The first thing that comes to mind of most people on Valentines’ Day is “chocolate”?
What makes chocolate so special for Valentine’s Day is its aphrodisiac properties. However, we’re not interested in that benefits. But that does not mean, our children cannot participate in this celebration of love.
Besides being an aphrodisiac, chocolate, or more accurately cacao, is actually a superfood with tons of health benefits.
Since our blog is all about ADHD and natural strategies to boost brain function, we want to know how chocolate or cacao benefits the ADHD brain.
Cacao makes you happier by stimulating the brain to release happy brain chemicals. When you eat cacao, the body produces a natural, adrenal-related chemical called phenylethylamine (PEA). It usually occurs when you feel joy or in love, causing your pulse to speed up. Think of the first time you met your baby (your newborn baby), or the love of your life, or your pet. PEA also allows for more focus and awareness.
Why use CBD when you can eat chocolate…Cacao contains anandamide, which is Sanskrit for divine joy, also known as the “bliss molecule.” Anandamide binds to cannabinoid receptors and mimics the effects of THC — the “illegal” psychoactive molecule in cannabis.
Cocoa also contains more phenolic antioxidants than most foods. Flavonoids such as catechin, epicatechin, and procyanidins help protect nerves from injury and inflammation and have beneficial effects on satiety, cognitive function, and mood.
Do you need more reason to try this healthy and delish chocolate recipe that won’t leave you feeling guilty or your child jumping up and down for hours?
Serves 4
Save RecipeIngredients
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 cups coconut cream
- 3 tbsp cacao powder
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl and use a hand mixer to beat everything.
- Whip it together until stiff peaks form.
- Divide it between 4 ramekins and top with coconut cream, berries, nuts or vegan chocolate shavings.
Bon appetit.
The biggest frustration with following a special diet is not knowing what is okay to eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Which food is allowed? Which food is not allowed? What can I put together with the allowed food?
That’s why I’ve put together over 50 quick and simple ADHD-friendly recipes that kids love. All the recipes follow the Eat to Focus Protocol, so they’re all dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, egg-free, nut-free and legume-free to reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
You can find all these delicious recipes in the Eat to Focus ADHD Diet eCookbook. Click this link to get your copy.
Anna
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