We are often asked if our cacao can be used as a coffee substitute. For this reason we would like to describe the similarities and differences between coffee and cacao today.
Theobromine and caffeine
Both wake you up, that's for sure. You will soon find out what this has to do with empathy, mindfulness and creative solutions.
A regular cup of coffee has 50 to 175 milligrams of caffeine. Cacao has a maximum of 25 mg caffeine, but a higher proportion of theobromine. This acts like caffeine, only without the sharp drop in energy.
caffeine constricts the blood vessels; This means that the heart has to pump the blood with more pressure. heart rate and respiratory rate increase; the brain and the rest of the body are optimally supplied with blood. Ultimately, however, stress is generated in the body, which you perceive as an energy boost. Theobromine dilates blood vessels. More oxygen can be absorbed and you feel naturally awake.
Fast & short vs. slower & longer
Caffeine and theobromine are alkaloids responsible for the stimulating effects of coffee and cacao. Coffee gives you a quick boost of energy, which quickly falls off again. It is very suitable if you want a short energy boost. Cacao, on the other hand, increases your energy level more slowly and lasts longer and consistently. In addition, cacao has a high magnesium content. Magnesium regulates your metabolic activities and supplies your muscles with the energy they need. This calms and energizes the body at the same time.
Coffee and cacao promote concentration. Caffeine increases blood flow to the brain and makes you alert and more focused. The flavonoids in cacao also increase blood flow in the brain, which in turn promotes concentration. They also protect against stress and sharpen perception and cognitive abilities. So both drinks are good to work with.
Use depending on the activity
In my experience, coffee is better suited when you want to stupidly focus on one thing. Since cacao expands your whole system and awakens your feelings, cacao is very suitable for creative work, vision finding and generally for all activities where you are not rigidly focused on one thing - which brings me to the next point!
Probably the best-known property of cacao is that it has a heart-opening effect. If I drank cacao, I feel more connected to my feelings. Intuitive activities and creative processes are so much easier for me. It is not for nothing that cacao has been used in rituals and ceremonies for thousands of years because it opens access to inner abundance.
A transformation has been taking place in the business world for several years. Social skills such as empathy, mindfulness and self-efficacy are increasingly in demand. Creative and inventive solutions will create the future. Here I clearly see cacao as the "coffee of tomorrow". Cacao is also known as the "food of change". Very appropriate I think.
My personal conclusion
For me, cacao is more than a coffee alternative. Cacao has a wonderful effect on our body and mind. Of course it depends on what you want to focus on. I really appreciate coffee for clear, structured computer work. When it comes to creative processes, cacao is clearly my first choice.
What are your experiences?
With Love, Felix
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