Dark chocolate lovers, rejoice! Brewed cacao, also known as chocolate tea, is a new way to enjoy the delightful flavor of chocolate without the added sugar and fat. With only 20 calories per serving, brewed cacao is a healthier alternative to traditional hot chocolate.

Not only is it low in calories, but brewed cacao is also rich in antioxidants, fiber, and flavanols, making it a nutritious choice for any chocolate lover. In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of brewed cacao, its side effects, and how to make it at home.

Whether you're looking for a warming treat on a cold day or an energy boost before your morning workout, brewed cacao is a delicious and healthy choice.

What is brewed cacao?

Brewed cacao is made by steeping roasted cacao beans in hot water, much like you would steep tea leaves. The resulting brew has a rich, chocolate flavor that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other ingredients like spices, honey, or milk. Unlike cocoa powder or chocolate bars, brewed cacao retains most of its nutrients, including antioxidants and flavanols. This means that you can enjoy the taste of chocolate while also reaping its health benefits. Although brewed cacao looks similar to coffee, it contains far less caffeine - about 25-50mg per serving compared to coffee's 95mg. This makes it a great alternative for those who want a warm drink without the jitters.

How many calories are in brewed cacao?

Brewed cacao is a low-calorie drink, with only 20 calories per 2 tablespoon serving. This makes it a great choice for those who want to indulge in chocolate flavor without adding extra pounds.

What are the health benefits of brewed cacao?

Brewed cacao is packed with nutrients and antioxidants that can help improve your overall health. Some of the potential benefits of brewed cacao include:

• Improved heart health: The flavanols in cacao have been shown to help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, reducing your risk of heart disease.
• Better digestion: Cacao is high in fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.
• Reduced inflammation: The antioxidants in cacao can help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially reducing your risk of chronic diseases like cancer.

While more research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of brewed cacao, it's clear that this tasty drink has a lot to offer!

What are the side effects of consuming brewed cacao?

Although brewed cacao is generally safe for most people, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. These include:

• Caffeine sensitivity: Although brewed cacao contains less caffeine than coffee, it can still cause jitters, nervousness, and insomnia in sensitive individuals.
• Stomach upset: Some people may experience stomach upset or diarrhea after drinking brewed cacao, especially if they consume large amounts.
• Allergic reactions: While rare, some people may be allergic to cacao and experience symptoms like hives or difficulty breathing.

If you experience any of these symptoms after drinking brewed cacao, stop consuming it and speak to your healthcare provider.

Is brewed cacao good for weight loss?

Brewed cacao is a low-calorie, low-fat drink, making it a good choice for those who are trying to lose weight. Additionally, the fiber in cacao can help regulate appetite and prevent overeating. However, it's important to remember that brewed cacao is not a magic weight loss cure. To lose weight, you still need to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Can brewed cacao boost your energy?

Although brewed cacao contains less caffeine than coffee, it can still provide a mild boost of energy. The flavanols in cacao can help improve blood flow to the brain, potentially increasing mental alertness and focus. Additionally, the theobromine in cacao can provide a feeling of alertness and vitality without the jitters or crash associated with caffeine. If you're looking for a natural energy-boosting drink, brewed cacao may be worth a try.

How to make brewed cacao?

Making your own brewed cacao is easy and only requires a few ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

• 2 tablespoons of roasted cacao nibs
• 2 cups of water
• Optional additions: honey, cinnamon, cardamom, milk, etc.

To make brewed cacao, simply heat the water in a saucepan until it reaches a simmer. Add the cacao nibs and let them steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, then serve hot.

Can you add milk to brewed cacao?

Yes, you can definitely add milk to brewed cacao! In fact, adding milk or a milk alternative like almond milk or oat milk can create a delicious and creamy beverage that's perfect for cold winter days. Just be aware that adding milk will increase the calorie content and reduce the antioxidant content of your brewed cacao. If you're trying to keep the calorie count low, stick to water or a non-caloric milk alternative.

Does brewed cacao have caffeine?

Yes, brewed cacao does contain caffeine, but in smaller amounts than coffee. A 2 tablespoon serving of brewed cacao contains about 25-50mg of caffeine, while a cup of coffee contains around 95mg. If you're sensitive to caffeine or trying to reduce your intake, brewed cacao may be a good alternative to coffee.

How to store brewed cacao?

Brewed cacao can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to transfer it to an airtight container or jar with a tight-fitting lid to prevent spoilage or contamination. You can also freeze brewed cacao in ice cube trays and store the cubes in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw the cubes in the microwave or on the stove for a quick and easy warm drink.