Important Information

How Often Should I Drink Cacao?

Our advice is always to feel into your body and find what dose is best for you.

What we recommend to most people is drinking Cacao on a daily basis to get all of the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, healthy fats as well as the heart opening and uplifting benefits. Some other people tend to only drink cacao in ceremony so there is no right or wrong answer- do what feels best for you.

When drinking Cacao every day, a dose of 15-25 gr is a good dosage.

We recommend having a ceremonial dose which is about 40 gr no more than 3 times per week, especially when beginning to drink Cacao ceremonially.

 

How much Cacao is too much?

How much you consume depends on your intention. For a daily cup we recommend 15-25gr. For a ceremonial dose, we recommend 40-45 gr. More than 45gr in a serving can be too much, especially for those who are just beginning their journey with Cacao.

When you drink too much Cacao, you may experience headaches, nausea, and stomach disruptions due to its detoxifying effects- if this happens to you, drink a lot of water, go out in nature and get some rest.

Ceremonial Cacao Dosage: 

  • Daily dose: 15-25 grams

  • Ceremonial dose: 40-45 grams

  • Overconsumption symptoms: Headaches, nausea, digestive issues

Cacao and Antidepressants

  • Cacao has natural antidepressant properties

  • Avoid high doses if taking MAOIs or SSRIs

  • Possible serotonin overload symptoms: Headaches

  • Solution: Lower dosage, hydrate, rest

Can I drink Ceremonial Cacao if I am taking Antidepressants?

 

Ceremonial cacao is a natural antidepressant. Therefore it is not recommended to drink a strong dose of cacao if you are on an MAOI or SSRI antidepressant until you know it works for you. (You know your body best!)

What can happen is that since cacao has a similar effect as these antidepressants, drinking a ceremonial dose of cacao can overload the receptors with serotonin and too much serotonin in the system can cause headaches - if this occurs, drink lots of water and rest.

This being said, we have had friends attend our cacao ceremonies with SSRI medication and drinking a lower dose they were absolutely fine. If you have any doubt, consult with your doctor. 

Cacao and Pregnancy / Post-Pregnancy

  • Avoid cacao during the first trimester if new to it

  • After 3 months, 15-20 grams per day is generally safe

  • Consult your doctor for personalized guidance

Can I drink Ceremonial Cacao while I'm pregnant?

We recommend not starting with cacao in your first trimester if you don't already have a practice with it- after the first 3 months there is no harm in consuming a small dose of ceremonial cacao daily- but do not make it too strong. We suggest somewhere between 15-20 gr a day, but consult with your doctor if you have any doubt.

Cacao and Heart Conditions

  • Cacao increases heart rate and lowers blood pressure

  • Start with a small dose if you have heart conditions

  • Consult a doctor before regular use

The theobromine in cacao increases heart rate significantly. And it is a vasodilator lowering your blood pressure. So if you have a serious heart condition, we suggest you consult your doctor before drinking cacao and go lighter on the amounts until you know what works for you.

Cacao and Your Pet/s

We know your pet/s are cute and you love them, but keep them away from your cacao, especially dogs, parrots, and possibly horses, as they can die from drinking it. So now you have even more reasons to watch your cup, do not spill a drop of this magical drink.

Side Effects of Drinking Cacao (Cacao Ceremony Side Effects)

While cacao is generally safe, excessive consumption can cause:

  • Potential side effects: Headaches, nausea, digestive discomfort, increased heart rate, insomnia

  • Solutions: Reduce dosage, drink water, rest

If any of these occur, lower your dosage and drink plenty of water.

For any further question, please contact us: