Health Factors and Contraindications of Cacao
If you’re new to cacao there are a few things you should know before consuming it. Although pure cacao has a loving, gentle energy and has greatly transformed many lives, it is important to respect the more subtle but still profound power of this plant medicine - she is not for everyone, but she is for most people. Cacao should be ingested with respect and common sense as with any other plant. Cacao is an ancient healer, teacher and state-altering substance and I encourage you to learn what dose suits your unique body and preferences. This involves knowing yourself, seeking information, asking questions and trying different doses in settings that feel right for you. There are many benefits to pure cacao, which are supported by scientific studies, but there are some precautions to be aware of. If you have any health issues or are on medication please speak to your doctor before consuming cacao.
Cacao is contraindicated with anti-depressants, especially MAOIs and some SSRIs. Pure Cacao contains tryptophan, tryptamine and MAO inhibitors that, when combined with anti-depressants, may cause a synergistic intensification and may influence your serotonin levels. Cacao should be entirely avoided if using MAOI antidepressants as they prevent the breakdown of tyramine, which causes levels to spike and may cause a rapid increase in blood pressure to dangerous levels. If you’re taking anti-depressants and you want to take pure Cacao, please speak with your doctor first and perhaps you can start with a homeopathic dose (5g) and see how you feel with that.
The theobromine in the cacao and can increase your heart rate so please seek medical advice if you have a serious heart condition and are taking medication. Interestingly, the flavanols in cacao have been linked to multiple heart health benefits due to their antioxidant activity.
Cacao is also a vasodilator, which lowers blood pressure and expands blood vessels. As a result this may intensify or interfere with the effects of hypertension medication.
If you are sensitive to stimulants please be aware that pure cacao contains theobromine which acts as a stimulator. For some this can make people feel awakened. Cacao contains much less caffeine than coffee, ten times less in fact. Furthermore, compared to caffeine, theobromine gives a longer and softer energy without the peak and dip that many people experience. I would advise avoiding consuming cacao in the evening and start with a lower dose.
Cacao is generally considered safe for consumption during pregnancy and during breastfeeding when taken in moderation. In fact, in the Mayan communities, it is often given to mothers as a health tonic as it is full of replenishng nutirients. However, as cacao affects different people in different ways and you have any concerns about using cacao please speak to your health care provider.
Some people are allergic or sensitive to theobromine which can result in headaches or migraines. If you find chocolate has triggered this before please start with a smaller quantity of cacao.
As cacao increases blood flow it may increase pressure in the eye of people with Glaucoma.
If you have a bleeding disorder please avoid consuming a lot of cacao as this may slow blood clotting in rare cases. Please consult your doctor if you have a bleeding disorder or consuming related medication.
Consuming cacao in excess could have some unpleasant side effects such as headaches, sweats, nausea or even heart palpitations for a small proportion of people. Generally, it is not recommended to take cacao doses above 55 grams. Please monitor your consumption.
