Oh beloved, cacao–-the source of many of our sweetest indulgences. However, when used in a healthy recipe cacao can be both delicious and guilt-free. Cacao beans, if you haven’t ever seen them in their original state, come from the fruit of the cacao tree. Cacao, like many of the ingredients we love at VIVOTRIBE has a long, rich history dating back several thousand years to central and South America. At one time, it was even used as currency.  

Cacao was once referred to by the Aztecs as “heart blood” and even back then the cardiovascular benefits were appreciated. Cacao was even used as a medicine and consumed during sacred ceremonies. Cacao earns its nickname of “heart blood” because it can lower blood pressure, increase blood flow, and even improve the elasticity of blood vessels.

Cacao has even been known to improve insulin resistance and even combat symptoms of depression.