AYURVEDIC FOODS

Chocolate (cacao) Benefits (According to Ayurveda)

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"I am happy to read this. I allow myself 1 square of good 70% chocolate after dinner. It is all I need to satisfy the..."
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How Does This Ayurvedic Food Improve Wellness?

CLINICAL AYURVEDIC REVIEW

Recipes with Chocolate (Cacao): Xocolatl - Spicy Aztec Hot Chocolate
Recipes with Chocolate (Cacao): Xocolatl - Spicy Aztec Hot Chocolate
Sensual and luxurious, chocolate is evocative of desire and indulgence. It warms the heart and abdomen while elevating mood and lifting depression. Chocolate is an aphrodisiac, especially for women for whom chocolate may be addictive. The caffeine in chocolate stimulates brain activity and elevates the mood. Cinnamon or cayenne in hot chocolate enhances these passionate and stimulating qualities.

Medicinal Benefits

Chocolate's role in fertility extends beyond passion to the traditional use of cacao in pregnancy and to ease childbirth. Chocolate's warms and wakes up the reproductive organs - relaxing pelvic muscles during labor while simultaneously shifting a mother's awareness to the muscles of the pelvic floor. The shift in awareness helps her find and engage the muscles to deliver the fetus. Vasodilation of pelvic muscles also helps reduce preclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy).

Chocolate reduces chest congestion by improving circulation in major vessels around the heart and by relaxing bronchial spasms, which is also useful in asthma. In one study chocolate was found to be 3x more effective than codeine at reducing cough, without the drowsy side effects. The antitussive quality is due to theobromine, which suppresses the vagus nerve. Meso-Americans also used chocolate to treat fever.

Contraindications & Limits

Ayurvedically, chocolate aggravates Pitta and Vata primarily. Chocolate is also difficult to digest. Over consumption can leave you feeling nauseous. Its hot quality could leave a mild stinging sensation in the eyes about 15 minutes after eating - an early warning sign of high Pitta.

Chocolate has a reputation for breaking the will of dieters. In one study, chocolate derailed the discipline regimens of 48% of women and 32% of men. With chocolate, a little goes a long way. We recommend a maximum of two squares daily.

Although chocolate has many health benefits, the fats and sugars mixed into chocolate can aggravate Kapha heaviness & mucus congestion. Here are some more supportive ways of preparing chocolate: Try dark chocolate sprinkled with Red Chili, or candied Ginger coated in dark chocolate. Ginger and Red Chili help kindle your metabolic fire (agni) so that you digest the chocolate better.
Recipes with Chocolate (Cacao): Black Bean Chocolate Smoothie
Recipes with Chocolate (Cacao): Black Bean Chocolate Smoothie

Chocolate & Loneliness

Chocolate cravings come more intensely in times of loneliness. Add rose to your chocolate which will nourish the heart, leaving you feeling much more satisfied than plain chocolate. Dark chocolate covered almonds with sea salt and protein helps prevent a sugar spike from eating chocolate alone. Salt adds a stimulating taste that helps balance the sweet.

Chocolate is high in magnesium, anti-oxidants and flavonoids. It also contains tryptophan (a serotonin percursor), theobromine (a substance similar to caffeine) and trace amounts of amandamides (which activates the same receptor in the brain as marijuana). All of these factors combine into an alluring substance that is sensual, comforting, rich, and decadent. And, perhaps a little mind altering.

About Chocolate (Cacao)

Romance may be sealed with a box of chocolates, but passion for chocolate is as eternal as true love. Long before John Cadbury invented the chocolate bar, native meso-american peoples brewed chocolate with medicinal herbs. Chocolate has been used as sacrament and in shamanic ceremony, a practice that continues to this day, for over three millennia. The botanical name of chocolate, 'Theobroma', means "Food of the Gods", a testimony that your affection for chocolate may be as deep as your soul.

Buying & Preparation

On the grocery shelf, chocolate is usually mixed with refined sugars, dairy and fats. Choose dark chocolate with at least 70 per cent cocoa because it has minimal sugar and fat.

Chocolate seeds contain a bitter alkaloid that must be fermented to develop the flavor. After fermentation the beans are dried, cleaned, roasted, and then shelled to reveal the cacao nibs. Since chocolate is more a medicinal herb than a food, the best way to consume chocolate is in small doses.

Cooking Chocolate (Cacao)

The creamy texture of melted chocolate is a delight for all ages. Whether baked into brownies, chocolate chip cookies, cakes & cupcakes, melted into syrups, fudge, puddings & mousses, candied into truffles and chocolate bars, or served as ice-cream or hot-chocolate, chocolate is a versatile treat and popular food in celebrations and displays of affection.

Melted chocolate can be hardened with nuts & pistachios for texture. Strawberries dipped in chocolate offer a sensual treat, but are a difficult to digest food combination. Instead, dry dipping dried fruits and crystallized ginger into chocolates.

Or, mix cacao with tahini and honey for a luxurious treat. Chocolate, sesame seeds, nuts, cayenne and other spices form the popular Mexican sauce 'mole pablano'.

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Is Chocolate (Cacao) Good for My Ayurvedic Diet?

Find out by taking this free, easy quiz. You'll learn your body type, and whether 'Chocolate (Cacao)' is a good fit. Complete the basic quiz in 1 minute, or go deeper with additional quizzes at your own leisure to learn more about your body.

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AYURVEDA'S GUIDE TO VITALITY & WHOLESOME NOURISHMENT

Your Ayurvedic diet is tailored to your individual body and your specific imbalances. With an Ayurvedic diet you feel joy and satisfaction because what you are eating truly nourishes and balances you. Disease results from diets and lifestyles that are incompatible with your nature. By eating a personalized diet matched to your body, you experience optimal health. See How it Works.
SERVING SIZE: 1 tbsp
SPECIES: Theobroma cacao
FAMILY: Malvaceae

PREPARATION: ROASTED

Metabolic Nature of Chocolate (Cacao)

See a complete list of all biocharacteristics.
INCREASES
Guna Help

Increases These Biocharacteristics (Gunas)

Functional Ayurveda helps you assess imbalances through 20 main biocharacteristics (gunas). Aggravating these characteristics weakens your body and causes imbalance. By knowing which characteristics are habitually imbalanced in your body, you will be able to identify and correct imbalances before you get sick. Every characteristic has an opposite which balances it (i.e. hot balances cold). You restore balance by favoring diet and lifestyle choices that increase the opposite characteristic.

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MOBILE

ABOUT MOBILE BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Mobile refers to anything that stimulates the nervous system, muscles, or activity.

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DIFFICULT

ABOUT DIFFICULT BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Difficult refers to anything that is difficult to digest, or takes a long time to digest.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DIFFICULT

HOT

ABOUT HOT BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Hot is identified by increased body temperature, metabolism, or inflammation.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOT

LIQUEFIED

ABOUT LIQUEFIED BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Substances that thin fluids (lower viscosity of blood plasma). These may include blood thinners or mucolytic herbs.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LIQUEFIED

TASTES
Taste Help

The 6 Tastes

Taste is used to sense the most basic properties and effects of food. Each taste has a specific medicinal effect on your body. Cravings for food with certain tastes indicate your body is craving specific medicinal results from food. Taste is experienced on the tongue and represents your body's reaction to foods. Sweet taste causes physical satisfaction and attraction whereas bitter taste causes discomfort and aversion. Kapha should use less sweet taste while Vata and Pitta would benefit from using more sweet taste. One of the first signs of illness is that your taste and appetite for food changes. The six tastes are sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent. Do you crave foods with any of the tastes below?

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BITTER

ABOUT BITTER BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Bitter taste has cholagogue action - it is cold, clear, light, and stimulating. It increases digestive enzymes, laxative, and drying.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BITTER

DOSHAS
Dosha Help

The Three Doshas / Body Types

According to the biocharacteristic theory of medicine, people tend to get sick, over and over again, due to habitual causes and imbalances that are unique to the person. Your body type summarizes this tendency, showing you the 'type' of conditions and imbalances that frequently challenge your health & wellness. Using body type, you can also identify remedies likely to improve your strength and resiliency. Your body type identifies physical and mental characteristics as well as your personal strengths and weaknesses. The calculation of your body type is based on your medical history.

The 3 functional body types (doshas), are Catabolic (Vata), Metabolic (Pitta), and Anabolic (Kapha). Catabolic individuals tend to break down body mass into energy. They are easily stimulated, hyperactive, underweight and dry. Metabolic individuals tend to burn or use energy. They tend to be rosy-cheeked, easily irritated, focused, driven, and easily inflamed. Anabolic individuals tend to store energy as body mass. If they store too much energy, they could gain weight easily and have congestion. Anabolic people tend to be stable and grounded.

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PACIFIES
Kapha pacifying
AGGRAVATES
Pitta aggravating Vata aggravating
HAS THE FOLLOWING
Family: Malvaceae
HERBAL ACTIONS
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Medicinal Benefits, Uses & Herbal Actions of Chocolate (Cacao)
Help
Experiences are Personal
Experiences vary according to the person and constitution. Individual results may vary. The list of herbal-actions below has not be approved by the FDA and should not be used to treat a medical condition.

Anxiolytic

ANXIOLYTIC

Herbs that help people suffering from anxiety or panic. They promote a state of calm and often improve sleep. Most anxiolytic herbs are also nervines.

SEE ALL 'ANXIOLYTIC' FOODS / HERBS

,
Nervine

NERVINE

Balances the nervous system. They can help with stress, memory, early alzheimer's, and even chronic pain. Often they are aromatic in nature.

SEE ALL 'NERVINE' FOODS / HERBS

Stimulates Energy

STIMULATES-ENERGY

This category groups thyroid and adrenal stimulating herbs.

SEE ALL 'STIMULATES-ENERGY' FOODS / HERBS

Antitussive

ANTITUSSIVE

Cough suppressant, particularly for dry coughs or a tickle in your throat.

SEE ALL 'ANTITUSSIVE' FOODS / HERBS

,
Bronchodilator

MILD BRONCHODILATOR

An herb that encourages the widening or opening of the lung airways. They are helpful in wheezing and asthma.

SEE ALL 'BRONCHODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

Antioxidant

STRONG ANTIOXIDANT

An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals that lead to a chain reaction causing damage or death to cells. Antioxidants terminate these oxidation reactions.

SEE ALL 'ANTIOXIDANT' FOODS / HERBS

,
Blood Thinner

BLOOD-THINNER

Herbs that thin the blood. Helpful for people with heart disease or clogged circulation.

SEE ALL 'BLOOD-THINNER' FOODS / HERBS

Aphrodisiac

APHRODISIAC

Herbs that increase sexual arousal through various actions including increased circulation, relaxation, stimulation, or tonics that strengthen glandular health.

SEE ALL 'APHRODISIAC' FOODS / HERBS

Muscle Relaxant

MUSCLE-RELAXANT

Herbs that relax muscles. Helpful for chronic pain or tension as well as healing from physical trauma.

SEE ALL 'MUSCLE-RELAXANT' FOODS / HERBS

,
Antispasmodic

ANTISPASMODIC

Herbs that reduce or inhibit muscle spasms or cramping, such as in asthma, menstruation, hear palpitations, migraine, or IBS.

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Constituents:
Catechins

STRONG CATECHINS

Antioxidant that reduces cancer and blood clots, dilates blood vessels, and is antimicrobial.

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,
Flavonoids

STRONG FLAVONOIDS

Flavonoids are a colorful type of polyphenol. As all polyphenols, they have a strong antioxidant effect. Many flavonoids have an anti-inflammatory, and/or antiallergen effect.

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,
Nitric Oxide

STRONG NITRIC-OXIDE

Improves circulation by dilating blood vessels. Protects blood vessels from damage. Improves athletic performance, libido, immunity, and brain health.

SEE ALL 'NITRIC-OXIDE' FOODS / HERBS

, Tannins,
Caffeine Methylxanthines

CAFFEINE-METHYLXANTHINES

Methylxanthines are purine alkaloids that have a stimulant and bronchodilating effect.

SEE ALL 'CAFFEINE-METHYLXANTHINES' FOODS / HERBS

,
Polyphenols

POLYPHENOLS

Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants seen in many fruits and vegetables. There are more than 8,000 types.

SEE ALL 'POLYPHENOLS' FOODS / HERBS

,
Resveratrol

RESVERATROL

Antioxidant frequently used for anti-aging. Protects airways and blood vessels. Anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic.

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Foods with a Similar Nature to Chocolate (Cacao)

Hing (Asafoetida)

Hing (Asafoetida) has these Actions in Common

Antispasmodic, Nervine, Antitussive, Stimulates-energy, Bronchodilator

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Poppy Seed

Poppy Seed has these Actions in Common

Antitussive, Antioxidant, Anxiolytic, Antispasmodic, Muscle-relaxant

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Beets

Beets has these Actions in Common

Blood-thinner, Antispasmodic, Muscle-relaxant, Anxiolytic, Stimulates-energy

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Saffron

Saffron has these Actions in Common

Aphrodisiac, Stimulates-energy, Blood-thinner, Anxiolytic, Nervine

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Rosemary

Rosemary has these Actions in Common

Muscle-relaxant, Antispasmodic, Nervine, Bronchodilator, Stimulates-energy

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Mustard

Mustard has these Actions in Common

Bronchodilator, Muscle-relaxant, Antispasmodic, Stimulates-energy

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Mustard Powder

Mustard Powder has these Actions in Common

Antispasmodic, Stimulates-energy, Bronchodilator, Muscle-relaxant

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Lavender

Lavender has these Actions in Common

Muscle-relaxant, Antispasmodic, Nervine, Anxiolytic

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Caraway Seeds

Caraway Seeds has these Actions in Common

Antispasmodic, Stimulates-energy, Antitussive, Bronchodilator

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Almonds

Almonds has these Actions in Common

Aphrodisiac, Stimulates-energy, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine

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Herb Supplements with a Similar Nature to Chocolate (Cacao)

Dong Quai

Dong Quai has these Actions in Common

Nervine, Stimulates-energy, Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, Blood-thinner, Bronchodilator, Muscle-relaxant

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Lobelia

Lobelia has these Actions in Common

Antitussive, Anxiolytic, Bronchodilator, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine, Antispasmodic

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KapiKacchu

KapiKacchu has these Actions in Common

Aphrodisiac, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine, Stimulates-energy, Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic

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Angelica

Angelica has these Actions in Common

Nervine, Stimulates-energy, Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, Blood-thinner, Bronchodilator

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Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi)

Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi) has these Actions in Common

Stimulates-energy, Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic, Bronchodilator, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine

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Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has these Actions in Common

Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic, Aphrodisiac, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine, Antioxidant

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Mahanarayan Oil

Mahanarayan Oil has these Actions in Common

Antispasmodic, Blood-thinner, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine, Stimulates-energy

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California Poppy

California Poppy has these Actions in Common

Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine

LEARN MORE

Yogaraj Guggulu

Yogaraj Guggulu has these Actions in Common

Blood-thinner, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine, Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic

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Belly breathing

Belly breathing has these Actions in Common

Nervine, Stimulates-energy, Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic, Muscle-relaxant

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Deodar (Himalayan Cedar, Devadaru)

Deodar (Himalayan Cedar, Devadaru) has these Actions in Common

Antispasmodic, Bronchodilator, Muscle-relaxant, Nervine, Stimulates-energy

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Impact of Chocolate (Cacao)

In each clinical research trial below, students from the Joyful Belly School of Ayurveda ate the selected food for 3 days and reported the pharmacological effects. See other clinical research trials for diet & herbs at Joyful Belly.

TEMPERATURE/CIRCULATION

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your temperature?

0
0
9
17
1
Much colderSlightly colderSameSlightly warmerMuch warmer
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your ear temperature?

9
18
0
HotterNo ChangeCooler
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your sweat quantity?

0
1
19
6
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of your skin?

0
1
7
0
19
Yellower/GreenerPalerRedderGrayerNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of your tongue body?

4
11
0
12
PalerRedderBluerNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the swelling of your tongue body?

4
5
18
More SwellingLess SwellingNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your appetite/hunger?

4
10
6
7
0
Much less hungrySlightly less hungrySameSlightly hungrierMuch hungrier
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your digestion speed?

0
16
6
5
0
Much fasterSlightly fasterSameSlightly slowerMuch slower
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

TOXINS

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the amount of gas & bloating?

0
5
16
5
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your stool smell?

0
1
21
4
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

Tongue: How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the thickness & size of your tongue coating?

0
6
13
6
2
Much smallerSlightly lessSameSlightly larger coatingMuch larger
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of your tongue coating?

1
16
1
2
7
YellowerBrownerGrayerWhiterNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your throat soreness?

2
22
3
More soreNo ChangeLess sore
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your urine smell?

0
1
24
2
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the amount of bubbles in your urine?

1
1
24
1
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMany more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your sweat smell?

0
0
24
2
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your acne?

3
24
0
More acneNo ChangeLess acne
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your freckles/moles?

0
27
0
DarkerNo ChangeLighter
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of your sclera (white part of eye)?

2
0
0
0
3
Redder/BloodshotYellowerGrayerBrownerWhiter
22
No Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of the lower eye lid?

0
0
26
1
More green/dark greenMore purpleNo ChangeLess green/purple
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

HYDRATION

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your urine frequency/quantity?

1
3
18
5
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the dryness of your skin?

9
3
15
DrierOilierNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the puffiness of lower eye lid?

1
20
6
PuffierNo ChangeLess Puffy
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the cracks on your tongue?

1
4
16
6
0
Larger/longer/more cracksSlightly moreSameSlightly less/smaller/shorterMuch less
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

FLUID-THICKNESS

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your ear pressure?

4
21
2
More pressureNo ChangeLess pressure
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your congestion?

4
16
7
More congestionNo ChangeLess congestion
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the thickness of your mucous congestion?

5
14
8
More thickNo ChangeLess thick
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

NERVOUS-SYSTEM

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your energy levels?

0
1
3
22
1
Much less energySlightly lessSameSlightly more energyMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your muscle tension?

0
8
10
7
2
Much less tensionSlightly lessSameSlightly more tensionMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your anxiety?

0
7
9
9
2
Much less anxietySlightly lessSameSlightly more anxietyMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the stillness of your tongue?

3
15
9
More stillNo ChangeMore Trembling / Jittery
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

DIGESTION

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the amount of gas & bloating?

0
5
16
5
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect burning sensations in digestive tract (do not include acid reflux)?

0
3
17
7
0
Much reliefSlight reliefSameSlightly more burningMuch more burning
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your appetite/hunger?

4
10
6
7
0
Much less hungrySlightly less hungrySameSlightly hungrierMuch hungrier
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your digestion speed?

0
16
6
5
0
Much fasterSlightly fasterSameSlightly slowerMuch slower
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

TONGUE

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the cracks on your tongue?

1
4
16
6
0
Larger/longer/more cracksSlightly moreSameSlightly less/smaller/shorterMuch less
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

Tongue: How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the thickness & size of your tongue coating?

0
6
13
6
2
Much smallerSlightly lessSameSlightly larger coatingMuch larger
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the swelling of your tongue body?

4
5
18
More SwellingLess SwellingNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of your tongue body?

4
11
0
12
PalerRedderBluerNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the stillness of your tongue?

3
15
9
More stillNo ChangeMore Trembling / Jittery
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of your tongue coating?

1
16
1
2
7
YellowerBrownerGrayerWhiterNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

STOOL

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your stool smell?

0
1
21
4
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your stool consistency?

0
9
11
6
1
Much softerSlightly softerSameSlightly harderMuch harder
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your stool frequency/quantity?

1
3
15
7
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your stool color?

0
1
0
2
24
More yellowMore grayMore greenMore orangeSame
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your stool lightness?

0
2
17
8
0
Much lighterSlightly lighterSameSlightly darkerMuch darker
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

URINE

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your urine frequency/quantity?

1
3
18
5
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the amount of bubbles in your urine?

1
1
24
1
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMany more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your urine clarity?

3
19
5
More cloudySameMore clear
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your urine smell?

0
1
24
2
0
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your urine lightness?

0
2
21
4
0
Much lighterSlightly lighterSameSlightly DarkerMuch Darker
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

SWEAT

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your sweat smell?

0
0
24
2
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your sweat quantity?

0
1
19
6
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

SKIN

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of your skin?

0
1
7
0
19
Yellower/GreenerPalerRedderGrayerNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your freckles/moles?

0
27
0
DarkerNo ChangeLighter
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your acne?

3
24
0
More acneNo ChangeLess acne
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the dryness of your skin?

9
3
15
DrierOilierNo Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

EYE

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of your sclera (white part of eye)?

2
0
0
0
3
Redder/BloodshotYellowerGrayerBrownerWhiter
22
No Change
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the color of the lower eye lid?

0
0
26
1
More green/dark greenMore purpleNo ChangeLess green/purple
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the puffiness of lower eye lid?

1
20
6
PuffierNo ChangeLess Puffy
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

ENT

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your throat soreness?

2
22
3
More soreNo ChangeLess sore
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect the thickness of your mucous congestion?

5
14
8
More thickNo ChangeLess thick
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your ear temperature?

9
18
0
HotterNo ChangeCooler
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your congestion?

4
16
7
More congestionNo ChangeLess congestion
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your ear pressure?

4
21
2
More pressureNo ChangeLess pressure
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

SYSTEMIC

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your anxiety?

0
7
9
9
2
Much less anxietySlightly lessSameSlightly more anxietyMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your temperature?

0
0
9
17
1
Much colderSlightly colderSameSlightly warmerMuch warmer
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your energy levels?

0
1
3
22
1
Much less energySlightly lessSameSlightly more energyMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your muscle tension?

0
8
10
7
2
Much less tensionSlightly lessSameSlightly more tensionMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

HEART

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your heart rhythm?

7
20
0
More palpitationsSameLess palpitations
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your heart pain/pressure/cramping?

0
2
23
1
1
Much lessSlightly lessSameSlightly moreMuch more
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)

How did Chocolate (Cacao) affect your heart rate?

0
2
11
13
1
Much slowerSlightly slowerSameSlightly fasterMuch faster
Total Responses: 27 Study ID:80 (2021-12-04 - 2021-12-13)


Joyful Belly is a recognized school of biocharacteristics medicine.

TRADITIONALLY INDICATED FOR THESE SYMPTOMS

Chocolate (Cacao) may be beneficial for these symptoms. The suitability of any food for a condition is highly dependent on the individual. Please see your doctor before using this food to treat a medical condition.

Popping/clicking/locking jaw
How does Chocolate (Cacao) affect 'Popping/clicking/locking jaw'?
IT FEELS BETTER IT FEELS WORSE IT FEELS THE SAME
We will use this information to better predict food that helps you.

HOW DOES EATING AYURVEDICALLY MAKE YOU FEEL?

Eating Ayurvedically makes you feel nourished and energized. Food digests with ease when right for your body type (dosha). Healthy digestion is seen as the cornerstone of well-being in Ayurveda. Healthy digestion generally prevents illness. If you do get sick, a strong digestive fire reduces the severity of illness and increases your resilience. It also improves your mood. Once you begin eating Ayurvedically, you will feel refreshed, vital and strong.

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About John Joseph Immel

About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda biocharacteristics. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs Joyful Belly's School of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.

John's interest in Ayurveda and specialization in digestive tract pathology was inspired by a complex digestive disorder acquired from years of international travel, as well as public service work in South Asia. John's commitment to the detailed study of digestive disorders reflects his zeal to get down to the roots of the problem. His hope and belief in the capacity of each & every client to improve their quality of life is nothing short of a personal passion. John's creativity in the kitchen and delight in cooking for others comes from his family oriented upbringing. In addition to his certification in Ayurveda, John holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University.

John enjoys sharing Ayurveda within the context of his Catholic roots, and finds Ayurveda gives him an opportunity to participate in the healing mission of the Church. Jesus expressed God's love by feeding and healing the sick. That kindness is the fundamental ministry of Ayurveda as well. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 7 kids, and pursuing his love of theology, philosophy, and language.

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Comments & Impressions of 'Chocolate (cacao)'

Do you like 'chocolate (cacao)'? Why or why not? What makes it unique? Is there something else you'd like to know about 'chocolate (cacao)'?

full start reviewfull start reviewfull start reviewfull start reviewhalf start review(4.12 out of 5 stars) 8 ratings, 325 likes
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How about really dark chocolate - like 99%
- Paula Baum, Tucson, AZ , 10-23-11 (Reply)
Only the milk and sugar in chocolate aggravates Kapha. Pure, dark chocolate aggravates Pitta because it is heating and aggravates Vata because it is difficult to digest.
Chocolate aggravates Vata / Pitta whether or not the chocolate is organic.
If one was to make a hot chocolate drink of cacao powder and cayenne what base of the drink is suitable for Kapha instead of milk?
- Jacqueline Davis, Ocean shores , 03-22-14 (Reply)
Consider almond milk...or gold milk.
- David McKaig, Swannanoa, NC , 03-24-14 (Reply)
I am happy to read this. I allow myself 1 square of good 70% chocolate after dinner. It is all I need to satisfy the craving. Now I a can enjoy it without guilt!
- Susan Simonetti, Cocoa beach, FL
full start reviewfull start reviewfull start reviewfull start reviewfull start review
, 04-17-14 (Reply)
Should those of us who are pitta types avoid chocolate all together or simply limit consumption?
- Mary Ellen, Avon lake, OH , 01-08-15 (Reply)
What is a good way for vata people to take some chocolate? I know they crave the fat and sweetness, but the cacao is bitter.How do they cope with the cravings if there is no healthy way for them to take it?
- Jan Willem, Sturgeon, PD
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, 01-22-19 (Reply)
How does one use Cacao powder in a healthy way for the different doshas?
- Jan Willem, Sturgeon, PD , 01-22-19 (Reply)
It's better for Vata to get fat and sweet taste from other foods.
- Carrie Hoffman, Williams, AZ
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, 06-20-20 (Reply)
Cacao is most recommended for Kapha. It aggravates Pitta because it is heating and aggravates Vata because it is difficult to digest.
- Carrie Hoffman, Williams, AZ , 06-30-20 (Reply)
- Amber Smigelski
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, 09-08-23 (Reply)

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