Valentine’s Day is just around the corner.  This this tasty beverage will warm you up in the best way (wink, wink) and it’s full of superfoods too. This power beverage is full of ingredients that support circulation, reduce inflammation, increase energy, and even detox. Yes, you can even include this as a part of a detox as an occasional treat. You’re basically turning your morning smoothie into a cup of steaming hot chocolate.

I was first introduced a simple version of this gem at a detox retreat in Malta last March. I’ve been tweaking and I think this version works really well. Feel free to adjust to taste. Add an extra date to make it sweeter or omit the cinnamon if you prefer. Plenty of options to customize it to your own preferences.

You may see some new ingredients in this recipe. Most are available at your local health food store and easily delivered with an online order.

Beetroot Powder is high in potassium. The nitric oxide content helps protect from cellular damage, increase circulation, lower blood pressure, and supports healthy liver function.

Maca is a root native to Peru. It is traditionally used to enhance fertility and libido (yes – making it even more perfect for V-day). There is a lot of exciting research happening to learn more about this wondrous root. The latest studies are reporting  that maca root supports hormone balance, contributes to uplifting mood, helps combat fatigue, and may enhance memory and learning.

Raw Cacao Powder is a great source of minerals like potassium, magnesium and iron and has plenty of fiber to support healthy digestion. It is anti-inflammatory and promotes healthy circulation.

Cayenne Pepper is spicy and warming to the body. It can both reduce hunger and increase metabolism. Sign me up for that! The active ingredient, capsaicin, even has pain relieving properties. Cayenne pepper is easy to add the the diet in small doses and promotes healthy cellular function.

Collagen is an important protein found in our bodies. It is responsible for many structures in the body like bones, teeth, tendons, even cartilage, parts of the arteries and layers of the skin. Excess consumption of sugar and processed foods damages collagen as does smoking and getting a sunburn. We produce less collagen as we get older so it’s helpful to be sure that it’s included as part of the diet.

Cinnamon is a warming spice and has been shown to support regulation of blood sugar levels. Cinnamon is its own little power house. It’s anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and it supports healthy digestion.

MCT Oil is made from the Medium Chain Fatty Acids extracted mainly from coconut oil and is a great source of energy. Lots of people add MCT Oil to black coffee in the morning as part of an Intermittent Fasting plan. In some studies have shown MCT Oil to have anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties so it may help rid the body of accumulated yeasts and bacterias. It can help maintain optimal blood sugar levels and it is being studied to support weight loss as a part of a ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet has been known for over a century to reduce inflammation in the brain specifically in relation to epilepsy. These days, it’s also an option to help manage Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Have I convinced you yet that this is worth trying? All that goodness and it tastes great too!

Red Velvet Maca Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:
3/4 cup coconut milk*
1/2 cup water*
(*OR 1 1/4 cups Almond Milk)
1 Medjool date
1 tsp almond butter (optional)
1-2 tsp raw cacao powder
1 tsp beetroot powder
1 tsp maca powder
1/4 tsp cinnamon
pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
1 T vanilla collagen powder (omit for vegetarian)
1/2-1 tsp MCT oil (optional or coconut oil)
dash pure vanilla extract
pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Put all of the ingredients in blender and blend well.

2. Pour the mixture into saucepan and heat while whisking frequently.

5. Pour into mug. Sprinkle with beetroot powder, cacoa, powder, or cinnamon. Enjoy!