Chocolate begins with a bean... a cacao bean. The scientific name of the cacao tree's fruit is "Theobroma Cacao" which means "food of the gods." In fact, the cacao bean was worshipped as an idol by the Mayan Indians over 2,000 years ago.

The cacao bean is often thought of as a culinary nut. Raw organic cacao is high quality cacao and can be used in raw food treats like smoothies, brownies and pies.

When you taste raw cacao for the first time, it will taste somwhat bitter, but it has a way of growing on you.

Nutrition nibbles: Cacao contains a wide array of unique properties and minerals, including high levels of sulfur and magnesium. It may increase your focus and alertness and contains nutrients that elevate your mood, keeping you "happier".

Dark Chocolate: Studies have shown this decadent favorite, in small amounts, may help to lower inflammation and improve blood flow -reducing risk for heart disease (among other health benefits).

Like better quality coffee, olive oil, or wine, fine chocolate is worth the splurge - not only for eating out of hand, but for baking too. Now you can find a remarkable selection - from unsweetened and bittersweet to sweeter varieties like dark chocolate and milk chocolate - even at the supermarket.

Look for brands with the percentage of cacao - the proportion of cocoa to sugar and other ingredients) on the label. And note that the higher the percentage of cacao you select, the richer your chocolate experience will be.

Suggestion: Take a healthy banana and make a Quick Frozen Chocolate Banana treat.

See also: The Nutrients in Chocolate, Our Chocolate Recipe Collection

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