Can Cacao Improve Your Workout?
This week Sacred took a trip to Body Fit Training (BFT) to find out how cacao could improve workouts and deliver this potent superfood to the community.
Studies show that cacao is an effective way to boost energy levels before training, as well as increasing motivation prior to hitting the gym. Theobromine, which you can learn more about here, energises the body by increasing blood flow to the brain and heart. Because it doesn’t actually cross the blood-brain barrier, it is non-addictive and doesn’t cause a huge crash in energy hours later.
The flavonoid reported most beneficial for workouts is called epicatechin. Here’s why it’s worth adding a spoonful of raw cacao into your preworkout!
- Enhances muscle growth and strength
- Increases nitric oxide production for improved blood flow and endurance
- Regulates blood sugar levels
- Stimulates protein synthesis
- Lowers cholesterol levels
- High in antioxidants
- Improves brain and heart health
Epicatechin allows oxygen and nutrients to reach muscle cells more effectively whilst taking care of the removal of toxins. This means muscles buffer fatigue better, improving overall performance.
Due to its high magnesium content, cacao also improves muscle recovery. It relaxes muscles to prevent any cramping or spasming, as well as replenishing red blood cells which provide oxygen to the rest of the body. Research reveals that magnesium can improve exercise performance by increasing strength, power, flexion and rotation.
Adding Sacred Earth to a protein shaker with 200ml milk (we love oat!) is an easy way to boost your workout and improve recovery. Also check out our latest recipe, Hemp Cacao Protein Bars!
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