#but we better get a Dark Cacao update this year

[quibbs126]

I really want Dark Cacao and Dark Choco to get a Special Episode update some point this year

Not sure what the plot would be, but I just want to see the random trivia stuff that comes with the Special Episodes for them

[wonderfull-star]

I want to write this post just to feel nostalgic and remember what the game used to be like for me. I’ll say right away that I won’t describe past updates, but will simply share my thoughts and later what I’m NOT happy with in the game now.

Is there anyone here who, like me, started playing in December 2021? Remember how the game used to be simple without any unnecessary donations? Do you remember how before it was impossible to change the background music and in winter the special music was always turned on? Do you remember how before there was only a dragon in the guild? Do you remember when the first special story with Creme Republic just came out and before we all in the fandom thought that Clotted Cream Cookie was a villain? Do you remember in the game was given a special item for achieving a master in the arena? Do you remember when there wasn’t even Alliance? Do you remember when the update with the Black Pearl just came out and for many it became the best update in the game due to many unique mechanics? Remember how in the game, as a bonus for the new update, cookie cutters were given for promoting cookies? Remember the old mileage system? Remember before there were no special stories, only the main and tropical soda island? Remember how before the max level was only 60? Remember when there used to be only story and dark mods? Do you remember when there were no souldrops in the game? Do you remember how before the game only had common, rare, epic, legendary and ancient? Remember how everyone used to love the Tower of Sweet Chaos? Do you remember Cookies of Darkness? I haven't seen them for a long time.. This is really annoying. Like, we've already been seen the main story of the Dark Cacao kingdom. Is it really so difficult to reveal other tribes at least a little? For example, many people likes Licorice cookie. I'm sure everyone was looking forward to the update with him(

Now there is nothing left of this former feeling. Devsisters add everything to the game and add innovations that are not really necessary. The plot became completely incomprehensible. The character wanders aimlessly here and there, with no clear intentions. Although before, the entire goal of the main team was very clear - to stop Dark Enchantress Cookie. And knowing Gingerbrave, he logically would have done this a long time ago, knowing how reckless and brave he can be. Nothing is clear about the villains at all. It's like they decided to take a vacation. Well, or they were already eaten by that strange substance from the dough. This would explain the reason for their absence. Seriously, they had so many chances to attack the main team. And don't even talk about retreat. Because this “retreat” seems to have been going on for them for 3 years already.

The most important problem right now is donation. There's too much of it. At every corner you are forced to pay. The last time I played, it was difficult to even get into Master II. And that would be okay. Devsisters haven't even optimized the game yet. Even Genshin with an open world and high graphics works several times better for me. If they get so much money from whales, then they definitely have the opportunity to optimize the game. But 3 years have passed and there is still no optimization. Disappointment..

Finally, I want to say thanks to the game itself - for all the warm memories it gave me back then. I can't believe it's been 3 whole years since I started playing this game. It seems like it’s not that many, but at the same time it seems like an eternity. Most of all I remember those carefree summer days. I still remember how I was riding on a tour bus while listening to Sorbet Shark theme song 🥺

[ryctone]

TOP 13 OVENBREAK COOKIES I WOULD LIKE TO BE IN KINGDOM (In no particular order);

Number 13 - Captain Ice Cookie

We already go insight that she IS in the CRK universe, so I wouldn't be surprised if she ever becomes playable.

Number 12 - Scorpion Cookie

Since she is a relatively recent character, I dunno if she will even made it in, but I just think she would be an interesting character to have in the cast.

Number 11 - Whipped Cream Cookie

He is one of those classic CROB cookies that I'm surprised aren't in Kingdom yet, like, it would be nice to see him in an event again after not being relevant for YEARS.

Number 10 - Birthday Cake Cookie

Here for nostalgia reason, I have very fond memories of playing with her in CROB when I first got it and I would cry if she ever gets in Kingdom. Will probably mess with the lore of the game tho but I don't care AAHHH-

Number 9 - Walnut and Rougefort Cookie

The obvious choice, they are on the same spot bc come on, you CAN'T have Walnut without Roguefort; ultimate sibling dynamic. Besides, Almond already made it into Ovenbreak and we got to see all of them interact in there, so I just think it would be very cool to see how those interactions translate into Kingdom. (Bonus; Rougefort's voice? *eyes*)

Number 8 - Cookiemals

I love these silly lil creatures and would had loved to see more of them after their debut event- Specially with the whole 'being friends with Wind Archer' thing, but then theres the question; how would they work in a game like Kingdom? Would they had to be separate characters or still be a 3 in 1 deal? If so how would they be coded? I definitely understand if they can't be in Kingdom bc of this, but they are still on my list anyway.

Number 7 - Cyborg Cookie

Like dude, dude hear me out I just think it would be very cool if Devsis gave them a robotic/autotune like voice AND expand on their backstory before becoming a cyborg and not just telling it in the comics asdfghjk.

Number 6 - Chess Choco

In Ovenbreak is LITERALLY revealed they are from the Dark Cacao Kingdom, CROB lore said that kingdom was destroyed but in CRK we know it's fine... So you know- Again, we have the same problem than with the Cookiemals, how would they be coded? But also I feel they are more likely to make it into CRK because of their connection to the Dark Cacao Kingdom.

Number 5 - Rose Cookie

Destroys evil by DANCING, need I say more? Also because she was one of my favorite CROB cookies when I started playing (Still kinda is) so I would love it she was ever to be in CRK. (Bonus; Rose and Raspberry interactions? Hell yes.)

Number 4 - The rest of the dragons

Even if they don't become playable, I would still like to see them in Kingdom as bosses for future story events just like Pitaya did in the Hollyberry update.

Number 3 - Lobster Cookie

We had been robbed and bamboozle from them and that is a crime. Now that Dark Choco left the CoD for good, it would be a great time for Lobster to come back at some point.

Number 2 - Mocha Cookie

Mocha is also here bc again, can't have one without the other! And also because Mocha could be introduced for a CRK Sea Fairy centric event (Something that we also got robbed out of) as a major character.

Number 1 - HERO FCKING COOKIE

You can @ me all you want but I JUST WANT HERO IN KINGDOM OKAY! HERO JUST DESERVES BETTER AND HE MEANS SO MUCH TO ME AND I JUST ASDFGHJKJHGFDHDFKHGKJ-

Thanks for reading! ^^

[perles-infinite-fictional-love]

He REALLY deserves to be written better. Actually, this applies to A LOT of old cookies.

Devsis keeps coming up with new characters (literally like 5 new characters every month or something) and forgets to develop old characters that deserve more attention and depth and an actual PART in the story. Like Milk Cookie's (and Purple Yam Cookie's) story arc of finding Dark Choco Cookie has been GROSSLY neglected (for years now), especially considering how much POTENTIAL it had for the dark Cacao Kingdom update. Unless Devsis has other plans for Milk Cookie's quest that they care about, there are no excuse for them NOT using Milk Cookie (and PYC) in the Cacao update. Also the newest update, "paladin's oath", bruh come on Milk Cookie is a paladin. Where the fuck is he? Where are ANY of the old cookies? Aside from the main 5?

And the saddest thing (for me) about this, is that I feel like Devsis is neglecting Milk Cookie because they know a lot of people don't like him... I'm not gonna lie here, this makes me really sad and bitter. That a character deserving more can just fade away because people were judgemental.

Considering Milk Cookie's entire life purpose is to protect the world against evil, he SHOULD, technically, from a writer's perspective, have a bigger role in the battle against Dark Enchantress Cookie, but here we are. He's just... Almost lesser than a background character. Mostly used for funny cameos and nothing else.

That's even why my fanfic has so much action/adventure. My goal is not just to write some reader fluff, I was like "Wow, they really sucked at writing this character. I want to write a story where people can see his potential." Like I'm literally trying to compensate how poorly Devsis writes Milk Cookie. For my own satisfaction, and also for anyone else willing to read my stuff.

The same could be done for A LOT of cookies, like hell... Even ADVENTURER COOKIE has potential... He could be the first Cookie to find human lands or some shit. But me specifically I have an intense fixation on milk cookie for personal reasons so for now he's the cookie getting the special writing treatment from me.

The reason some of you think Milk Cookie is a creepy Dark Choco stalker is because some of you think that EVERYTHING has to be yaoi or some shit.

To Milk Cookie, Dark Choco Cookie is a top-grade hero that inspired him to become a hero in the name of peace and justice, and one day, now that Milk Cookie is all grown up and able to adventure on his own, he finds out Dark Choco Cookie mysteriously went missing. 

Is it really THAT fucked up that Milk Cookie wants to use his newfound strength to seek out a lost hero, to repay his dept? You know, because Dark Choco Cookie SAVED his life? 

As for Milk Cookie “stalking” Purple Yam Cookie, it was obviously just lazy writing to get the two characters to bond at some point. Also, since they’re both looking for Dark Choco Cookie, it should make sense that they were both heading the same way anyway.

[whatspriceofthe]

Jay Robb Grass-Fed Whey Isolate Vanilla Protein Powder, Outrageously Delicious, 24 oz https://ift.tt/2ZA0ORI #WheyProtein #PreWorkOutDrink #BodyBuildingSupplements https://ift.tt/2ZA0ORI - Jay Robb Grass-Fed Whey Isolate Vanilla Protein Powder, Outrageously Delicious, 24 oz I used this like flour to make fried chicken strips and it was AWESOME! If you are on a low carb diet, this is for you!!! I use this every morning for breakfast as my "30 in 30" for the Tim Ferriss eating plan. This was also how I heard about this product, through Tim Ferriss recommendation. I ordered a new bag in March of 2018 and the packaging is different. My last bag was Dec of 2017 and the packaging was the old familiar. I went to the Jay Robb website to be sure it was authentic, and all the packaging has been updated on the website as well. So, for anyone who may be confused like I was... its still the real deal even though the bag looks different. :) I love this product and that it is unflavored so I can add it to anything. It mixes well and Whey Isolate is more easily digested. Mix this with my morning bullet coffee. Score... I have been making shakes with protein powder for 20+ years and this is the best whey protein I have ever tasted. The fact that its made with rBGH free protein, has no sugar ( uses stevia) and is non-GMO make it well worth the price! I had been using protein from two different major gyms in the CHI area and this beats them by far! Its one of my many mini meals every day. That plus my exercise help keep me lean in my early 70s! Im an avid weight lifter (not looking to get massively jacked, just maintaining what Ive got already), and have been using protein powders for years. I decided to stop using those synthetic, full-of-artificial-ingredients types of protein powders years ago and found Jay Robb. Maybe it was his fantastic mop of hair dyed artificially dark, or his perfectly trimmed 1990s era goatee that caught my attention (just take a look at my pic! ), but Im glad I gave it a try.Jay Robb prides his products on coming from milk from grass-fed cows, and using natural ingredients such as stevia as a sweetener instead of aspartame. Ive tried his vanilla and strawberry powders, but I prefer the taste of the vanilla. It thickens my protein shakes (I use banana, avocado, cacao powder, super greens, and Jay Robb vanilla), and doesnt leave an aftertaste. Since his protein is all-natural, its a little pricier, but Im willing to pay more to avoid putting garbage and fillers into my body. Pay upfront and get the big 80oz. bag; its a much better deal. — INTRODUCTION —Why I use protein powder: I am an avid powerlifter and nutrition fanatic who is extremely conscience about “what” she puts into her body. I have a very aggressive fitness routine where I am in the gym at least 4-5 days a week. Primarily, I engage in a lot of HIIT workouts and then on at least 1 or two of those days—I test my strength levels. Having a high quality protein powder available after my “intense” workouts is integral to helping muscles repair quicker.That said, Jay Robb’s Vanilla Whey has earned its place on my TOP 10 list of Best Proteins.— THE PACKAGING —Jay Robb’s Whey Protein comes in a re-sealable Ziploc container. Easy to store and portable enough to carry around (like to the office or the gym). One of my favorites is the recipes listed on the back of the package helping users create many different delicious smoothies.FYI: I store my bag in the refrigerator for extended freshness.— THE QUALITY —This protein powder has a clean look (meaning the powder is not yellowish.My batch was not clumpy (a good sign of freshness).The powder blended extremely well [using a hand-shaker). I would not recommend putting it in an electric blender as it would further breakdown more of the protein structure and you want to maintain as much of the whole protein as possible in order for it to be effective.If you MUST blend—then by all means add whole fruit to the mixture.— THE INGREDIENTS —Jay Robb Whey Protein powder is rBGH free, non-GMO and contains no gluten, no fat, no cholesterol, no sugar, no aspartame, and no lactose. It does have stevia for those of you who do not like the after taste of it or are hypothyroid.I am detracting a star here primarily because the label mentions, “Whenever ingredients are not available we get our material from other suppliers in the world”. It would be great for c... by Shopping Reviews

[artofpeacelove]

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J

In this time of unprecedented stress and uncertainty, you’d be forgiven for leaning on just about any coping mechanism available to you. My de facto methods include Gossip Girl reruns, sauvignon blanc, and making incredibly ambitious to-do lists that are inevitably replaced each day by Gossip Girl reruns and sauvignon blanc. There are, of course, healthier and more effective ways to manage your mental health right now during social isolation, and if and when you can weave them into your TV-and-wine survival-based tactics, it makes sense to do so.

This year has been, and will continue to be, traumatic in many ways, and the more you can do to mitigate the impact of that stress on your psyche, the better you’ll be in the long run. Since I’m quite obviously no role model in this department, I thought it best we look to mental health professionals for the strategies they’re employing to see them through this crisis without resorting to head-shaving and baseball bat-wielding. Below, find actually productive means for protecting your mental health during social isolation as practiced by professionals.

22 ways to protect your mental health during social isolation, according to psychologists

1. LIMIT OR BLOCK MEDIA AND SOCIAL MEDIA EXPOSURE

“We don’t need to know about every single death that has happened in our state or in the world,” says Los Angeles-based psychologist Sarah Neustadter, PhD. “We can spend this time however we want; it’s a rich opportunity to stay positive in the face of danger and fear.”

2. Create a safe home environment

“Spend extra time making your nest feel special and nurturing,” says Dr. Neustadter. “Customize the ‘vibe’ according to what you like—great music, rearranged furniture, etc.”

3. Become aware of your needs

“Right now, quarantine is forcing us to become extra self-reliant,” says Dr. Neustadter. “So we have to become aware of what our needs are from moment to moment, and then find ways of meeting them.” This includes, she says, the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual. “Do we need connection, intimacy, creativity, inspiration, grounding, relaxation? Do we need to veg out? Do we need to disconnect? The first step is identifying what our needs are and then finding the ways to fulfill them,” says Dr. Neustadter.

4. CREATE A SELF-CARE RITUAL

“My daily self-care routine is journaling then meditation first thing in the morning,” says Dr. Neustadter. “I check in with my mood in the afternoon and will then usually do a quick tune-up meditation, and then perhaps one in the evening as well.”

5. SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP

Even professionals need professional help to maintain good mental health during social isolation. “I have weekly sessions with my therapist as well as my coach,” says Dr. Neustadter. “There are tons of affordable digital options for counseling and coaching, so don’t let money be an obstacle.” Some providers, like NYC-based mental health studio REAL, are offering free services at the moment, too.

6. STAY ACTIVE 

“I’m moving my body daily,” says Dr. Neustadter. “Thirty-minute walks are essential for clearing my mind and staying active.”

7. SIT UP STRAIGHT

“I wear a comfy device called a BackEmbrace with helps with my posture and also elevates my mood,” says Dr. Neustadter. “No slouching on the couch, which can make us feel even more unmotivated and lethargic.”

8. MAINTAIN YOUR NORMAL MORNING ROUTINE 

“I make my bed, I get dressed and put on makeup, and sometimes I go a little extra and doll up with jewelry I don’t usually wear,” says Dr. Neustadter. “This makes me feel more organized and confidant while I move around the house.” You can and should fake your commute, too.

9. Utilize wellness tech

“I use some biohacking devices such as a biomat for relaxation and detox and a form of red-light therapy called Joovv light which helps with immunity, recovery, mood, and sleep quality,” says Dr. Neustadter.

10. DANCE

The benefits of getting your groove on cannot be underestimated, says Dr. Neustadter.

11. BATHE 

Neusadter prefers epsom salt soaks; here, more pro tips on how to make your tub time extra to deal with the extra stress.

12. Wake up your brain

“I keep myself stimulated and inspired by taking classes through Masterclass,” says Dr. Neustadter. Not sure which classes to take? Try one (or two, or three) of these 11 ideas.

13. Employ mental doormen

“I’m extra vigilant about any negative, depressing, catastrophizing, or hopeless thoughts that arise,” says Dr. Neustadter. “As soon as I notice I’m having a stressful or bleak thought, I immediately focus on something else and shift my thoughts to gratitude. I may even do a bit of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) on the negative thought or use The Work of Byron Katie to get underneath these unproductive thoughts and shift my mindset.”

14. ZOOM, SKYPE, FACETIME, ETC.

“I’m doing a lot of the same virtual socializing that I’ve been recommending to others,” chicago based clinical psychologist Aimee Daramus, PsyD.

15. Pay close attention to your feelings 

“When I’m having an uncomfortable emotion, I take some quiet time to let it tell me what the unmet need is,” says Dr. Daramus. “I had a few minutes of really intense frustration , and it came from being shut inside. So, I ordered a weight bench so I could work out more intensely. From that, I discovered that I really love working out at home alone, which I always assumed I wouldn’t like.”

16. Get crafty

“I miss the beauty of shops, buildings, and art, so I’m making more time for sewing and other needlework,” says Dr. Daramus. “Just looking at and touching fabric and yarn is giving me life, and it’s not something I usually have much time for.” Knit yourself a stay-at-home sweater, maybe?

17. DIG INTO SOME DANIELLE STEELE

“I’m reading much lighter, more fun books than usual,” says Dr. Daramus. “Outside of work, I think my brain wants a break.” If you’re looking for a little levity, I highly recommend Samantha Irby’s latest book, Wow, No Thank You. For a more timely yet uplifting read, try Jen Gotch’s The Upside of Down. 

18. Watch reruns of Gossip Girl. No, really.

Turns out, my coping mechanism of choice is actually psychologist approved! “Like a lot of people, I have a long list of shows to binge but for now I need something familiar,” says Dr. Daramus. “I’m going back to some old favorites for a sense of stability.”

19. TOAST TO YOUR HEALTH

This preferred crutch of mine apparently gets a pass, too. “I may or may not be perfecting my chocolate martini game,” says Dr. Daramus. “I definitely did not rebrand it as a ‘vodka cacao detox cleanse.’” (Read: She definitely did.)

20. LEAN INTO THIS ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME BREAK FROM THE HUSTLE 

“I’m letting myself admit that there are things I like about staying home,” says Dr. Daramus. “Society needs me to stay home as much as I can, but it doesn’t need me to hate being at home.”

21. Utilize social media for healthy connection 

“Outside of work, I’m on social media as much as I want because it’s our main connection to others right now,” says Dr. Daramus. Instead of limiting her time online, she’s policing the quality of that time, which means less time on news and more time on friends’ updates.

22. Maintain your regular wellness regimen (plus a few extra cheats) 

“I keep a fairly regular sleep schedule and try to eat nutritiously,” says Dr. Daramus. “Within reason—there might be a little more cake than usual.”

According to something called a “joy strategist,” these activities can spark joy even in dark times. Plus, try these affirmations for calmness in anything-but-calm times.

from Good Advice – Well+Good https://ift.tt/2RrmThp via IFTTT

[anachef]

Review: New Menu Items And Two NEW Craft Cocktails from Raglan Road at Disney Springs!

While there’s never any shortage of new eats and treats popping up throughout Walt Disney World, we always love to revisit our favorite places to experience old classics and new menu additions.

Joycean Club

On our latest visit to Raglan Road Irish Pub at Disney Springs, we tried one starter, two new craft cocktails (which you definitely need to know about!), two sandwiches, and two entrees. Let’s dive in!

We started with the Chunky Munk: beer-battered monkfish with zucchini chips and chunky tartar sauce. This starter is available for both lunch and dinner.

Chunky Munk

This is a fun spin on fish and chips. The beer batter breading is flavorful and the zucchini chips offer a new take on traditional potato fries with slightly fewer calories. But don’t be fooled — fewer calories isn’t the main draw for these. They’re delicious and MAYBE even a way to get your kiddos to eat more green veggies…?

Bangin’ Bangers and Mighty Mash is comfort food at its finest! Guinness and onion bangers are served over mashed potatoes and topped with traditional Irish onion gravy. Available for lunch and dinner.

This one’s going on our best dishes to eat in Disney World list, for sure! It’s flavorful, savory, and salty, and the mashed potatoes are delicious. Raglan Road has replaced the beef stew that used be part of this dish with traditional onion gravy, and it makes all the difference. That concentrated flavor in the gravy truly elevates this dish.

Bangin’ Bangers and Mighty Mash

The Pork Blah Blaa is anything but blah. This dish is named for the blaa bun. Immigrants from France initially called the bread blanc, which referred to the flour dusted on top. Blaa developed from there.

Pork Blah Blaa

Porchetta, Wild About Celtic chutney, caramelized onions, and crispy cracklings come nestled on a blah bun with skinny chips on the side.

Pork Blah Blaa

The sandwich components were good, but the crackling was wrapped around the pork (which was essentially a roulade) and ended up very hard, thick, and brittle. I love the concept of this one (cracklings are trendy and super yummy, so the more the better), but the execution wasn’t ideal.

Pork Blah Blaa

A namesake of both Irish poet James Joyce and the third-generation family farm that supplies the chicken for this sandwich, the cleverly-titled Joycean Club was a must-try.

Joycean Club

The sandwich features Joyce Farms chicken, lettuce, fried tomato, pork belly, avocado, and egg mayonnaise on toasted sourdough.

Joycean Club

This one was hearty and HUGE. Lots of flavor from the pork belly gave it an edge.

The Joycean Club is served with a side of crispy potato chips. Available for lunch.

Joycean Club

The perfect autumn dish, Raglan Risotto includes butternut squash risotto, shiitake mushrooms, parmesan, peas, micro greens, and parmesan crisps. Risottos from Raglan Road tend to be amazing, and this one was an excellent version. This seasonal beauty is available for lunch and dinner.

Butternut Squash Raglan Risotto

When it comes to Raglan Road‘s cocktails, we have some exciting news: Dingle Gin and Vodka have just arrived! You won’t find these brand-new, authentically-Irish spirits anywhere else in the American market yet. The Dingle Distillery is located in Dingle, County Kerry, Ireland. They specialize in small batches of artisanal Irish whiskey, gin, and vodka.

The Raglan Road Espresso Martini consists of Dingle Vodka, Banana Liqueur, Dark Creme de Cacao, and Rich Espresso. It was just what you’d hope — strong and complex. This one is ideal for iced coffee fans.

Raglan Road Espresso Martini

The second new cocktail is The Pride of the Peninsula. Made with Dingle Gin, fresh lime, and Fevertree Elderflower Tonic and garnished with fresh cucumber and mint. A unique spin on a gin and tonic, it’s perfect for anyone who loves the classic cocktail with a twist. Also, it’s giant. Did you notice?

The Pride of the Peninsula

Overall

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — Raglan doesn’t disappoint. And in fact it lands on my ten favorite Disney World restaurants list (watch the video below!), so I consider it destination dining for sure.

Don’t forget also that Raglan Road hosts a Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Want to know more? Check out our Raglan Road Brunch review and our Raglan Road Lunch review!

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What’s your go-to order at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant? Let us know in the comments!

Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited to review this restaurant. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably.��You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ

Related posts:

Review: Lunch at Raglan Road in Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs

New Eats! at Raglan Road in Disney Springs

The Great Irish Hooley Returns to Raglan Road for Labor Day Weekend!

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[thechocolategarage]

All the way from Uganda... update on Garage!

June 29, 2018

Currently open Saturdays only from 9 am - 1pm. Hoping we can save The Chocolate Garage for the cost of a couple lattes a month... or about the monthly cost of an Amazon Prime membership!

Happy Friday everyone! First, thank you to all those who have signed up to donate monthly to The Chocolate Garage, to those who can contribute $5 a month, or those who opted $10, $20 or $50, and to our wonderful supporter of local small business who decided to change their donation from $20 to $200, I am grateful and moved to see so many of you (78 to be exact) put in your dollar vote for supporting local business and local community building. We are closer to our goal, being at just under $1400/month currently. For those of you who missed last week's newsletter with more details on why we are offering this and what we need the money for, you can read last week's newsletter here. You will see the next time you come to The Chocolate Garage that we have started adding the names of our supporting patrons, onto The Chocolate Garage wall. You are welcome to stay anonymous, or to add your name to the wall of supporters (and take a selfie next to your name!). We also have a new page that lists our current patrons on our website, and has a direct link for folks to become patronsas well. (Note: we do reach out to all donors and get explicit permission to write your name on our wall and website, before adding you, this also means a small delay after you donate, before you will find your name listed, feel free to add in the notes that you are ok with your name, or some version of your name, being added.) If we can hit our goal, we will stay open. And if we exceed our goal, we can start thinking about how we can use the extra funds to have more events, or bring in more makers, or use the funds in other ways to better serve our community: holiday hours, extra pick up times during the week, reduced shipping costs? Latitude Trade Company: Straight from Uganda! A couple of months ago, Jeff Steinberg reached out to come and visit The Chocolate Garage, all I knew was that he was working with cacao farmers in Uganda, trying to improve the post harvest process, so that farmers in Uganda could also partake in the craft chocolate market. If you as a cacao farmer are able to get the quality of your cacao up to meet the craft chocolate requirements, what this means for a farmer is doubling or tripling the price your cacao fetches. So it is a powerful motivator and great tool for cacao farmers to really improve their situations. When Jeff and I met, my feeling was that he was one of those really serious ones, dedicated to creating change, having worked in many different countries, usually with a focus on how folks can empower themselves. He started up a business in Uganda (Latitude Trade Company) and started working on getting high quality cacao out of Uganda, to buyers who will pay a premium. Before he knew it, he started playing around with making chocolate, and had brought a sample to share. As I have said before, the vast majority of new bars I taste have significant flaws, either texture, or often times problems with the cacao itself. Jeff had made a 70% two ingredient bar (cacao and sugar) and it was both a lovely texture and also had deep chocolatey fudgey notes, with some accents of fruit. I was blown away, and told him that even though we were planning to close very soon (I thought back then right after selling all the Momotombo, how quickly things change!) I would LOVE to bring in these bars. The reason I started The Chocolate Garage and was moved to build something that could contribute to changing the traditional, ugly ways in commodity cacao trade. Mott Green (Grenada Chocolate Company) was my first and deepest inspiration, of someone who broke the rules, refused to accept the status quo and built a company and a movement out of sheer stubbornness, willpower and a beautiful vision. Years after starting The Chocolate Garage, when I finally met him and told him about this idea that I called "Happy Chocolate", he laughed and told me that I had to come visit their factory, that it was the happiest chocolate factory around. I think that one of the most powerful models for changing the industry is to make finished chocolate in the countries that produce the cacao. Ideally I think it would be great to see local companies in Uganda, Cote d'Ivoire, Guatemala and Peru all making chocolate for the local market, but I think there is also room for making bars for export too... So, I am extra excited that Jeff has started making chocolate too, his packaging is elegant while humble, he is using the same company name he uses for his trade business, and he is just getting started, but I am delighted to be able to bring this chocolate to The Chocolate Garage! Please come by tomorrow to taste, or if you want to get this bar and are far away, feel free to order it online. I hope that our "Save The Chocolate Garage" efforts are fruitful, and we can stay open to bring more bars like this to you, and bring small makers doing really good work into the limelight. Jeff added a little note on the bar wrapper in his efforts to support our "Save The Chocolate Garage" efforts, you can check it out tomorrow in person. :) Saturday Tasting Menu Latitude Trade Company 70% Semuliki Forest 2017 Harvest Grenada Chocolate Company 60% Baianí 70% with Orange Zest Baianí 57% dark milk Yes! We will be tasting four bars all made in their respective countries using their own countries cacao. Baianí goes one step further in that they also grow, harvest, ferment and dry their own cacao before then turning it into chocolate. I am away at a meditation retreat this whole week, (I wrote most of this before going offline!), so I won't see you tomorrow, but Katie and Claire will be there to answer any questions and make sure you walk away with all the best Happy Chocolate bars that you want. Warm, chocolatey wishes! Sunita

Above L to R, Juliana of Baianí, Arcelia of Mission Chocolate, and Tuta in Vale Potumuju. This is their phenomenal drying room, right next to their fermentary. What a gorgeous set up!

Here is the beginning of the list of patrons being added to the wall at The Chocolate Garage. Thank you again to all those who have become patrons!

[easyweight101]

Andre Lorent Eye Cream Review (UPDATED 2017): Don’t Buy Before You Read This!

Andre Lorent Eye Cream is a product designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the eye. This product claims to firm loose and sagging skin and provides moisture while minimizing crow’s feet, laugh lines and the like.

Andre Lorent Eye Cream is made with a patented ingredient known as SeptiLift, as well as aloe, jojoba oil, and resveratrol. The cream is free from parabens, SLS, and petroleum products and may be used both morning and night.

Kremovage best provides the repair consumers are looking for when they purchase an eye cream. This product is made with a blend of botanical extracts, rich in antioxidants, along with ocean-based retinol, peptides, and plant-based oils that hydrate and repair. Click here to read more about using Kremovage to tackle unwanted age spots, crow’s feet, and loose skin.

Do You Know the Best Eye Creams of 2017 ?

Andre Lorent Eye Cream Ingredients and Side Effects

Andre Lorent Eye Cream has done us all a favor and has included the full list of ingredients on both the official website, as well as on third-party channels like Amazon, Walmart and more. Here is a look at some of the more active components used to make this product:

SeptiLift Aloe Vera Juice Shea Butter Resveratrol Jojoba Oil

SepiLift: SepiLift is a patented plant-based oil used to correct wrinkles and fine lines by stimulating collagen production and protecting skin from incoming free radical damage.

Resveratrol: Resveratrol is a natural antioxidant that can be found in a number of foods such as red wine, cacao beans, berries, and peanuts. This ingredient is antimicrobial and may help protect the skin against UV radiation. Additionally, resveratrol may help repair damage caused by aging and environmental stressors.

Shea Butter: A highly moisturizing ingredient, shea butter is often used to repair dry or damaged skin, as well as facilitate wound healing.

Aloe Vera Juice: Aloe vera juice is often used for its anti-inflammatory effects. It may help treat acne, promote new cell growth and speed wound healing.

Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. It works to control acne and provide moisture, without clogging pores.

Click here for a look at our favorite eye creams — from the moisturizing to the hyper-restorative.

Andre Lorent Eye Cream Quality of Ingredients

Andre Lorent Eye Cream is made from a number of plant-based ingredients shown to affect wrinkles. With soothing plant oils, this product is likely a good solution for people with sensitive skin, or for those looking for a product that skips the chemical additives in favor of something more natural.

We don’t know all that much about SepiLift, though the fact that its patented gives it some credibility — at least as far as consumer safety is concerned.

We like that this formula is rich in antioxidants — it certainly is full of skin-friendly nutrients that at a minimum, give the skin some serious benefits. We do wish that there were a few more elements present in the blend, say retinol or peptides, but it looks good, nonetheless.

Lift and firm with these top-rated eye creams. Click to view our picks.

EDITOR’S TIP: Combine this product with a proven eye cream such as Kremovage for better results.

The Price and Quality of Andre Lorent Eye Cream

Ander Lorent Eye Cream is featured on the Andre Lorent website but is currently out of stock. Same goes for Amazon. We’re not sure of the dearth of product is temporary or if this item has been discontinued, but there’s no mention on the official web page.

That said, there’s evidence of some deep discounting, which could be a signal that this product will no longer be sold when stock runs out.

Andre Lorent lists the original price at $79.95 for a jar containing 0.5 ounces of the cream. The product was reduced down to $19.95, while stores like Walmart and eBay offer this item for as low as $12.95 for the same size unit.

While $12.95, or even $19.95, sounds like a great deal for an eye cream made from plant-based ingredients, we’re not sure seeing this steep price reduction gives a good impression of the product — but this item does have a number of positive reviews associated with its use.

Learn more about protecting your eyes against sun damage — here’s a look at our favorite options.

Business of Andre Lorent Eye Cream

Andre Lorent Eye Cream is made by the skin care company, Andre Lorent. Here’s a little background information about this business:

Phone: 888-675-9880

Email: support@andrelorent.com

Andre Lorent started her vegan makeup line after she and her husband took a trip to St. Barths. Inspired by the culture and natural beauty of the island, Lorent created a line dedicated to plant-based antiaging, backed by science.

The official website feels a little crowded. It’s loaded with social media posts and testimonials, walls of text and tons of claims—but they do do a good job conveying transparency with the ingredients, and Lorent herself is a felt presence on the site.

Overall, the language used to promote the products feels a little overblown—the site mentions a Broadway actress loves this eye cream but doesn’t feature a testimonial or endorsement from said star.

Customer Opinions of Andre Lorent Eye Cream

Andre Lorent Eye Cream has a number of positive reviews posted on their site—as well as Instagram selfies taken with the product and other forms of engagement. We found several reviews posted on Amazon, as well. Here are some of the comments we found during our research into this product:

“I purchased this product alongside the face cream, I’ve found they work well together to soften wrinkles. I like that this product is very soothing—it didn’t activate my rosacea and even calmed the redness.”

“Seeing some good results on my 60-year-old face. It works gradually with daily use to reduce wrinkles and has a nice cooling effect on the skin.”

“I don’t like this cream. It has an odd smell, like rancid oil. I called the company and they said the odor is from resveratrol and they offered a free product. Great customer service, but I don’t love the cream.”

“So far so good. I’ve only been using this product for a few days, but have seen some improvements. It had a nice texture and really hydrates the skin. We’ll have to see how it works on wrinkles for the long term.”

Most of the reviews for this eye cream were positive. The combination of resveratrol and jojoba oil, along with the other components seem to have brought some meaningful results to people looking to combat wrinkles around the eyes.

We didn’t see any mention of whether or not this eye cream is an effective tool for fighting dark circles and puffiness, and there were a few complaints about the color and the smell.

With vegan products, sometimes people find the natural color and lack of preservatives a bit unattractive — but most consumers — at least those interested in this brand — happily trade aesthetics for the peace of mind that comes with an all-natural product.

That said, most people were happy. Andre Lorent Eye Cream seems like it could be a good product for people that want something eco-friendly and soothing for sensitive or dry skin.

Get the insider look at what makes the best eye creams tick — our favorite ingredients after the jump.

Conclusion – Does Andre Lorent Eye Cream Work?

Andre Lorent Eye Cream has a pretty solid following of loyal consumers. Most of the feedback suggests that this is a high-quality product, offered at a reasonable price.

Some of the comments, however, suggested that this eye cream doesn’t have much of a differentiating factor when compared to similar creams, but most consumers appreciated the relatively clean ingredient list and the ability to reduce wrinkles.

The problem with Andre Lorent Eye Cream is, it’s not clear if consumers will be able to find this product for long. The website doesn’t say if or when it will be back, just that the cream is out of stock at this time. Amazon says the same thing and Walmart has discounted the cream deeply—suggesting they may be making room for other products.

Should this eye cream be coming back in stock, it may be worthwhile for consumers—but the question remains—how will it be priced moving forward? There’s not much in the blend that warrants an $80 price tag, but we’d be surprised if the price dropped back down to under $20.

We’re not sure what most of the reviewers paid for this item, but it would be interesting to know whether the positive reviews came from being pleasantly surprised from a low-cost product, or if it was truly worth the higher price.

Kremovage is the best choice in eye cream, according to our team of reviewers. This product gives users the lift and radiance they’re looking for in an anti-aging solution through a collection of potent elements such as Matrixyl 3000, ocean-based retinol, hyaluronic acid, fruit extracts and more bring antioxidants, moisture and repair to the eye area.

Kremovage was created for users of all ages and a range of skin types after a for a potent, yet gentle solution to wrinkles, dark circles and sagging under eye skin. Click here for the full ingredient list, along with the key benefits of using Kremovage.

from Easy Weight Loss 101 http://ift.tt/2ymYSiA via The Best Weight Loss Diet In The World

[vancatts741851-blog]

How Innovation Is actually Bending Your Memory.

Container flask includes 92% water as well as the remaining is actually only fiber, that makes that a simply edible meals. Great, first class meals is the best BUT there are some dogs that could not handle this and do better on the cheap unhealthy food. No necessity for dinner tonight so our experts retired to the cabin to loosen up off such a hectic journey time. Our company thus strolled to dinner at our aged preference, Coconuts, instead of tendering over as our team had intended. They are complicated to steer and also for that reason unsafe for usage on Southeastern Outings river floats. Robust Stout functions layers of rich malt tastes along with rich roasty caramel notes from coffee cacao and dried out fruit for a flavorful take on the typical dark ale. After the second side has been actually cooking for regarding 4 mins, go forward and include the fresh tomatoes that you have actually cut up. Next off, add the fresh basil that you have actually diced in to bows, the chilly butter, the minced garlic, and also you are going to perhaps intend to add some even more kosher sodium as well as black pepper to season the dressing. But for academics like me-- a journalist coming from abroad-- the supper is linked to an organization that permits those of us on the outside in order to get a peek from just what that media relationship is like as well as utilize this to update our occupations.

Two traits our experts attempted today for dinner (and also the majority of our company loved): Spicy Flash Flowerpot Carrot Soup (certainly not too zesty as well as offered over rice) and also Morning meal Enchiladas with Ranchero Dressing (constructed in the early morning, inhibited the fridge, then popped in the stove at dinner time-I love when I may do that!). From a Paris supper gathering along with the young forerunners from Belgium and also Luxembourg, to a noticeable Twitter bromance along with Italy's ex-premier Matteo Renzi, Macron has actually currently created a group of likeminded peers, unafraid to promote closer EU combination at a time when electors are actually being actually attracted by the hard right and also young forerunners offer themselves as fresh faces, free of 20th-century luggage of left-right class battle.

Found this on Pinterest (as well as failed to also need to Google you to find the ideal LINK!) as well as created this for supper this evening. Macron covered his plans for Europe at a private dinner party in March at the property of a French TELEVISION famous person, attended through Belgium's 41-year-old Prime Minister Charles Michel as well as Luxembourg's Head of state Xavier Bettel, 44.

Lose consciousness biscuits along with pleasant notes on slips up used the Healthy-Happy-Blog.Info Confetti Background design template complying with a supper gathering, birthday function or holiday season gathering. I have actually also discovered on lots of celebrations after walking out to dinner if I ate of meat, veggies and a draft beer that I might eat a desert and not possess a lot influence, like a BG og 140 to 150 2 hrs after consuming.

I obtain the positive, daily, feeling from creation as well as perks coming from the job of this particular ranch - yet the entire point from Cold weather Horn Farm is actually to discuss this. I cannot say to if I gone on the side from lighting a conflagration with my writing career or smoldering to ash. Thus while our books permit readers to leave coming from truth in to an area that is actually both secure as well as dark, our company can not extend and also contort the worlds we generate thus far that there is internal harshness. Americans aren't happy to spend a higher portion from their throw away revenue on food when that is actually dirt cheap to import out-of-season crops from various other nations, as well as this could be near difficult for neighborhood farmers to take on these costs.

[superfitbabe]

Happy Saturday evening, everybody! I hope you’re all well. This is a different kind of post, since I will be posting one of my first official “photo food diary” entries!

This sort of serves as a visual update on how I’ve been doing with my diet, how I’ve been feeling eating this way, and how my schedule works. My normal schedule only permits me to have two main meals with a bunch of snacks generally after my dinner. I kind of follow an accidentally “intermittent fasting” regimen since my first course starts bright and early in the morning, with my rest of courses carrying on until the early evening. I still nourish myself adequately and intuitively for my own personal needs–lots of protein, carbs, fat, mostly wholesome food balanced with some treats here and there. Now it may seem like a ton of food or not enough food to some, but I’ve been feeling wonderfully eating this way for my goals. It’s not to say this method works for everyone else. We’re all different, so we shouldn’t abide by others’ ways of dieting religiously!

Also, how much value does nutritional information provide? I know that most people are relatively curious as to how many calories they should be eating when making healthier choices, when trying to lose weight, gain weight, burn fat, or whatever, right? To be clear, I stopped tracking two years ago after leaving an unhealthy relationship with my calorie counter. However, once I was instructed to gain weight, I wasn’t entirely aware of how I could do so when I already felt so full and satisfied with my diet back then. Hence, I started using MyFitnessPal to get a glimpse of what my targets should be to make sure I hit them all, since I tend to overestimate my food intake. This will be the first time I include my nutritional profile for this day, and if it gets enough positive feedback, I may continue including them in my food diary entries and even some recipes I create! However, I still abide by my intuition and stick to plant-based foods, whether in wholesome form or a processed form (because peanut butter, right?).

Anyways, that’s that with my diet update and reflection with everything, so let’s get onto the food, shall we?

I started off the morning by jumping out of bed and completing half of my workout before my first course in the morning, which was a Food Science class where we went over our previous two exams. I stopped by my college gym after class to complete the weight training half of my workout, as well as three to five minutes skipping with a jump rope. I felt amazing afterwards, but I was starving like crazy!

Meal 1: starting around 11 AM, I put together a giant salad takeaway of spinach, balsamic-marinated tofu, chickpeas, two vegan dogs that I tried for the first time (I actually enjoyed them; they were super flavorful on their own! They remind me strongly of the LightLife veggie dogs!), roasted cauliflower, and half of my homemade broiled butternut squash, all with a soup cup of PlantFusion vegan cookies n’ creme protein frosting, and the rest of my butternut squash a nearly empty Peanut Butter & Company White Chocolate Wonderful peanut butter jar! This should be of no surprise, but I’ve been obsessed with butternut squash and peanut butter! Running out of peanut butter is a blessing in disguise since I can use the jars to store anything I’d like!

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Meal 2 (sort of): The Food Science club got to sample a really innovative, sustainable, very healthy and allergen-friendly product, which was a Pulp Pantry bag of beef red velvet cacao granola made from organic juice pulp–can you believe it?! Some of the members thought it tasted woody, but I actually really adored the strong cacao flavor and the crunchiness. There’s almost little to no sweetness, which I actually enjoy because it tastes much lighter and healthier than most store-bought granola. Next time I see this in store, I’m totally buying it, even if I have ten bags of granola at home!

After sampling the delicious granola, I completed my lab practical for the first part of my Food Science final exam! My group and I whipped up poached salmon in a curry coconut milk broth, creamy polenta, ginger-glazed carrots, and pita bread. I was completely full from my brunch earlier in the day that I ended up not eating anything, which was A-OK given that the only vegan item on the menu was the pita bread.

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However, I did try the pita bread for the past weeks before my professor created the final exam menu from the lab manual’s recipes, and it’s DAMN delicious pita bread.

Meal 3: Cleaning out a few fridge items, I put together a plate of two Amy’s Kitchen American veggie patties with garlic and onion powder and an oil-free stir-fry that consisted of two boxes of white mushrooms and Beyond Meat vegan feisty beef crumbles mixed in turmeric and pepper! I definitely have to make this again–looks kind of like a tofu scramble with two breakfast sausages actually, but it’s absolutely incredible!

Meal 4: Lately I’ve been addicted to plain popcorn, so I had a serving of some Sinfully Thin smoky red pepper popcorn! I used to sprinkle heaps of turmeric on my popcorn but the spice would stick to my hands so stubbornly that my fingernails on my left-hand looked golden. Yeah, I couldn’t deal with that so I stopped…but it’s still good without turmeric!

Meal 5: There’s nothing better than satiating a sweet tooth with a couple doses of dessert-flavored peanut butter, am I right or am I right? Tonight I had a tablespoon each of the Peanut Butter and Company’s dark chocolate dreams flavor and the cinnamon raisin swirl flavor! I actually finished most of the cinnamon raisin swirl jar so there’s only a serving left. Guess who had more butternut squash in the empty cinnamon raisin swirl jar the next day?

Meal 6: This week calls for cleaning out as many pantry items as I can, which is why I’ve been eating a bit more processed (all vegan) food as of now! I ended the night with a bag of far out fajita Hippeas, which I haven’t had in a long time! Never knew why–they taste like light and airy Cheetos, but even better!

NUTRITION PROFILE OF THE DAY (based on MyFitnessPal)

Calories: 2,096

Total fat: 72 grams

Saturated: 9 grams

Carbohydrates: 230 grams

Fiber: 62 grams

Protein: 166 grams

*I also exceeded my daily requirements of fiber, protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Diet Update: What I Ate on My Last Day of Classes as a First Year in Food Science Happy Saturday evening, everybody! I hope you're all well. This is a different kind of post, since I will be posting one of my first official "photo food diary" entries!

[supplementhoundblog]

10 Best Cacao Nibs Products – Reviewed & Ranked for 2017

Last Updated: Tuesday, April 25, 2017

If you’re looking for the best cacao nibs products to buy this year, then you’ve come to the right place. 

You can also get more info by jumping to our Cacao Nibs Products Guide.

Top 10 Cacao Nibs Products

#1 Viva Labs Raw Cacao Nibs More Info #2 Navitas Naturals Organic Raw Cacao Nibs More Info #3 Healthworks Certified Organic Raw Cacao Nibs More Info #4 Terrasoul Superfoods Raw Organic Cacao Nibs More Info #5 TruVibe 100% Organic Raw Cacao Nibs More Info #6 Joyfuel Raw Organic Cacao Nibs More Info #7 Divine Organics Raw Cacao Nibs More Info #8 Imlak’esh Organics Cacao Nibs More Info #9 Ojio Raw Organic Cacao Nibs More Info #10 Kazu Organic Cacao Nibs More Info

Cacao Nibs Products Guide

Cacao nibs are not to be confused with cocoa. Cacao, or Theobroma cacao, is the real deal when it comes to chocolate. Raw cacao is the base for which chocolate products are made. It is considered a superfood containing healthful phytonutrients and flavanoids. Cacao nibs are a terrific addition to your diet if you want to provide some extra nutrition. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits and how to use cacao.

What Are Cacao Nibs?

Cacao was first introduced as a cultivated food in the ancient Mexican Olmec civilization, dating back approximately 3,000 years. Cacao was often used to make a beverage that was served at wedding ceremonies and other celebrations. It was said to be the food of the gods.

The Theobroma Cacao tree produces fruit known as cacao pods. Each pod contains seeds or beans that can be extracted to make a butter that is then used to make chocolate, when mixed with sugar, and to make creams that are used topically. Cacao nibs are the beans that have been separated from their husks and broken or chopped up into smaller pieces. The nibs are the purest form of what we know as chocolate. However, these are bitter, not sweet.

Benefits of Cacao Nibs

Cacao has numerous health benefits. Ancient civilizations understood this and made beverages using cacao to improve athletic performance, mental awareness, and feelings of pleasure. Here are some of the known benefits.

Mood Stabilizer

Cacao stimulates the brain to release neurotransmitters that signal the rest of the body how to behave. This stimulation and neurotransmitter release is what affects our mood and emotional stability.

When eaten, cacao produces the chemical phenylethylamine (PEA), which is similar to adrenalin. This can help you feel good and have better focus and alertness. PEA is necessary to keep depression in check. It is believed that PEA may be responsible for feelings of euphoria.

Supports Muscles and Nerves

Cacao nibs are an amazing source of magnesium. 100 grams of cacao contains roughly 250 mg of magnesium. Magnesium is very important for your muscles to function optimally, including your heart muscle. Magnesium is also critical for your nervous system. According to a study in the Journal of Psychology, magnesium may be one of the keys to controlling nerve pain. This is a critical mineral for those with peripheral neuropathy associated with diabetes.

Cardiovascular Health

The antioxidants found in cacao are what fight the disease causing and premature aging properties of damaging free radicals. Additionally, cacao has been shown to reduce blood pressure and the related risks of coronary heart disease and strokes. According to Harvard Medical School, the flavanoids in cacao can improve cholesterol levels, blood clotting, coronary artery function, and insulin sensitivity.

Weight Loss

What a nice thought, eating chocolate to lose weight. Pure cacao nibs are very high in dietary fiber. One ounce of raw cacao has 9 grams of fiber. Dietary fiber is needed for bowel health and regularity. When trying to lose weight it is imperative that the bowels are functioning optimally. Also, fiber provides a feeling of fullness which may help with caloric intake.

Control Anemia and Fight Fatigue

Raw cacao provides 6% of the RDA of iron. Iron helps to control anemia by aiding your body in producing red blood cells. It is recommended that cacao be taken with foods that are high in vitamin C to enhance absorption of the iron. An iron deficiency results in fatigue and can lead to anemia.

Natural Aphrodisiac

It is a known fact that chocolate is an aphrodisiac. That is why it is so popular as a Valentine’s Day gift. However, commercial chocolate may have very little of the benefits of pure cacao. The chemicals present in raw cacao are what stimulate the senses and heighten feelings of arousal. The anandamide and phenylethylamine chemical compounds in cacao stimulate the brain to release dopamine, one of the feel good neurotransmitters.

Are There Any Side Effects?

As with any food or nutritional supplement, there are different schools of thought as to the effectiveness and safety of a specific product. Some experts claim there are harmful side effects of consuming cacao nibs, while others claim the benefits outweigh any potential side effects. Here are some of the reported side effects. Keep in mind that these are based on consuming very high amounts of cacao.

Cacao is relatively high in calories and fat. It should be eaten in small amounts for this reason.

Raw cacao is stimulating, just like caffeinated coffee. This can cause your heart to race, your kidneys to be aggravated, and your bowels to work a little harder if too much is consumed.

Some feel cacao has the potential to be highly addictive. This may be due to the adrenal stimulation and the neurotransmitter releasing action that is accompanied by feelings of euphoria.

In extremely high doses, cacao may cause anxiety, hallucinations, and nightmares. This might be due to the stimulating effects and possible sleep disturbances if consumed at night.

Long-term consumption of raw cacao may lead to episodes of paranoia. This has been reported but there are no in-depth studies to back up the reports.

Daily intake of cacao may cause a toxic buildup in the bloodstream and digestive organs. This is possible with overconsumption of several foods and supplements.

How to Take Cacao Nibs

Cacao nibs are consumed as a food not as a supplement. Cacao can be found raw in either nib form or powdered. Cacao nibs are sometimes toasted to reduce some of the bitter flavor. At its purest, cacao is consumed in raw nib form. There is a bit of a debate over whether “raw” cacao is actually 100% raw.

The nibs have a crunchy texture with a slightly bitter taste and hints of chocolate. They are the purest form of chocolate without any of the sweetness that you would find in something like chocolate chips. You might find the taste takes some getting used to. If you already love super dark chocolate you will probably enjoy the nibs.

The best way to consume and enjoy cacao nibs is to add them to your favorite dishes. They play well with both sweet and savory ingredients.

Sweet Suggestions

Bake the nibs in cookies

Toast them in with a batch of homemade granola

Sprinkle nibs on your morning oats

Add to yogurt

Use them in smoothies

Savory Suggestions

Eat nibs raw as a snack

Stir a spoonful into hot coffee

Grind them and use as a crust on game meats

Add to salads for a little crunch

Cook them into spiced dishes like curries and tagines

What to Look for in a Good Cacao Nib Product

Cacao nibs are not as easy to find as you would think. They just haven’t become a popular item on grocery store shelves yet. They are well stocked in health and natural food stores and available at online retailers. The nibs are used by some of the best chefs in culinary preparations, sometimes being sourced directly for the producers in Central and South America.

When looking for a good cacao nib product try to find one that is non-GMO, organically grown, and sustainably harvested. The ingredient list should be limited to “raw cacao nibs”. There shouldn’t be any artificial additives or preservatives.

The Wrap Up

Cacao is chocolate in its purest form. It is high in antioxidants, minerals, dietary fiber, and stimulating chemical compounds. Cacao nibs can help with mood, muscle and nerve function, heart health, weight loss, fatigue, and pleasure. Unlike cocoa, cacao is raw, or very lightly heated, and does not contain additives or sugars. It is a healthier way to consume chocolate.

The post 10 Best Cacao Nibs Products – Reviewed & Ranked for 2017 appeared first on Supplement Hound - Supplement Reviews for 2016.

from Supplement Hound – Supplement Reviews for 2016 http://supplementhound.com/best-cacao-nibs-products/