Get Calcium from your daily cup of Cacao!

Calcium is a vital mineral that plays an essential role in maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth. It is also important for many other functions in the body, such as muscle function, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. While dairy products are often thought of as the primary source of calcium, there are many plant-based sources of this important nutrient. One such source is ceremonial grade cacao, a superfood that is packed with calcium, as well as many other beneficial compounds.

Why Calcium is Important

Calcium is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth, as it is the mineral that gives them their hardness and structure. It is also important for muscle function, as it helps to regulate muscle contractions. In addition, calcium plays a role in nerve signaling, blood clotting, and hormone secretion.

Calcium is especially important for children and adolescents, as this is when bone growth and development are most rapid. However, it is also important for adults and older adults, as the body continually renews and remodels bone tissue throughout life.

Calcium Deficiency

Calcium deficiency can lead to a variety of health problems, including osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle and are more prone to fractures. Other symptoms of calcium deficiency may include muscle cramps, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, and fatigue.

Vegan Sources of Calcium

While dairy products are often thought of as the primary source of calcium, there are many plant-based sources of this important nutrient. Some of the best vegan sources of calcium include:

- Leafy Greens: Dark, leafy greens like kale, collard greens, and bok choy are all excellent sources of calcium. For example, one cup of cooked collard greens contains around 266 milligrams of calcium.

- Tofu: Tofu is made from soybeans, which are naturally rich in calcium. Depending on the brand and type of tofu, one serving can contain up to 861 milligrams of calcium.

- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, sesame seeds, and chia seeds are all good sources of calcium. For example, one ounce of sesame seeds contains around 280 milligrams of calcium.

- Fortified Foods: Many plant-based milks, cereals, and other foods are fortified with calcium. Be sure to check the label to see how much calcium is in each serving.

Ceremonial Grade Cacao and Calcium

Ceremonial grade cacao is an amazing superfood that is packed with calcium, as well as many other beneficial compounds. One ounce of ceremonial grade cacao contains around 65 milligrams of calcium, which is roughly 6% of the recommended daily intake for adults.

In addition to its calcium content, ceremonial grade cacao also contains other important nutrients, such as magnesium, iron, and zinc. It is also a rich source of flavonoids and antioxidants, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-aging properties.

One of the great things about ceremonial grade cacao is that it can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike. While many traditional sources of calcium, such as dairy products, are not suitable for vegans, ceremonial grade cacao provides a convenient and delicious way to meet their calcium needs.

How to Incorporate Ceremonial Grade Cacao into Your Diet

If you want to incorporate ceremonial grade cacao into your diet to boost your calcium intake, there are several ways to do so. Here are some ideas:

1. Hot Chocolate: One of the easiest ways to consume ceremonial grade cacao is to make hot chocolate. Simply heat up some milk or non-dairy milk in a saucepan, add a few tablespoons of ceremonial grade cacao powder, and sweeten to taste with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey.

2. Smoothies: Adding ceremonial grade cacao to your smoothies is a great way to enjoy its health benefits. Simply blend together your favorite fruits and vegetables with some ceremonial grade cacao powder, and you've got a delicious and nutritious smoothie.

3. Baked Goods: Ceremonial grade cacao can also be incorporated into your favorite baked goods, like brownies, cakes, and cookies. Simply substitute some of the flour in your recipe with cacao powder to add a rich chocolate flavor and boost the calcium content.

4. Energy Balls: Another great way to enjoy ceremonial grade cacao is to make energy balls. Simply mix together some cacao powder, nuts, dates, and other healthy ingredients, roll into balls, and refrigerate until firm.

It's important to note that while ceremonial grade cacao is a great source of calcium, it should not be relied on as the sole source of this important nutrient. It's important to consume a variety of calcium-rich foods to ensure you are meeting your daily needs.

Calcium is an important nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth, as well as many other functions in the body. While dairy products are often thought of as the primary source of calcium, there are many plant-based sources of this important nutrient, including ceremonial grade cacao.

Ceremonial grade cacao is a delicious and convenient way to boost your calcium intake, as well as enjoy many other health benefits. Whether you add it to your smoothies, bake it into your favorite treats, or enjoy it as a hot chocolate, there are many ways to incorporate this amazing superfood into your diet.

If you're looking for a vegan-friendly source of calcium, consider giving ceremonial grade cacao a try. With its rich flavor and impressive nutrient profile, it's sure to become a staple in your healthy eating routine.

Suggested Read: The physical, health and spiritual benefits of ceremonial cacao