How many of us are convinced that we need a coffee boost to start our day and even more to keep us going? The noradrenaline effects of a cup of coffee can provide a quick energy boost, but it is often followed by a “crash” when the noradrenaline in the brain is depleted. That doesn’t even include the effects of sugars and creamers some use to up the flavor. There is a healthier alternative you may want to try.
Spearmint extract mixed with cocoa powder and water is an elixir that can provide that mental pick me up and include added health benefits with lower levels of caffeine that won’t fray your nerves and keep you up at night.
Cocoa powder enhances vascular blood flow in the brain increasing oxygenation to regions that keep you focused and alert. Low levels of naturally occurring caffeine and bio-actives in cocoa called theobromine and polyphenols have been shown to improve cognitive performance and provide added health benefits including improvements with blood pressure, cholesterol levels, constipation, diabetes, bronchial asthma, skin disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Cocoa contains iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, copper and manganese, selenium, potassium, and zinc, monounsaturated fats like oleic acid and saturated fats, stearic acid and palmitic acid that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant health benefits. Flavonoid-rich cocoa has a higher antioxidant levels than black tea, green tea and red wine that help to neutralize the oxygen-based free radicals.
Spearmint contains phenolic compounds like Rosmarinus acid and acetylcholinesterase that increases the memory-associated neurotransmitter acetylcholine and help to protect brain cells from oxidative damage. Small amounts of spearmint can improve digestion, boost respiratory health, optimize hormonal levels, relieve stress, increase circulation, maximize heart health, and strengthen the immune system. It also contains decent levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, riboflavin, and thiamin.
Doesn’t that sound better than a “coffee regular” loaded with sugar and cream? If you want to cut back on caffeine consumption and still get that mental boost, a cup of hot spearmint-cocoa will help you think about it.
