Let’s talk about ceremonial cacao dosage!
How much cacao should I have?
How much cacao to ingest depends on whether you are having a personal or group ceremony, or if you are just wanting to enjoy cacao for the health and energizing benefits.
It also depends on how sensitive you are, and if you have any health concerns.
If you are new to cacao, please start with a light dose and see how it feels.
See more below
Dosage
A typical ceremonial dose of cacao is 1-2 ounces. That is about 2-4 tbsps.
A solid ceremonial dose is easily measured in 1/4 cup of cacao per person (3 tbsps) or just over that amount.
A daily dose of cacao is 11-22 grams, or 1-2 tbsps.
For those who are sensitive, start with a light dose, 1 tsp-1tbsp.
If you consume cacao daily, it is recommended that you do not have more than 25-30 grams a day (0.8 to 1 oz.)
Soul Melody Cacao
1 pound (16 ounces) of cacao has around 10-20 doses of ceremonial cacao.
Our Guatemalan cacao comes in 1 pound (16 ounce) blocks
Our Peruvian cacao comes sold by the 1/2 pound (8 ounces)
Health
Here are some questions to ask yourself to know if cacao may, or may not be beneficial for you at this time:
How does your body absorb & metabolize fats?
If your body does not absorb or metabolize fats so easily, the high fat content of cacao can contribute to digestive imbalance. You may want to take a very small amount, or avoid if you are experiencing acid reflux, gastritis, or chronic acidity.
How is your digestive system?
If you have unhealthy gut flora, cacao can be a bit harder to digest and assimilate.
How is your cardiovascular health?
If you have good cardiovascular health, cacao is beneficial for you!
If you do not have good cardiovascular health, cacao can be strong on the vascular surface, which can increase risk for stoke, high pressure or heart palpitations
Therefore, cacao microdosing (having a small amount of 5-10 grams daily) can be helpful for your heart condition; avoid the ceremonial dose.
Are you pregnant?
Enjoy cacao in lighter doses because it can be intense for the cardiovascular and nervous system to take in.
> Benefits
Cacao is generally a safe plant medicine for most!
Finding the right dosage for your body is key.
If you are a healthy individual, cacao can encourage you to keep practicing beneficial habits such as exercise, healthy eating and regular sleep patterns
Cacao is full of:
Antioxidants
Minerals such as magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc, manganese
Proteins essential for body tissues
Fruit sugar that provides energy
Polyphenols that boost digestion, brain health and protects us against disease
& more