When you think of anti-aging what usually comes to mind? Antioxidants like blueberries and green tea perhaps? Did you know that the two top anti-aging foods are cold-pressed olive oil and raw chocolate? That’s according to raw-food and longevity guru David Wolfe, anyway. I happen to agree with him. Cacao has the most antioxidants available in any known food.

Yes, raw chocolate really and truly makes you happy! It’s scientifically proven that cacao raises the level of serotonin in the brain and therefore acts as an anti-depressant, promoting an overall sense of well-being.

Consumption of raw cacao chocolate is the ultimate delicious indulgence guaranteed to produce that super-satisfied feeling. Cravings disappear! Not only is eating raw cacao a delicious treat in and of itself, but it also sharpens the desire for other high-nutrient raw foods, such as green vegetables, salads, fresh juices and smoothies, which promotes better nutrition overall.

Nothing will add to the radiance of your skin like cacao. Raw chocolate is packed with minerals, vitamins, good fats and antioxidants. Eating raw chocolate is definitely my number-one beauty secret.

Chocolate is so “maxed out” with nutrients that I’d need to write another book to fully explore the topic! Raw cacao is rich in minerals such as calcium, iron, sulphur, potassium, manganese, chromium, sodium, phosphorus and even zinc – plus, vitamins A1, B1, B2, C, D and E, just to name a few.

Raw chocolate contains phenylethylamine (PEA), a natural chemical compound that is created within the brain and is also released when we are in love. PEA acts as a mild mood elevator and an anti-depressant, and it helps increase focus and alertness. Therefore, raw chocolate works wonders on your libido. Try a few raw cacao beans to note their aphrodisiac effects almost instantly!

Raw chocolate works hard and fast on your metabolism while nourishing every part of your body. I challenge you replace sugary desserts or snacks with some delicious raw cacao creations instead, and note the effects it has on your figure.

Apparently one of the best things you can do for your health daily is to laugh. Making raw chocolate is one of those feel-good healthy recreations which, when shared, tends to bring about lots of smiles and laughter with family and friends (especially when licking out the bowl). The Raw Chocolate Fondue recipe in my book is perfect for lovers, and it’s even more fun when shared in the bath! Having fun is something we should indulge in daily for longevity and wellbeing; add in chocolate and you have fulfillment in every sense of the word.

Squeezing three into one here! Did you know that raw cacao chocolate is wonderful for heart health? Cacao stimulates circulation, and opening of the blood vessels. Raw chocolate is also the highest natural food source available for the essential nutrient magnesium, which is wonderful for the heart muscle and nourishing and restoring every muscle in the body. It’s also the best thing you can possibly eat for PMS. No wonder women crave chocolate at that time of the month.

In order to produce fair trade chocolate, farmers in developing countries are being employed fairly. This makes a huge difference to their whole community and reduces the need for child labor. Organic plantations must be kept free from disease, so cacao trees are grown amongst rain-forest trees, as it protects them from pests and creates the perfect environment for them to thrive. Isn’t it wonderful to know that we are actually saving the earth and the rain forests when we purchase raw fair-trade and organic cacao products or chocolate bars.

We’re giving away one copy of Abigail’s new book Model Chocolate! Leave us something, anything about your love of chocolate and may the best comment win….