7 Ways To Use Gluten-Free Cacao Powder In Your Diet

Cacao powder is not the same as a cocoa powder which is often found on supermarket shelves, although both comes from the same plant source. Cacao is the raw, pure form of chocolate. Produced from the fruits of the cacao tree, cacao is minimally processed (One Green Planet, 2014). In contrast, cocoa powder contains cocoa that is processed and heated to create a smooth chocolate flavor. Consumption of cacao powder is a great way to boost your intake of beneficial nutrients.

 

What Exactly Cacao Is?

 

Cacao beans grow on trees found in South and Central America as well as various parts of Asia and are rich in flavanols, a specific type of plant-based nutrient that has many health benefits. When these beans are high heat processed, they become cocoa but may lose a significant portion of their health-promoting components depending on the process.

 

However, organic and raw beans preserve many of the superpowers of cacao that may be lost through high heat processing. In fact, raw cacao is:

 

●       Packed with more calcium than cow's milk, ounce-for-ounce

●       A good source of magnesium, iron, and antioxidants

●       Beneficial to help with issues related to stress, depression, blood pressure, heart health, and inflammation.

 

Also Read: 7 Insanely Delicious (and Healthy) Cacao Dessert Recipes

 

7 ways to enjoy Gluten-Free Cacao Powder In Your Diet

 

Those who are new to the taste of cacao may find the taste bitter. If this is right for you, then you may want to start by consuming small portions of cacao first and gradually increase the amount of cacao you consume.

 

Here are some ways to make cacao a regular (and delicious) part of your diet.

 

Cacao bar: One of the easiest ways to include gluten-free cacao into your diet is by enjoying a few squares of raw organic chocolate. Select a single-origin bar and try pairing it with your favorite teas or a handful of nuts for a nutritious yet luxurious culinary experience.

 

Hot chocolate: Whip up a healthful, warming beverage by mixing 2 tablespoons of cacao powder, 1 to 2 teaspoons of a plant-based sweetener, and 1 cup of milk, (Use plant-based milk such as unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, for fewer carbs.) Warm the mixture for 5 minutes over medium heat on your kitchen stove.

 

Also Read: Is Cacao and Cocoa the Same Thing?

 

Cold Chocolate Milk: If you prefer a cold drink, mix2 tablespoons of cacao powder in 1 teaspoon of warm milk and 1 to 2 teaspoons of a low-calorie plant-based sweetener. Then, add soaked almonds and blend them together with coconut milk, ice cubes, and 1 cup of cold water.

 

Smoothie: Enjoy a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack by mixing 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw cacao powder in your daily smoothie. You can top your composition with some handful of cacao nibs to add a pleasing crunch. (Cacao nibs also taste great in mixed baked goods like nutritious muffins and granola mix.)

 

Energy Balls: Energy balls are a great way to give a nutritious boost to your daily diet. You only need a few ingredients to make these delicious snacks. Raw cacao nibs, cacao powder, cashews(or other type of healthy nuts), and dates.

 

Raw Brownies: Raw brownies are perfect for those with a vegan, vegetarian and paleo lifestyle, as they are free of dairy, wheat, sugar, and gluten. They are also very quick and easy to make as no baking is necessary. Make your raw brownies by combining grounded nuts like almond, walnuts, coconut flakes and dates or honey as natural sweetener.

 

Baked Goods: Take your baking game to the next level with cacao powder.  This delicious ingredient adds a dark chocolate flavor to baked treats such as cakes, cookies, and pies. 

 

You can buy gluten-free cacao power in Malaysia from Diet Angel here!

Coconut Palm Sugar For Diabetes: Is It Safe To Eat?

 

Diabetic patients are recommended not to eat sweets in any way they want. In such a situation, they have to find other sweet options such as sugar-free things, brown sugar, jaggery, etc. You may also use sugar made from coconut palm. Its biggest feature is that it is unprocessed and is the most natural alternative to sugar. At the same time, it is beneficial not only for the patients of diabetes but also for the human body in many ways. So, let's know about coconut palm sugar for diabetes whether it is safe to eat or not!

 Natural Sweetener For Diabetics

Coconut palm sugar is made by drying and grinding. Talking about some traditional methods, coconut palm sugar is also made by boiling coconut. This sugar has low fructose content and has a low glycemic index, which is very beneficial for the diabetes patient. It contains more minerals and antioxidants than regular white sugar. This is another factor, which makes coconut palm sugar more beneficial.  It looks like compound brown sugar in appearance, which can be used as a natural sweetener in baking and cooking.

 Nutrition Information

 

One teaspoon of coconut palm sugar contains:

 

Calories:                   15

Protein:                   0 grams

Fat:                           0 grams

Carbohydrates:      4 grams

Fiber:                        0 grams

Sugar:                      4 grams

 

How Coconut Palm Sugar Is Safe And Beneficial For Diabetes?

 

Diabetes means sugar disease. This disease is such that it increases the amount of sugar in the blood, due to which insulin stops in the body. This disease is very serious, which later becomes the root of many diseases. If a diabetes patient feels a wound, it does not heal quickly. Diabetes patients have to live with medicines and abstinence, but the disease can be balanced to a great extent if we take care of our food and drink. If a diabetic patient uses coconut palm sugar as natural sweetener, the patient keeps diabetic balance in the body and reduces obesity. Know more benefits of coconut sugar here:

 

Benefits of Coconut Palm Sugar

 

1. Coconut Palm Sugar Having Low Calories

 

Coconut palm sugar has low calories. It is similar to brown sugar, which low calories but provides more nutrition regularly. In addition, coconut sugar has high levels of iron, zinc, potassium, polyphenols, flavonoids, and fiber. Five grams of regular sugar contains about 20 calories.  Hence, patients with diabetes can safely eat this. On the other hand, coconut palm sugar contains about 15 calories in the same amount. In this way, it can help you reduce weight.

 

Also Read: Best Natural Sweeteners That You Can Use in Cooking and Baking

 

2. Advantages For Intestine Bacteria

 

We all know how good prebiotics are for the intestine. They maintain digestion due to which our body works well. You will be surprised to know that coconut palm sugar also has prebiotics. Sugar in coconut contains a fiber called inulin which is a dietary fiber that is very good for your gut or intestine. It acts as a prebiotic and is beneficial for intestinal bacteria.

 

3. It Controls Blood Sugar Level

 

The glycemic index (GI) of coconut palm sugar is low. GI is a measurement that evaluates carbohydrate-rich foods, along with their effects on our blood sugar and glucose levels. You will be surprised to know that the GI of coconut sugar is 35 as compared to regular sugar, while the GI of regular sugar is between 60 and 65.  Also, the insulin present in it helps to slow down the absorption of glucose in the blood which prevents problems like diabetes.

 

4. Coconut Sugar Is More Healthy

 

This may sound a little strange but it is true. This dark brown sugar has very low calories but is more nutritious than regular sugar. Coconut sugar contains fructose and glucose. Whereas normal sugar contains only glucose.

 

In addition, coconut sugar also contains high amounts of iron, zinc, potassium, polyphenols, flavonoids, and fiber, while regular sugar does not contain any of these nutrients. That is why coconut sugar is considered better for your health.

 

5. This Is Not Refined, So Vegan Diet Has A Better Option

 

If you are a vegetarian or vegan, coconut sugar is the best option for you. Since normal sugar is refined with bone char, this is not the case with coconut sugar.  Therefore, it is not only healthy but also 100% vegetarian.

 

Also Read: Organic Coconut Sugar— A Healthy Sugar Alternative or Just A Lie?

 

6. Obesity Will Be Reduce

 

It has very low fructose compared to normal sugar, which does not increase fat in the body. Actually, when the liver reacts with fructose, it releases triglyceride, which is a type of fat.  Although it is healthy to consume fructose from fruits.

 

7. Blood Circulation

 

Coconut sugar also contains a small amount of iron, which serves to correct blood circulation. This increases the secretion of oxygen and nutrition in the body. Iron also produces red blood cells.  Therefore, coconut sugar is beneficial for patients with anemia. It also relieves headache, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems.

 

8. Right Cholesterol Level

 

Consumption of this coconut sugar also reduces the level of bad cholesterol. It contains fiber, which increases HDL cholesterol by lowering LDL cholesterol.  This reduces the risk of cardiovascular and atherosclerosis. In this way, consumption of coconut sugar can prevent heart diseases.

 

9. For Bone Health

 

Minerals such as zinc, potassium, iron, calcium, and copper are found in coconut sugar, which reduces the possibility of bone diseases by increasing bone density.  Studies have also revealed that the level of coconut sugar maintained the hormones. This can also overcome problems such as envy and depression.

 

10. Digestion Will Be Improved

 

Coconut sugar contains fiber, which increases the level of good bacteria in the stomach. It also increases the ability to absorb nutrients. It also contains Vitamin C, which boosts immunity and increases the formation of white blood cells.

 

Final takeaway

 

Keep in mind that consuming 12 grams of coconut sugar in a day is an ideal amount.  But, the best thing is that you can use coconut palm sugar to make sweets and homemade desserts. So if you have not yet tried coconut palm sugar, you have to definitely try it. Buy the best coconut palm sugar from Diet Angel in Malaysia here.

Here are Top 9 Health and Nutrition Benefits of Cacao Powder

Cacao powder is produced from cacao beans which are crushed first and then the fat is removed from it to give you a fine quality cacao powder. Cacao powder is known to have been first taken to Europe by Spanish Conquerors where it instantly became a well-known medicine for promoting good health. In the present times, cacao powder is heavily planted and used in the production of chocolates. A number of recent researches show that cacao powder is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that are very useful for a healthy body.

Here are the top 9 health and nutritional benefits of cacao powder-

1. Cacao powder is rich in polyphenol that has a number of health and nutrition benefits

Cacao powder contains a large amount of polyphenol which is a naturally occurring antioxidant. It is also found in rich amounts in various other items like tea, vegetables, wine and fruits.

Polyphenol may reduce inflammation, lower high blood pressure, improve the blood sugar as well as the cholesterol level and also promote better flow of blood through the body.

Being a very rich source for polyphenol, cacao powder is a very healthy ingredient to have in your kitchen. But it should be noted that once processed or heated, it loses a number of its healthy properties and polyphenol level. This means that not every product which has cacao powder in its ingredient list will provide you with its health benefits.

2.May increase nitric oxide level in blood and lower high blood pressure

Cacao powder may improve the levels of nitric oxide in a human’s blood which helps enhancing blood vessels and their functioning. This may lead to reduced blood pressure.

3. Cacao powder may improve brain function

The polyphenols found in cacao powder have been found to be able to reduce neurodegenerative disease risk because they improve blood flow to the brain and hence improve the functioning and working of the human brain. Flavanols found in cacao powder are able to cross the barrier between blood and brain and may involve themselves in various biochemical pathways. This leads to the production of a number of neurons which are important for the proper functioning of the brain.

A study conducted for over a period of two weeks showed that in 34 years old adults, cacao rich in flavanols resulted in the increase of blood flow to the brain by 8% in the first week and 10% in a period of two weeks. Daily intake of Cacao powder can also lead to improved performance of the brain.

4. Cacao powder may improve moodiness and depression symptoms

Cacao powder has been known to have a positive effect on moodiness. The flavanols in cacao lead to tryptophan being converted to serotonin which is a natural stabilizer of mood. One study shows that frequent consumption of chocolate by pregnant women may lead to their babies having a good mood and reduced stress.

Daily intake of chocolate may also lead to health and mood improvement in adults as well as elderly people.

5. Cacao powder may surprisingly be helpful in weight control

Cacao powder and its consumption may help your body with the regulation of energy usage, reducing hunger and appetite and making a person feel full soon. A study conducted found that BMI was lower among people who ate cacao in some form or the other regularly as compared with people who did not eat cacao too often. They had lower BMI even when they were given more fatty food to consume throughout the study.

So, cacao and cacao rich food may aid in maintaining and reducing weight.

6. Cacao may have properties that can protect one from cancer

Flavanols have too often been linked with having properties that may protect one from cancer. Cacao has a very high concentration of those flavanols and various test-tube studies have shown that cacao’s antioxidants may protect human cells from cancer and may even induce the cell death of the cancer cell.

Many trials on animals have also shown that flavanols from cacao may have some very amazing cancer protection properties but not enough data has been produced yet from its trials on humans.

Also read: 7 Incredible Food Items That Keep your Heart Healthy

7. Cacao powder may help people who have asthma

Asthma is a chronic disease in which airways get inflamed and obstructed and it can be very dangerous if not taken care of properly. Cacao powder is thought to be capable of helping asthmatic people because of theobromine and theophylline, two compounds found in cacao which are also anti-asthmatic.

Studies on animals have shown promising results about cacao reducing their thickness of tissues and airway constriction. It is to be noted however that there is not enough data of human trials and its success so research is needed there to see if cacao reacts well with other anti-asthmatic medicines and drugs that the patient might be on.

8. Cacao powder has various immune-stimulating as well as antibacterial properties. 

Cacao powder’s antibacterial properties and their protective effect against dental and gum diseases have been the subject of a number of studies. Cacao beans are rich in various immune-stimulating as well as anti-enzymatic properties that promote good oral health and protect teeth and gums.

Cacao’s polyphenol antioxidant is very useful and provides sun protection and even stimulates blood circulation. This antioxidant also helps in smoothening of the skin texture and hydrates your skin.

Cacao powder may also increase the levels of one’s natural body antioxidants like SOD and catalase and it has been even seen to have a positive effect on promotion of T cell maturation in one’s body. T cell maturation and antioxidants help one build a strong immunity against various diseases. It is again to be noted that only organic cacao can give you all these health benefits.

Also Read: A Good CACAO SUPERFOOD is a saviour in many forms

9. Daily intake of organic cacao powder may also lower one’s chances of getting a heart attack and stroke

Organic cacao is rich in flavanol which helps in the dilation and relaxation of arteries and improves blood flow because it improves the nitric oxide level in blood. It has also been found that cacao helps in the reduction of cholesterol, can aid in the thinning of blood and also induce the reduction of inflammation.

All of these properties increase one’s chances of lowering the risk of heart attacks, strokes and heart failure. So, it is to be noted and remembered that organic cacao powder can be very beneficial for one’s health. Stay fit stay healthy! Purchase the best organic cacao products from Diet Angel in Malaysia here!

Understanding Organic Food Certifications in Malaysia

Organic foods are grown and processed differently than regular foods. They are grown sustainably without using any chemicals, synthetic fertilizers, harmful pesticides, and dyes.

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Why Choose Organic Food – Does It Really Keep You Fit?

Eat good quality food instead of mouth watering junk foods to lead a healthy and energetic life. But how could you know which food items are good from your health perspective? With regards to the budding theories over healthy food items, the word “Organic “has become very important in the past few years. Why is it so? Because organic foods are better, healthier and excellent for maintaining a healthy life.

Did you know?

Your antioxidant intake will increase by 20%-40% by eating organic foods.
Organic foods have more nutrient and lesser calorie value than those appetizing junk foods.
Here is the list of the reasons why you should choose organic food over those deep-fried, mouth-watering, taste buds satiating junk food items.

Promotes detoxification

Organic foods do not require harmful pesticides or herbicides for their production. These chemicals are direct source of toxins for your body, thus causing health diseases and illnesses. Eating organic foods save your body from the harmful effects of these toxic chemicals and optimize its capacity for better nutrient absorption.

Facilitates Weight Loss in a Natural Way

The organic foods have very low glycemic index and their regular intake will help in losing extra pounds from your body weight naturally. So, if you want to lose weight without putting extra efforts, just include organic foods in your daily diet and you will become slim quickly.

Satiates Taste Buds

Your taste buds might not allow you to opt for complete organic diet, but researches have proven that eating organic foods on regular basis satisfies your taste buds more than those delectable scrap foods. It means the more you eat organic food, the more scrumptious you will find them.

Intensifies Energy Level

Organic foods are known for improving the body metabolism that increases your energy level appreciably. It means the moment you leave your bed in the morning; you will feel more energetic and healthier.

Now, when you are aware of the health benefits associated with the organic foods, make them an essential part of your diet. Being one of the popular and trusted wholesale organic food suppliers in Malaysia, we supply high quality organic foods to all food stores there.

Why Organic Food is Considered a Sustainable Option?

People are more concerned about sustainability and the environment today. Issues like smog, rising global temperatures, water pollution, and oodles of plastic waste have raised concerns among us. That’s why many people nowadays question how their food is grown? Whether conventional methods are used or organic? Lastly, whether it’s grown sustainably or not? Organic food offers a more sustainable, long term solution for four main reasons:

Reason #1 – Less Soil and Water Pollution: Soil and water pollution are two major problems the world is facing today, and food production using pesticides is surely the biggest part of the problem. According to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, about 1/3 or the world’s soil has already been degraded because of “chemical heavy” farming techniques, and deforestation. Soil and water are extremely valuable farming resources. Organically grown food does not use toxic fertilizers and pesticides that can deplete soils over time and pollute our water supplies.

Reason #2 – Use of Less Energy and No Pesticides: Many agree that oil, gas and coal will not last for future generations. That’s why people are moving towards more renewable forms of energy, like wind and solar. Farmers are making a paradigm shift towards the food grown without the use of harmful chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Under organic production, farmers produce crops with natural fertilizers and less energy. They also follow strict rules about what inputs can be used.

Reason #3 – Greater Biodiversity: It’s not a hidden secret that wildlife is under constant threat because of chemical-based agricultural practices. Due to the use of pesticides, there has been a sudden decline in birds and other wildlife. Organic farming is beneficial for wildlife because it results in greater biodiversity of plants, animals, insects and microbes.

Reason #4 – Fewer Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Climate change is another very concerning serious global threat. Moreover, the agriculture and food production is the major contributor to this threat and the release of greenhouse gases. From the reports, it has been concluded that 1/3 of our greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture and food production. Organic farms release less amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Healthy soils are a major source of carbon storage and organic farming results in increased carbon sequestration.

Eating organic food is eating sustainably! We should consider organic food as a long term solution to decrease our dependence on oil-based fertilizers and pesticides, increase biodiversity, decrease greenhouse gas emissions and soil & water pollution. So if you are looking for healthy organic food, Diet Angel is the place for you! We supply raw organic cacao food products to health food stores, organic food stores and food businesses in Malaysia.

Check this link to know where to get our organic raw cacao products in Malaysia: http://www.dietangel.com.my/where-to-get/

Highly Active People or Sportsmen Should Include These Organic Foods

Diet Angel is the importer and distributor of a range of truly good premium organic foods in Malaysia. The unprocessed, whole plant-based foods, prepared at a temperature threshold of about 46°C maintains the nutrients, natural food enzymes and mineral. They are free from industrial solvents or synthetic food additives. Our organic food products are certified organic, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, cold-processed and have low Glycemic Index.

ORGANIC CHOCOLATES – The truly healthy, mild-flavoured organic Dark Chocolate is rich in magnesium, iron and theobromine. While magnesium is the mood enhancing compound, on the other hand, theobromine in dark chocolate promotes cardiovascular health while iron promotes blood, muscle and brain function. The low glycemic index ensures the slow release of glucose into the bloodstream.

ORGANIC BERRIES – Regardless which berry you choose, be it strawberries, blueberries, blackberries – they all are full of antioxidants that can help you get rid of free radicals formed during high-intensity exercise. The berries with the darkest hues offer the greatest nutritional benefits.

ORGANIC RAW CACAO SWEET NIBS – Our truly raw organic cold-processed Cacao Sweet Nibs are high in antioxidants and magnesium. These nutrients are the perfect source of energy and keep your active body in tight workout regimes. You may eat them in place of conventional chocolate chips as healthier replacement.

ORGANIC SPINACH – Cruciferous vegetables should form part of any healthy diet, but spinach is significantly important for athletes. The anti-inflammatory properties of spinach help in minimizing soreness after a hard workout. Make a salad from organic spinach and strawberries prior going for a race or big game, it will keep you active and energetic all day long.

ORGANIC COCONUT NECTAR – Our Organic Coconut Nectar is the world’s first certified organic coconut sugar. The ‘nature’s perfect sweetener’ is a pure and unrefined evaporated nectar that is the best replacement for high fructose sweeteners. The unrefined, organic, non-GMO, gluten-free sugar is naturally high in nutrients and low on the Glycemic Index. Add our organic coconut nectar to your kitchen creations for a healthy touch of sweetness.

ORGANIC CHIA SEEDS – Chia seeds are the powerhouse of antioxidants. It is full of free radical fighting nutrients that keep the athletes hydrated for a longer span. At the time of running or workout, the athletes can drop the teaspoonful of chis seeds into a water bottle and can drink it on and off. They slide down so easy you’ll never even realize you’re drinking them.

When it comes to health goals, getting more exercise is directly related eating healthy foods. The organic foods enlisted above are full of nutrients that keep you energetic and active throughout the day. The organic foods, which are supplied by Diet Angel in Malaysia, are healthy certified organic products of high quality. These products are gluten-free, lactose-free, chemical-free, vegan, organic and fresh produce that can help you get a healthy, natural energy boost.

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