How to Make a Healthy Hot Cocoa

Is there anything better than drinking a hot cup of cocoa on a chilly winter night? We can actually think of something better – drinking a hot cup of brain healthy cocoa on a chilly winter night. By the way, hot cocoa actually contains twice the antioxidants of a glass of red wine and three times as many as found in green tea! How can we make our indulgent mug brain healthy? Read on to find out!

• Cinnamon
• Cayenne
• Peppermint Oil
• Orange Oil

Cinnamon. Add a bit of extra warmth to your hot cocoa by topping it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Not only does this add a unique flavor to your hot cocoa, but there are also brain health benefits to cinnamon. There have been studies done that suggest even just smelling cinnamon, or chewing cinnamon flavored gum is enough to boost brain function. Plus, cinnamon is packed full of manganese, which is an antioxidant good for body and brain health.

Cayenne. If you’re a fan of spice, then this tip is for you! To give your hot cocoa a bit of a kick, sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper on top of your hot cocoa. Cayenne pepper is a good source of vitamin A, which helps with vision, skin, and our brain health.

Peppermint Oil. Peppermint and chocolate – a classic combination. Next time you mix up your hot cocoa, add about 3-6 drops of peppermint oil to your hot cocoa. Peppermint oil is great for boosting energy and improving your focus and concentration. Don’t have peppermint oil on hand? You can even infuse a bag of peppermint tea into your hot cocoa. You won’t be disappointed with this combination!

Orange Oil. Adding a bit of orange to your hot chocolate not only gives it a unique flavor, it also comes with its share of brain health benefits. Orange oil has been shown to improve mood and help with stress levels. Next time you make your mug of hot cocoa, drop about 3-6 drops of oil into your cocoa, and you’ll have a tasty, brain healthy treat.