Cacao has been used for centuries and is steeped in religion, spirituality and healing. Nowadays it’s considered a modern superfood and is increasingly consumed within Western cultures. If you’re thinking of swapping out your morning coffee, you may wonder, does cacao have caffeine in it? In this blog, we reveal the caffeine levels in cacao as well as its other energising properties. 

• What is cacao?

• Does cacao contain coffee?

• How does cacao compare to coffee? 

• Cacao’s energising properties 

• How does cacao affect energy levels? 

• Other health benefits of cacao 

• How to enjoy cacao

• Organic Cacao Lattes by Sweet Revolution

What is Cacao? 

Often referred to as a nutritional powerhouse, cacao is the raw material from which chocolate is made and cacao beans are considered among the most nutritious plants on the planet! Grown primarily in Africa and Central America, cacao trees produce pods that, when cracked open, reveal cacao beans.

One of the most popular forms is cacao powder. When these beans are ground into powder without any processing or refining, cacao powder retains all the natural nutrients and benefits of the original bean. This makes it a highly nutritious addition to various foods and beverages.

Does Cacao Contain Caffeine?

The answer is yes, cacao does contain caffeine, but the amount is significantly less than what you’ll find in a cup of coffee. Therefore, although caffeine is well-known for its ability to enhance alertness and reduce fatigue, there are only small amounts in cacao. 

Cacao also contains theobromine, a more abundant compound similar to caffeine but with milder stimulant effects. It is found to have energy and mood-boosting effects, contributing to a sense of wellbeing and alertness without the jitteriness often associated with caffeine.

How Does Cacao Compare to Coffee? 

Cacao has much less caffeine than coffee. One tablespoon of cacao powder contains around 20g milligrams of caffeine, whereas an eight-ounce cup of drip coffee has between 80 and 135 milligrams. Unless you consume huge amounts of cacao daily, its caffeine content won’t come close to that of coffee, which is great if you are more sensitive to caffeine and are looking for a less stimulating morning ritual. 

Cacao’s Energising Properties

Adding cacao to your day offers numerous energising benefits. Here are our top five:

1. Reduce Tiredness & Fatigue

Cacao powder is rich in magnesium, which can help to reduce tiredness and fatigue.

2. Improve Digestion

Cacao powder contains 33% fibre, helping to improve digestive function and gut health.

3. Supports Cell Repair & Muscle Recovery

Cacao also contains 23% protein, which is essential for cell repair and muscle recovery.

4. Enhanced Mood

Ever eaten a piece of chocolate and felt your mood improve? That’s the serotonin and endorphins in cacao that help to enhance mood and create a sense of euphoria.  

5. Skin Boosting Properties

Cacao also contains antioxidants that neutralise skin-damaging free radicals and can improve collagen production, supporting glowy and plump skin.

How Does Cacao Affect Energy Levels? 

Cacao seeds contain traces of theobromine, caffeine and antioxidants. The combination of these produces enhanced mood and cognition, as well as promotes cardiovascular recovery and overall health. In addition, raw cacao contains essential minerals, vitamins and fibre such as: 

• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Iron
• Zinc
• Copper
• Potassium
• Manganese

Raw cacao is the highest known source of magnesium per gram on the planet and contains essential vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, and E. All this goodness plays an important part in body functions like immune support, wound healing and regulating hormones, making cacao a real powerhouse in health and wellbeing. 

Other Health Benefits of Cacao

We’ve already covered cacao’s energising benefits, so let’s look at its other health benefits. We’ve chosen three that we think are perfect for the busy 20th-century world we live in right now!

Prevent Cognitive Decline

Medical research suggests that drinking 2-4 cups of cacao a day may help to prevent cognitive decline as we age. Cacao’s combination of minerals, antioxidants and theobromine has been found to increase levels of a complex protein that stimulates the growth of nerves in the brain and the connections between them, helping to repair nerves after they’ve been damaged.

Stress-Reliever & Anti-depressant

A study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that people who consumed high levels of cacao experienced a reduction in levels of stress hormones, depression and anxiety. Raw cacao contains a compound called anandamide, a neurotransmitter that scientists link to feelings of relaxation, mental stability and well-being.

Cognitive Function

Research has shown that the intake of cacao can have a positive impact on cognitive functions such as memory, critical thinking, verbal fluency, and attention. All things that we need for work or in our day-to-day lives! 

How to Enjoy Cacao

Cacao can be enjoyed in a variety of forms from cacao nibs sprinkled over porridge to the use of cacao powder to create a delicious drink. We like the latter and a hot cacao just can’t be beaten in our eyes, it’s the ultimate upgrade to a standard hot chocolate. Warm and comforting, it’s easy to enjoy by mixing raw cacao powder with hot water or milk (dairy or plant-based) and sweetening it to taste.

Organic Cacao Lattes by Sweet Revolution

At Sweet Revolution, we love the nutritional aspect of cacao as well as its delicious chocolatey taste. Our Cacao Latte Blends are the hot chocolate upgrade you’ve been looking for, all without any refined sugar and the addition of Chaga mushrooms for an indulgent ‘feel-good’ cup.