Cacao is known for its health benefits and delightful taste. The question of whether to consume it in the morning or at night depends on what you hope to achieve. Both times offer distinct advantages and some drawbacks.
Below, we will explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of drinking cacao at different times of the day and help you decide which is better for your needs or take time to have a peek at this website.
Benefits Of Drinking Cacao In The Morning
Starting your day with cacao can be an energising and mood-boosting choice. Here are the key benefits of having cacao in the morning.
1. Increased Energy And Alertness
Drinking cacao in the morning offers a mild but effective energy boost. Unlike coffee, which has a sharp caffeine spike, cacao provides a more gradual and sustained energy release, thanks to theobromine.
- Steady energy: Theobromine stimulates the central nervous system gently, enhancing alertness without the crash associated with coffee.
- Mental clarity: The antioxidants and magnesium in cacao also support brain function, boosting focus and productivity.
2. Improved Mood
Cacao contains compounds like phenylethylamine, which trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin, promoting a happier, more balanced mood.
- Feel-good hormones: Drinking cacao in the morning can naturally lift your spirits, setting a positive tone for the day.
- Stress relief: Cacao has been shown to help lower stress hormones, providing an emotional boost to start the day with calm energy.
3. Better Digestion
Magnesium in cacao promotes smooth digestion by relaxing muscles and regulating the digestive process. This can help improve gut health.
- Supports digestion: Drinking cacao on an empty stomach can stimulate the digestive system, preparing it for the day ahead.
- Prevents bloating: The natural fibre content in cacao can also help with regular bowel movements.
Drawbacks Of Drinking Cacao In The Morning
While drinking cacao in the morning has several advantages, there are a few things to consider before making it a daily routine.
1. Potential For Sleep Disruption
Although cacao contains less caffeine than coffee, it still has stimulating effects due to theobromine. For some people, consuming it too early in the day can still impact sleep quality later on.
- Heightened sensitivity: If you are sensitive to theobromine, you may experience restlessness or anxiety, particularly if consumed in larger quantities.
- Increased heart rate: For some individuals, the mild stimulating effects may lead to an elevated heart rate, making it harder to relax later in the day.
2. Not Suitable For Empty Stomachs
While cacao can aid digestion, drinking it on an empty stomach may not be ideal for everyone. Some people may experience discomfort or indigestion when consuming cacao without food.
- Stomach irritation: The acidity of cacao could potentially irritate the stomach lining if consumed without food.
- Blood sugar fluctuations: Drinking cacao without food may lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, especially if consumed in large amounts.
Benefits Of Drinking Cacao At Night
For those seeking a calming, indulgent beverage before bed, cacao at night can have numerous benefits, particularly when it comes to relaxation and sleep.
1. Promotes Relaxation And Calmness
The magnesium in cacao is well known for its ability to help the body relax. It has a calming effect on both the muscles and the nervous system, making it an ideal choice for evening consumption.
- Muscle relaxation: Magnesium helps relieve tension in the muscles, creating a soothing effect that can support a restful night’s sleep.
- Stress relief: Cacao helps reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone, encouraging relaxation and mental calmness before bed.
2. Supports Better Sleep
Cacao has been linked to improved sleep quality due to its magnesium content, which helps regulate melatonin levels, a hormone responsible for sleep-wake cycles.
- Improved sleep quality: The calming effects of cacao can prepare the body for a more restful sleep.
- Regulation of sleep cycles: Drinking cacao before bed can help establish a more consistent and uninterrupted sleep pattern.
3. Satisfies Sweet Cravings
If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth at night but want a healthier alternative, cacao is an excellent option. It has a rich, chocolatey taste but with fewer calories and sugars compared to traditional desserts.
- Low-sugar indulgence: Cacao offers a way to enjoy a sweet treat without the sugar overload that comes with typical evening snacks.
- Natural cravings management: The natural bitterness of cacao helps curb sugar cravings, making it a good choice for those trying to limit sugar intake before bed.
Drawbacks Of Drinking Cacao At Night
While cacao at night offers plenty of relaxation benefits, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
1. Potential Sleep Disruptions For Sensitive Individuals
Cacao contains theobromine, a mild stimulant. While it is much less potent than caffeine, it can still cause disruptions to sleep for people who are sensitive to stimulants.
- Possible stimulation: If you’re particularly sensitive, cacao could prevent you from falling asleep or reduce the quality of your sleep.
- Heightened heart rate: The mild stimulating effects of cacao might cause an increased heart rate, making it harder to drift into a deep sleep.
2. May Cause Nighttime Digestive Issues
Drinking cacao at night may cause some people to experience digestive discomfort, especially if consumed too close to bedtime .
- Indigestion: If you have sensitive stomach or digestive issues, drinking cacao right before bed could lead to bloating or acid reflux.
- Increased metabolism: The theobromine in cacao might slightly increase metabolism, which could make falling asleep more difficult for some individuals.
Which Is Better: Drinking Cacao In The Morning Or Night?
Ultimately, whether it’s better to drink cacao in the morning or night depends on your personal goals and how your body reacts to cacao.
Drinking Cacao In The Morning
- Best for: A natural energy boost, improved mood, and enhanced focus to start your day.
- Ideal for: People who need a gentle wake-up drink and prefer to avoid the jitters caused by caffeine.
- Considerations: If you’re sensitive to stimulants, morning consumption might be preferable to avoid sleep disturbances.
Drinking Cacao At Night
- Best for: Promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, and satisfying sweet cravings without guilt.
- Ideal for: Those who need a calming ritual before bed or want to unwind after a stressful day.
- Considerations: If you’re particularly sensitive to stimulants or have digestive issues, it may be best to avoid cacao too close to bedtime.
In general, for people who are sensitive to stimulants, drinking cacao in the morning may be a better option. However, for those looking for a relaxing evening ritual, drinking cacao at night can help promote restful sleep and provide a soothing end to the day.
Conclusion
Whether you drink cacao in the morning or at night depends on your lifestyle and goals. Drinking cacao in the morning can offer a mild energy boost, improve mood, and enhance focus, while evening consumption provides relaxation, stress relief, and better sleep quality.
The key is to listen to your body and choose the time that aligns best with your daily routine and health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Drinking Cacao At Night Affect My Sleep?
For most people, drinking cacao at night will not disrupt sleep, and it may even promote relaxation due to its magnesium content. However, if you’re sensitive to theobromine, the mild stimulant in cacao, it could interfere with your sleep.
How Much Cacao Should I Drink In The Morning?
For the best benefits, it’s recommended to consume around 1-2 tablespoons of raw cacao powder mixed into a drink or smoothie. This provides health benefits without overwhelming your system with too much theobromine or caffeine.
Is It Ok To Drink Cacao Every Day?
Yes, drinking cacao every day is generally safe for most people. It provides several health benefits, including improved mood, heart health, and energy. However, it’s best consumed in moderation, particularly if you have sensitive digestion or caffeine sensitivity.