menstrual cramps and promote healthy skin and an excellent source of iron, protein & fiber; it is the perfect addition to your pre swim nutrition and the heart warming delicious way to warm up post swim or dip, whatever time of year.

• Polyphenols of the type flavonoid help reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow and reduces risk of heart disease and inflammation.

• Reduces the risk of diabetes as antioxidants contained may assist how the body responds to insulin.

• Improves mood Cacao has several chemical compounds that could give you a boost, including flavonoids, caffeine (at a much lower amount than coffee) and tryptophan which converts to seratonin.

• Improves brain function A specific flavonoid in cacao called epicatechin may help with some parts of your brain health, including cognition and blood flow, which could lower your risk of getting dementia.

• Enhances performance Cacao's flavanoids may boost your physical performance by influencing how your body uses nitric oxide.

Nutrients :

• Iron

• Phosphorus

• Manganese 

• Magnesium

• Potassium

• Fiber

You can find out more in the following resources (1) and (2).