Cacaonibs are small pieces of cocoa bean.
Cocoa beans come from the cocoa tree, which is native to the tropical Mesoamerica region.
The cocoa bean is used to make chocolate, cocoa powder, andcocoa butter.
ninelutsk / Getty Images
Cacao nibs contain a high amount ofpolyphenols, including flavonoids/flavanols.
Cacao nibs are also called cocoa nibs.
The use of the word “cacao” vs. “cocoa” in research and general use is inconsistent.
This article will use the terms interchangeably.
Always talk to a healthcare provider about your symptoms and health concerns.
Why Are Cacao Nibs Healthy?
Cocoa nibs are rich in polyphenols, particularly flavonoids.
They also have alkaloids, such astheobromine.
These substances have antioxidant properties and may contribute to a number of health benefits.
Another study found that polyphenol-richdark chocolatereduced fasting blood glucose levels in people with diabetes and overweight or obesity.
What Can Lower the Benefits of Cocoa?
There is evidence that the fermentation and roasting of cocoa beans reduce their flavanol content.
Cocoa beans are usually fermented after they are harvested and then roasted.
The fermentation and roasting significantly decrease the polyphenol andflavanolcontent of the cocoa.
This blood vessel connects two major arteries that carry blood away from the heart.
More studies are needed to determine the safety of cocoa inlate pregnancy.
High levels of caffeine can be harmful in people who aren’t pregnant as well.
Typically, the darker the chocolate, the higher the risk if your pet eats it.
If your pet ingests cocoa or chocolate, consider it a medical emergency.
Call or go to the veterinarian right away.
Sourcing Quality Cacao Nibs
Cacao nibsare available in many places, particularly specialty shops and high-end chocolatiers.
They can be eaten as is or added to sweet or savory dishes.
They are high in polyphenols and other substances that can provide health benefits, such as promoting cardiovascular health.
Polyphenol-rich cocoa may have harmful effects on a fetus when consumed in the third trimester.
More research is needed in this area.
Caffeine should be kept to a low level during pregnancy.
Large amounts of caffeine can be harmful to people who are not pregnant, as well.
Cacao nibs are bitter and crunchy.
2017;4:36. doi:10.3389/fnut.2017.00036
Department of Agriculture.Cacao nibs.
2015;11(1):21-29.
2016;4(1):6. doi:10.3390/diseases4010006
Greenberg JA.Chocolate intake and diabetes risk.Clin Nutr.
2014;5. doi:10.3389/fphar.2014.00281
Government of Canada.Your guide to a healthy pregnancy.
British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.Signs of chocolate toxicity in your dog.
University of California, Davis campus.Chocolate poisoning in dogs.
Cacao Magazine.Cacao nibs: what are they and how do you use them?
