Winter wellness tips

Winter wellness tips

It's that time of year when we are most inspired to take a look at our health and habits and create new positive resolutions for the year ahead. Whether you've decided to improve your diet, go organic or finally start that class you've had your eye on, we have 5 suggestions that may help you feel great and beat the winter blues!

Boost your immunity: Avoid catching nasty bugs this winter by helping to keep your immune system strong and healthy. You can do this by supplementing daily with vitamin C, zinc, eating a varied diet filled with leafy green vegetables, and exercising regularly even in the cold! It's also important to make sure you're getting enough sleep, doctors advise a solid 8 hours is the ideal for our bodies and brains to fully function.

Green Tea: The perfect caffeine alternative if you are planning to cut down on coffee this month. It actually has a higher level of caffeine than coffee however our body can process it better than our favourite caffeinated drink. It is also full of antioxidants and rich in polyphenols which help with inflammation as well as a great stimulation for the brain! 



Try making your own matcha latte with our premium and ceremonial grade matcha powder:
https://www.detoxtrading.co.uk/matcha-green-tea-powder.htm


To make a matcha latte, just mix one teaspoon of matcha with your favourite milk, heat in a pan then whisk for the full frothy effect. Sweeten with honey or agave syrup.


Vitamin D: The sun is in short supply at this time of year, so its important to give your body a steady supply of vitamin D. You can buy vitamin D tablets, or try adding more mushrooms to your diet which are rich in vitamin D. There is a high level of vitamin D in almond milk.

Take up a new hobby: Stimulate and excite your mind by taking up a new hobby, whether its knitting, rock climbing, or learning a new language this will challenge you and give you something to look forward to. 






Ashwagandha: A wonderful adaptogen which can help to fight feelings of anxiety, stress or depression. If you feel like you need a little extra lift to see you through to spring, this popular superfood can give you the support you need. 

Why we love dried berries

Dried berries such as goji berries, goldenberries (Inca berries) and mulberries are a fantastic addition to your store cupboard. They make delicious snacks throughout the day, and can also be added to a number of different recipes for sweetness and extra nutritional value. Provided the berries are processed naturally, and there are no nasties added to them, they are a fantastic way to up your antioxidant intake. They are our healthy snack of choice here at Detox Trading. 

Take a look at some of the reasons why we love these delicious berries, and we've included our very own berry and cacao granola recipe as well...

GOJI BERRIES 

Goji berries, also known as 'wolfberries' have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. Traditionally they have been used for an array of issues ranging from mood lifting to eye, liver and immune system health. Goji berries have an extremely high nutritional value for such a small berry. The berries have an abundance of antioxidants, trace minerals and 18 amino acids (11 of which are essential). Every 4 ounce serving of dried goji berries provides 10 percent of your recommended daily intake of protein.

Goji berries also contain the following:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Iron
• Fibre
• Zinc
• Selenium 
• Potassium
• Unsaturated fatty acids
• Phytochemicals (polysaccharides, zeazanthin, lutein)

You can use goji berries as a healthy snack on their own, sprinkle them on your breakfast cereal or smoothie, mix them in with salads or use them in baking. 

Potential benefits of goji berries:

• Immune system support due to high antioxidant and vitamin c level. 
• Healthy looking skin as a result of beta carotene.
• Help to stabilise blood sugar levels
• Liver tonic and support

GOLDEN BERRIES

Golden berries, also known as Incan berries or cape gooseberries are a delicious balance between sweetness and tart. These berries originate from South America and belong to the same family as the tomato and the aubergine. They are bursting with nutrients and antioxidants, helping to reduce oxidative stress and the amount of free radical cells in the body. They have a higher level of vitamin A than other berries, with a lower amount of sugar making them a healthy addition to your diet. 

Try adding golden berries to your breakfast porridge or smoothie, salads or use them as an ingredient in baking. 

Potential benefits of Golden Berries:

• High antioxidant content could help prevent certain diseases
• Presence of withnalolides (also present in ashwaghanda) could help with inflammation, and could help the body cope with stress
• They have a very low sugar and calorie content making them a wonderful snack

MULBERRIES

Black and white mulberries are a true superfood, they not only taste great, but each type has its own special benefit for our health. Both black and white mulberries are another great source of antioxidant rich food

White mulberries have a distinctive sweet caramel flavour, and a chewy fig like texture. They have an unusually high protein content for a berry, and also contain high levels of vitamin C, fibre and calcium. They have traditionally been used to help treat diabetes and lower cholesterol level. 

Black mulberries are rich in protein and iron, which can help to increase energy levels by delivering oxygen rich blood cells throughout the body. They also contain vitamin K, vitamin C, fibre and potassium. 

Potential benefits of mulberries:

• Studies are underway to test whether they can help lower cholesterol levels in the body
• Support liver health
• Could help stabilise blood sugar levels

Mixed berry and cacao granola recipe

Ingredients 

1kg rolled oats

100g goji berries

100g mulberries

100g golden berries

150g cacao nibs

50g coconut flakes 

80ml coconut oil

½ tbsp cinnamon
2 tbsp cacao powder
200g extra virgin coconut oil
150 ml honey or agave syrup (add slightly more for a sweeter tooth!)
1 tsp vanilla extract
100g of almonds or other nuts of your choosing
50g flax seeds

This is a basic recipe which you can experiment with, by adding different ingredients and quantities to suit your taste.
The oil and honey will help the oats to crisp up and cluster, so adding more will give you more crunchy clusters.

• Line 2 baking trays with greaseproof paper and preheat the oven to 200C.
• Mix the oats, agave/ honey, coconut oil and vanilla extract in a bowl and make sure all the oats are well covered.
• Add the flax seeds, nuts, cinnamon and cacao powder and mix well. 
• Add the oats to the baking trays, spreading as thinly and evenly as possible (this helps to make the granola more crispy).
• Bake in the oven for 20-30 mins or until golden brown. 
• Let the granola cool on the baking trays.
• Add the berries, coconut flakes and cacao nibs and mix well. 
• Store in airtight glass container, (make sure the granola is completely cool before storing them as otherwise it may go soggy).
• Enjoy with your favourite nut milk!

Detox Trading supplies premium quality organic superfoods, all certified by the UK Soil Association. Our family-run business is committed to selling affordable superfood products whilst maintaining their certified organic status and supporting a healthy lifestyle. 

Health Benefits of Moringa

Moringa oleifera is a plant that has been praised for its health benefits for almost 4,000 years. It is widely known as the drumstick tree, horseradish tree, miracle tree and the ben oil or benzoil tree. Although modern science is continuously proving the health benefits of moringa, it has been popular across various cultures for centuries.

Moringa is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree, which was originally grown at the southern foothills of the Himalayas in northwestern India. It grows up to 2 metres tall and produces long, slender, brown capsules with rounded seeds. Today, it is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas where its young seed pods and leaves are used as vegetables and many parts of the tree are used as herbal medicine.

Moringa oleifera offers a multitude of health benefits, however only a few of its many reputed health benefits have been studied scientifically and these are just a few:

Moringa is packed with nutrients

Moringa is a fairly large and very nutritious tree, hence its name "elixir tree." Moringa leaves specifically are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals. They are rich in protein, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron, riboflavin, vitamin A and magnesium. The fresh leaves are usually eaten as a vegetable and the dried leaves are mostly sold as dietary supplements, either in powder or capsule form.

It is rich in antioxidants

High levels of free radicals may cause oxidative stress and serious health problems such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Antioxidants are compounds that act against them. Moringa leaves are rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid which are all potent antioxidants. These antioxidants also help improve vision and provide protection against retinal damage.

May reduce inflammation

Inflammation is an essential protective mechanism of the body as it is a natural response to infection and injury. However, it may become a major health issue if it continues over a long period of time. If overlooked and not treated, it may lead to chronic health problems including heart disease and cancer.

Scientists believe that the main anti-inflammatory compounds found in moringa leaves, pods and seeds are isothiocyanates. Vitamin C, beta-carotene, polyphenols, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid are some more components that can be found in moringa leaves. These components combat oxidative stress and slow the progression of age-related disorders as well as reduce inflammation.

May prevent diabetes

A high blood sugar level is the main characteristic of diabetes which is considered a serious and escalating health problem in the UK. Diabetes carries complications that affect the heart, kidneys, eyes, liver and other organs of the body. It is important to keep your blood sugar within healthy limits. Moringa contains chlorogenic acid and isothiocyanates that allow cells to utilise glucose as required, helping to regulate blood glucose levels and fight type 2 diabetes with its hormonal balancing and glycemic controlling properties.

Maintain healthy cholesterol levels

High cholesterol levels increase the risk of heart disease but fortunately, many plant foods can effectively reduce cholesterol such as flaxseeds, oats, almonds and of course, moringa. Moringa maintains healthy cholesterol levels as well as blood pressure levels in the body and its bioactive components, including isothiocyanate and niaziminin, also prevent the thickening of arteries and reduce the development of pulmonary hypertension. In addition, moringa's hypocholesterolemic effects help in reducing a high-fat rise in the liver and kidney. 

Detox Trading is a family run business that was founded in 2007. We offer organic moringa leaf powder and a wide range of quality, versatile and affordable organic superfoods, green and herbal teas, detox products, supplements and much more.

8 Good Reasons Why You Need More Seaweed in Your Diet

When people think seaweed, they often think back to to summer days on the beach, the salty smell, squidgy feel underfoot and throwing it around to scare your friends. Either that or for fans of Japanese cuisine, fried crispy seaweed and sushi rolls mmmm.  

But if your not accustomed to the great taste and wonderful benefits of seaweed then you are about to learn to love it! So here are 8 good reasons why you should be consuming seaweed regularly. 

1. Naturally loaded with protein

Seaweed is an excellent choice of vegetarian protein. When added to soups, salads or even bread, 100 grams of seaweed can give you up to 6 grams of protein.

2. Contains easily-digestible fibre

Seaweed contains a fair amount of fibre (around 1.3 grams per 100 grams of kelp) and it's extremely soluble.

3. Filled with vitamins and minerals

Different types of seaweed offer different nutrients, but regardless of the variety, they’re always dense with vitamins and minerals. This includes vitamin A, vitamin C and folate. And most importantly seaweed is very high in iodine, sea vegetables are one of the richest sources of thyroid health enhancing iodine. 

4. Low in calories and fat

A single-cup serving of seaweed contains only 28 calories.One portion makes for a fantastic, guilt-free snack that still leaves room for other healthy treats. 

5. Full of flavour

Seaweed has what’s known as an umami flavour, also known as the fifth taste. It’s a savoury taste that you also find in mushrooms, miso and soya sauce, and has the characteristics of a well-made broth.

6. Easy to eat

Seaweed goes down incredibly easily thanks to the many ways it can be consumed. Do you want a crispy seaweed snack, or would you prefer some ocean salad seaweed mixed with your favourite raw veggies and dip?

7. Can be used in lots of different ways

Seaweed can be added to soups and stews, mixed into a salad, used in wraps, added to Asian broths, paired with pasta, cooked as a side dish and can even be incorporated in to home-made bread. With so many versatile uses, it can easily become a staple in your pantry.

8. Readily available now

You no longer need to visit Asian supermarkets to buy your seaweed! You can simply order one of our wonderful varieties straight to your door. And all our seaweed comes in dried form so you can rehydrate it whenever you need it without worrying about it spoiling.

Seaweed is incredibly easy to add to your diet and has a salty, rich flavour that everyone can enjoy. It’s easy to add to meals and comes in handy snack form for healthy eating on-the-go. This sea superfood is easy to prepare and lasts for a long time in the cupboard.


Detox Trading's organic range of seaweeds are bursting with nutrients, containing a rich supply of minerals like iodine, calcium, copper and iron.Seaweed is also rich in protein, fibre and vitamins, specifically vitamin K and folic acid while being low in calories and fat. Visit our website for more information on the fantastic products that we supply.

Superfood powders: How could they benefit you?

 With so many superfood products on the market today, it can be hard to know exactly what to buy and how it could benefit you. This brief guide will introduce you to some of the superfood powders supplied by Detox Trading, with handy information about their background, benefits and how best to use them.

Lucuma Powder

Lucuma powder (pronounced Loo-Ku-Ma) is sourced from farms across Peru, particularly in Pesco, central Peru. This product is made from a raw and nutrient dense fruit, and is so widely sought after due to its exotic and fragrant flavour, that it’s been named the ‘Gold of the Incas’. Just some of the benefits of Lucuma powder include its ability to improve metabolism, the maintenance of healthy teeth and bones, and it encourages consistent function of cell membranes. 

Lucuma powder has a beautifully rich and creamy texture, making it a great addition to your breakfast smoothie and porridge. It can also be added to deserts and ice-creams and can even be made into a fruit coulis. Within Peru, it is one of the most popular desert flavours.

 Maca Powder

 Maca powder was originally cultivated in Peru, and has been grown and used consistently by the native Incas for over 2000 years. The powder itself comes in three different varieties; Yellow, black and red, each offering some different benefits due to the nutrients in the pigment of the plants skin. This superfood powder holds a variety of nutrients, including key vitamins such as B1, B2, C and E. It is also a great source of vitamin C and calcium, whilst containing fatty acids, alkaloids and steroids that help with the general maintenance and well-being of you and your body. This product is suitable for vegetarians and vegans, is completely GMO free, and free of all allergens, meaning that it’s suitable for wide range of dietary requirements.

 Maca powder has a range of medicinal uses that could improve numerous aspects of your life, from chronic fatigue and a weak immune system, to hormone balance and sexual function. The powder can be combined with juices, smoothies or even in porridge and cereals, you could even try making a maca-chino. 

Moringa Leaf Powder

Moringa Leaf Powder is derived from the Moringa Oleifera tree in India, otherwise dubbed as the ‘Miracle of Moringa’. It is most commonly used for its medicinal purposes, and it's bright green colouring. The flavouring is often likened to spinach or asparagus. This superfood powder is an excellent source of fibre and proteins, containing vitamins A, E, B1, B2, B3, B12 and C, and minerals iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and copper. This is your daily multivitamin in powder form! It also boasts an extremely long list of benefits that include metabolism maintenance, skin improvement, improved cardiovascular health and improved vision and muscle function. For a more comprehensive list, visit this page. 

Purple Corn Flour

Purple Corn Flour is unique variety of gluten-free flour, grown in the inter-Andean valleys of Lima, Ancash and Arequipa in Peru. The unique colouring of this flour has made it popular choice of dye and colourant in foods and drinks, and has been used by Native South Americans for centuries. It’s also a great replacement for wheat, corn and other flours, making it the perfect addition to cakes, breads, tortillas and even pancakes. This product is an antioxidant power house, due to its high levels of anthocyanins, which gives it the unique purple colouring. This powder can be used as an anti-inflammatory, and is also known to help lower blood pressure and maintain kidney health.

 Detox Trading is a family run businesses supplying premium, organic superfood products and powders to help improve the wellbeing of your body. Visit our website for further information about the products we stock.

He Shou Wu: What can it do for you?

With a mysterious history as rich as the culture it derives from, He Shou Wu (pronounced he-show-woo) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 3,000 years. Also known as Fo-Ti, this particular herb is considered to be the elixir of life in Asian herbalism, with properties that help to preserve stamina, vigour, and youth. He Shou Wu is specially prepared tuberous root of the Polygonum Multiflorumplant, found in the mountains of southern and central China. 

Legend suggests that a weak and frail man by the name of Neng Si would come to discover He Shou Wu after waking from a drunken sleep. He found entwined plant vines and decided to dig them up, and take them home. Following the advice of a passing hermit, Neng Si ground the root into a powder and ate some, only to find a few days later that he was beginning to feel stronger, and more energetic. In a matter of months, he would transform from a hapless, to virile and would even come to father a number of sons in the coming years. The herb had rejuvenated him, and it has been a highly-revered energising tonic ever since.  

Anti-ageing 

As the tale of Neng Si suggests, He Shou Wu is widely regaled for its anti-ageing benefits. It is not only-supposed to be of great use in maintaining vibrant looking hair, but it is also said to help strengthen the back and joints. He Shou Wu is also full of antioxidants that can also help to look after the eyes. 

Libido Booster  

These youthful properties go beyond physical appearance and mobility. Not only will this particular herb prove useful in maintaining a youthful and healthy sex drive, but it is also considered to be extremely useful in seeking to improve fertility when looking to conceive a child. 

Zinc and Iron supplement       

The high levels of zinc and iron in this herb make it an excellent cell producer, and it even stimulates blood-generating cells and improves circulation. It can be extremely difficult to maintain the necessary levels of these minerals, therefore to keep up with the levels that your body needs to run smoothly, the addition of He Shou Wu is absolutely essential. 

Rejuvenation of mind and body 

He Shou Wu is, above all else, an energising tonic in Asian herbalism, therefore it is a valuable dietary addition that could help to keep your energy levels up. In addition, it is said to have properties that help to reverse hair loss, and can help to protect and restore DNA, improve brain and liver function, and can help to boost the immune system. 

Calming 

For those who experience periods of high stress and anxiety, He Shou Wu has a number of calming properties, thanks to its natural balancing and muscle relaxant properties. The health and wellness benefits really do seem to be endless. 

How should you take it? 

Before it can be safely taken as a tonic herb, He Shou Wu needs to be properly prepared. At Detox Trading, our organic He Shou Wu is sliced and stewed in a black bean stew. The roots are then dried and ground in to a powder. Traditionally He Shou Wu is the ideal herb to be made as a hot tea, or can be simply mixed with cooler water. If you are interested in the hair growth properties, then creating a mixture with oil or water, then rubbing it directly in to the scalp could have a much more noticeable effect.  

Start with a small dose, no more than 1/4 teaspoon daily, and slowly work up to 1 teaspoon a day.   

As a family-run business, Detox Trading is dedicated to providing premium quality, organic superfoods, certified by the UK Soil Association. Visit our website for more information about the fantastic herb that is He Shou Wu, or view some of our other amazing organic powders and superfoods. 

8 Tips to help detox mind and body

Daily life takes its toll on our mind and body. With constant exposure to airborne pollutants and diets that are high in processed foods, it’s important to take some time to flush out those harmful toxins. To help reset our mind and body, here are a few tips for a full body detox.  

1.      Cut the sugar

I think it’s fair to say that we’ve all been guilty of eating too many foods that are high in sugar. If your diet consists of a lot of sugary foods, this could eventually lead to chronic fatigue and weight gain. High sugar intake increases your blood glucose levels, which in turn can make you hungry again quicker and in the long term cause problems with insulin production, leading to type 2 diabetes and other health problems. 

2.      Get moving 

Regular exercise improves blood circulation. The release of endorphins will help to improve your overall mood and reduce stress, anxiety, and tension. Your body will feel stronger, and you’ll feel more energised. It will even help improve your quality of sleep. 

3.      Drink more water 

It sounds simple but drinking more water is one of the key elements to good health and is essential to help detox both your body and mind. Obviously water is extremely hydrating but it also helps important minerals move freely in to the cells while also helping flush out toxins. Water can ease a headache, relieve fatigue, improve skin, aids weight loss and improves energy levels. 8 glasses or 2 litres is an ideal daily amount, try adding a slice of lemon, some fresh cucumber or mint to mix up the flavour. 

4.      Sweat it out 

Traditional detoxing solutions can require some lifestyle adjustment, but for something a little simpler, taking a steam could be an excellent and relaxing solution. Regular trips to the sauna will help to flush out any toxins through your sweat. Always remember to effectively rehydrate following a sauna session, as your body would have lost valuable liquids during the process.

5.      Treat yourself to a massage 

While using the sauna at your local spa, why not book yourself in for an exfoliating massage? Not only is this an indulgent and relaxing treat for yourself, but the therapist will also be tackling those toxins through the circulation and massage process. Again, ensure to hydrate after your massage to help flush out those harmful toxins.

6.      Meditate 

An effective detox isn’t just about the body, but also requires focus on your overall mental wellbeing. Meditation is an effective stress and anxiety buster. It will also help you to focus on the positive aspects of your life. Deep breathing will help to focus your mind and calm your body, encouraging an overall sense of wellness.

7.      Go fresh and organic 

Fresh and organic vegetables are rich in the vital nutrients that will help improve digestion. Consider starting your day with a vegetable-rich smoothie to help kick-start your system and prepare for the day.

Adjusting your diet also means eliminating harmful oils from your diet, including vegetable, peanut, and sunflower oil. There are plenty of good oils that can be used in cooking, but all in moderation. Try switching to coconut oil or ghee for a healthier alternative when cooking. 

8.      Boost our vitamin intake 

If your body is lacking in key vitamins and minerals you will likely feel sluggish, lethargic, and just not on top of your game. B Vitamins, Vitamin C and Vitamin E are all excellent to help a cleanse your system and improve your wellbeing. 

Filled with essential pre and probiotics for gut, liver, and digestive tract detox, the Detoxifying Superfood Blend available from Detox Trading is wonderfully cleansing and detoxifying. It’s also full of vital vitamins including A, B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12, and minerals such as potassium, iron and magnesium to help tackle harmful toxins and detox your system. 

Detox Trading supplies premium quality organic superfoods that are fully certified by the UK Soil Association. Visit our website for more information on the fantastic products that we supply.

The benefits of rosehip - stay young, stay active, stay healthy

The health benefits of rosehip are vast and include the ability to reduce symptoms of various conditions, including arthritis, asthma and flu. They can also help you to lower your cholesterol levels, as well as help with diabetes management, the regulation of your digestive system and increase the frequency you urinate. Their ability to boost the immune system, aid your body with the production of stronger bones and improve your circulatory system makes it a well-loved natural remedy in high demand.

Rose hips are the fruit of the rose plants. They bloom after the rosebud falls off, usually in late summer or early autumn.

Rose hips are incredibly popular in a variety of forms, including syrup, oil, powder and capsules. They contain a mixture of various minerals, essential nutrients and organic compounds (such as calcium, magnesium, iron, pectin, lutien and lycopene), giving them a long list of health benefits and the ability to help to relieve a number of different health conditions. The antioxidant components, which include phytochemicals, flavonoids, and carotenoids, also contribute to the health benefits.

So, what are the health benefits?

Prevents numerous health conditions

Rosehip contains carotenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols, all of which are known to act as a powerful antioxidant, with the power to eliminate or neutralise free radicals that are found within the body. These free radicals are the byproducts of cellular metabolism and have the ability to damage healthy cells by causing the mutation into cancerous cells, or simply by just killing the cells entirely. A common variable which is connected to a long list of serious conditions is the lack of antioxidants, or production of free radicals. These conditions can include cancer, heart disease and premature ageing.

Lowers cholesterol

Some of the organic compounds and antioxidants that are found in rosehip can also reduce the cholesterol content in your body, helping to reduce strain on your heart and lowering your overall chances of suffering from a stroke or heart attack.

Immune system

Rosehip has a fairly impressive level of vitamin C, which is one of the best compounds that can be used to help the immune system. Vitamin C is incredibly helpful in the prevention of asthma and is good for the general health of the respiratory system as it stimulates your white blood cells. This lowers the chances of cold or flu viruses.

Diabetes management

Rosehip has been known to regulate the blood sugar level within the body, an incredibly important use for those people suffering from diabetes. Rosehip helps to prevent sudden spikes or plunges in blood sugar levels by keeping the balance of glucose and insulin steady.

Diuretic effects and digestion

Pectin, combined with the various acids present in rosehip, have been known to have a diuretic effect, causing urination as well as assisting with the regularity and consistency and bowel movements while helping to eradicate toxins from the body as well as excess salts, fats and liquids. By stimulating bowel movements, rosehip can help with the prevention of a number of unfortunate and uncomfortable conditions.

Skin care

Everyone wants to have beautiful skin. We want flawless, blemish-free, youthful skin with an even skin tone and a healthy glow. Our quest for vanity is often tackled with an array of different skin products, many include chemicals or synthetic ingredients and some people even turn to fillers that can be injected to tighten and tone the skin. Rosehip is one of the best natural ways to achieve better-looking skin. With an astringent quality, rosehip is able to improve the elasticity of your skin, while helping to maintain a blemish-free appearance.

Bone health

Another great quality of rosehip comes from its vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a vital role in the production of collagen in the body. Collagen has a number of various parts to play within the human body, but one of its main tasks, when paired with various other important minerals found in the rosehip, is to help maintain the mineral density of bones - helping you to prevent, or even beat, osteoporosis.

Get your chocolate fix, superfood style…

Get your chocolate fix, superfood style…

If, like us, you’re a massive chocoholic, you may be wondering how you can get all the goodness you need while enjoying your favourite snack. The good news is that with the variety of cacao products available, it’s perfectly possible to eat chocolate and enhance your health and wellness.

Raw cacao beans, although an acquired taste, are definitely worth trying, just for their health benefits. They are categorised as a superfood because they contain so many antioxidants and micronutrients. Cacao beans help you to feel more energised, support your immune system and can do wonders for your hair, teeth, nails and skin. 

If you fancy trying something different with your cacao beans, we recommend toasting the beans in a pan. After they’ve popped, you can put the shells in a cup and pour over hot water to make cacao tea – it’s absolutely delicious! For those who prefer a rich hot chocolate, take the shelled beans and grind them into a paste before adding hot nut milk or water, along with vanilla and some natural sweetener.

Your preference may be to have something closer to the chocolate you know and love instead but without the refined sugar and dairy. If that’s the case, then you could try making your own organic raw chocolate blocks. Using coconut oil, raw cacao powder, raw cacao butter, and coconut palm sugar you can create your own version of chocolate heaven, it will taste great and you'll benefit from the wide range of nutrients that raw cacao provides. You could even try adding your own flavours, from banana powder or goji berry powder to dried mulberries and pumpkin seeds.  

We really love adding blueberry powder and hulled hemp seeds, the flavour combo works really well and comes with the added benefit of the protein, omega 3 and antioxidants found in these special ingredients.

Hopefully that gives you some good ideas but if you’re a chocoholic on a superfood mission and you’ve got any recommendations, we’d love to hear from you!