How Cacao Can Improve Your Exercise Capacity & Performance

This post is for people who are either experienced fitness professionals or are thinking about enrolling in their first yoga or fitness class. If you want a natural, holistic alternative to nasty pre workout supplements cacao may be the answer.

Cacao is a natural stimulant
Cacao is usually classed as a stimulant, even though its effects are far less strong than coffee's. Although it contains only around one-sixth of the caffeine found in a cup of coffee, it provides enough stimulation to boost mental clarity, performance, focus, and excite the central nervous system.

Theobromine is the primary stimulant in cacao.

Theobromine, a chemical found almost solely in cacao, is the major stimulant. Theobromine can boost brain clarity, relax smooth muscles, improve mood, and dilate blood vessels. It also provides a more sustained energy boost than the fast spike and collapse associated with caffeine.

Benefits of Exercise
Cacao is an excellent choice for workout since it promotes blood flow and improves cardiovascular function.

The Physiological Benefits of Cacao
Cacao is high in minerals, which are required for a number of cellular activities, especially during physical exercise. This includes:

• Iron, zinc, and magnesium are necessary nutrients for proper metabolic function and workout performance.
• High-quality cacao contains other essential minerals such as calcium, copper, chromium, manganese, phosphorus, sulphur, and potassium.
• Cacao contains trace amounts of B vitamins, which support energy synthesis and muscular function during exercise.

Cacao for Mood Enhancement
Cacao has both physical and psychological benefits. It contains bioactive substances such as anandamide and phenylethylamine (PEA), which have the ability to boost mood and focus.

Anandamide, the "Bliss Molecule"

Anandamide, often known as the "bliss molecule," is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in the brain that interacts with the same receptors as THC (cannabis' active ingredient), heightening sensations of pleasure and well-being.

Cacao contains phenylethylamine (PEA), which improves performance and mood. It promotes the release of neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which not only improve mood but also increase physical endurance and brain sharpness during exercise.

Using Cacao in Your Exercise Routine
To take advantage of cacao's mood-lifting and energising qualities, ingest a cup 30 to 60 minutes before your workout. Cacao can boost your focus, energy, and motivation when you exercise, run, or prepare for a yoga class.

Conclusion
To summarise, cacao is a natural, holistic alternative to traditional pre-workout supplements, providing continuous energy, enhanced performance, and mood-boosting properties that promote both physical and mental endurance. Try it out before your next workout and see the difference for yourself.