By Vivienne Dempsey

Used for centuries in traditional cultures, ceremonial-grade cacao is now being rediscovered for its ability to support hormonal balance, emotional wellbeing, and overall health during menopause. Let’s explore how cacao can help.

During menopause, women may experience an increase in oxidative stress, which can contribute to various symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, fatigue and decreased bone density. Cacao is a potent source of antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body. Cacao can also help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage, alleviating some of these symptoms. And so, by incorporating cacao into your daily routine, you may help your body better manage the physical stress associated with menopause.

Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can lead to anxiety, low mood, and even depression. Cacao contains magical mood boosting compounds which can elevate mood and promote feelings of wellbeing including Theobromine (a gentle stimulant that boosts energy without a spike or crash), Phenylethylamine (PEA, “the love chemical” linked to feelings of happiness and love) and Anandamide (“the bliss molecule” associated with promoting a sense of calmness). These wonderful compounds in cacao make it a powerful natural mood booster for menopause, helping to elevate mood, reduce anxiety and support emotional balance.

Cacao is also a great source of several nutrients that can support overall health during menopause. One of cacao’s standout nutrients is magnesium—a mineral many women are deficient in, especially during menopause. Magnesium helps relax muscles, reduce cramping, support nervous system health, improve sleep quality and promote a sense of clam. Therefore, a daily dose of cacao is a delicious way to increase magnesium intake and support better sleep and relaxation during menopause.

As oestrogen levels decline, bone density can decrease, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Cacao contains essential minerals that support bone health, including magnesium, iron and calcium. Menopause can also affect metabolism and digestion, sometimes leading to weight fluctuations and bloating. As cacao is a natural source of dietary fibre, it is supportive to healthy digestion and good health and helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels and aids in weight management.

To experience the full benefits, you want to choose a high-quality, minimally processed cacao. You can swap your morning coffee for a cup of cacao, such as using our Barista cacao designed specifically to make cacao as easy as possible to integrate into your life. You could introduce a nightly routine into your life where you prepare cacao with intention and sit in presence whilst journalling or meditating. You could also bake with it! Use it in treats like chocolate cake, protein balls and so on as a delicious, nourishing treat.

Absolutely. If you are looking for a natural approach to manage your physical & emotional symptoms associated with menopause and are looking to feel overall more balanced, then yes, cacao could be a beautiful addition to your day.