Cognitive Cacao and Coffee Blend – Organic

Organic Cognitive Cacao and Coffee Blend combines the bold taste of coffee with the smooth, chocolatey richness of cacao. This aromatic blend delivers a balanced flavor profile that is both energizing and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for lattes, mochas, and creative recipes.

Convenient and versatile, it can be enjoyed hot, iced, or blended into smoothies and desserts. With its robust flavor and easy-to-use form, this blend offers a delicious way to enjoy two timeless favorites in one cup.

Organic Cognitive Cacao and Coffee with Matcha, MCTs & Mushrooms

While the market is flooded with a wide variety of functional coffee products and creamers with similar ingredients, your final decision is often based on taste, versatility, and effectiveness.

Our Organic Cognitive Cacao and Coffee blend has a wide range of uses and endless potential for culinary creativity. With a deep, rich coffee flavor and the richness of cacao, this powerful blend exhibits excellent potential for a wide range of daily uses, complemented by the potent effect and mild earthiness from medicinal mushrooms.

Our mission is to provide customers with great-tasting, highly functional foods with endless applications in their most versatile form, supporting a variety of lifestyles. We proudly introduce the newest member of our diverse line of functional foods: Z Natural Foods Organic Unsweetened Cognitive Cacao and Coffee blend. 

Few things beat a hot cup of coffee to get your morning started.

It provides instant energy and supercharges your body to kick-start the day (especially when you add the right nourishing ingredients). But there’s more to this warm (or iced) and delicious cup of java than what meets the eye.

Unfortunately, a simple cup of coffee, which offers potent polyphenolic compounds, has its pitfalls: the rollercoaster ride it brings to your mind and body. However, all is not lost.

The world of functional coffee products may have solved this problem. By creating a functional coffee blend with the right ingredients, you provide potent nourishment while also preventing the depleting effects of caffeine, and you have taken something from ordinary to extraordinary. Remember, a functional coffee blend is not just about downregulating the effects of caffeine. It’s creating a healthy, sustainable energy and a focused mind.

This is precisely what we have done with our new Organic Cognitive Cacao and Coffee blend.

When creating this delicious blend, we had four goals in mind: 

1. Great tasting and effective
2. Providing nourishment and downregulating the effects of caffeine
3. Create the feeling of a calm focus
4. Support cognitive health

When you go to most companies’ websites that make similar products, it is uncommon to see a thorough explanation of the benefits of ingredients and how they work to achieve the end result. Here at Z Natural Foods, we provide all the details so you can make an educated purchase.

Organic Instant Coffee

In simple terms, instant coffee is created by freezing or spray-drying roasted beans to remove their water content, essentially producing dehydrated coffee. It is essential to recognize that instant coffee is indeed coffee and is made from real coffee beans.

Maillard reaction products, which occur during the roasting process, provide all the different flavors and aromas and contribute to coffee’s antioxidant activity, which nourishes our brain, heart, and soul. Some of these include, but are not limited to, hydrocinnamic acids, diterpenes, trigonelline, cafestol, and melanoidin, with caffeine and chlorogenic acid being the most predominant.

Until recently, coffee had a bad reputation and was considered unhealthy. However, recent research on the benefits of polyphenols and our better understanding of all the potent compounds in coffee are changing that perspective.

• According to the Phenol-Explorer database, coffee was ranked #11 in the top 100 best antioxidant foods.
• There are over 8,000 different types of flavonoids in nature. Research shows that it does not seem to matter whether you acquire them from food or supplements; what matters is the total daily amount you consume.
• Experts also believe we should consume 500 to 2000 milligrams of flavonoids daily, sourced from various foods and supplements. One cup of coffee provides 400-600 milligrams of polyphenolic compounds(12 ounces of decaf provides 400 milligrams). 
• The average cup of conventional coffee provides only 92 milligrams of chlorogenic acid. However, soaking and draining the beans before roasting helps retain the polyphenolic compounds. A cup of coffee that has undergone this process provides around 172 milligrams of chlorogenic acid.

The following is stated in a review titled Flavonoids: Antioxidants or Signaling Molecules:

• While the primary focus has been on the antioxidant properties, an emerging view suggests that flavonoids and their in vivo metabolites may not act as conventional hydrogen-donating antioxidants, but instead exert modulatory actions in cells through interactions with protein kinase and lipid kinase signaling pathways.
• Inhibitory or stimulatory actions at these pathways are likely to profoundly affect cellular function by altering the phosphorylation state of target molecules and modulating gene expression.
• A clear understanding of flavonoids’ mechanisms of action, either as antioxidants or modulators of cell signaling, and the influence of their metabolism on these properties is critical to evaluating these potent biomolecules as cardioprotectants and inhibitors of neurodegeneration.”

A study examining the impact of coffee consumption on subclinical inflammation and other risk factors for type 2 diabetes reported the following findings.

• Coffee consumption increased coffee-derived compounds, mainly serum caffeine, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid metabolites.
• Significant changes were also observed for serum concentrations of interleukin-18, 8-isoprostane, and adiponectin (medians: -8 %, -16 %, and 6%, respectively; consumption of 8 cups compared with 0 cups of coffee/d).
• Serum concentrations of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein A-I increased significantly by 12%, 7%, and 4%, respectively, whereas the ratios of LDL to HDL cholesterol and of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-I decreased significantly by 8% and 9%, respectively (8 cups coffee/d compared with 0 cups).

Therefore, the following was concluded. “Coffee consumption appears to have beneficial effects on subclinical inflammation and HDL cholesterol, whereas no changes in glucose metabolism were found in our study. Furthermore, many coffee-derived methylxanthines and caffeic acid metabolites appear useful as coffee intake biomarkers.”

Finally, because we don’t want caffeine to be put on the chopping block as being “bad”, it is essential to understand some crucial facts about this potent compound.

The mechanisms of action for caffeine are mediated in four different ways.

• Antagonism of adenosine receptors
• Inhibition of phosphodiesterase
• The release of calcium from intracellular stores
• Antagonism of benzodiazepine receptors

Caffeine essentially does the same thing, whether consumed as an isolated compound or as part of the complex compounds found in coffee. However, those other compounds enhance caffeine’s mechanisms of action by nourishing and supporting it.    

Cacao: The food of the gods  

Pure cacao is one of nature’s most wondrous creations, revered as one of the most incredible foods on earth, and valued by shamans and ethnobotanists alike. It was even used as currency by the Mayans and Aztecs. Cacao beans are the rawest, most pure, and unadulterated form of what you may know as chocolate. Untreated, raw, organic cacao has been used for centuries as a wonderfully nourishing food. This food is precisely what Hippocrates had in mind when he said, “Let food be thy medicine.” Rich in the flavanols epicatechin and catechin, with procyanidins providing the majority of antioxidant activity.

Cacao also contains a treasure trove of essential minerals, including calcium, Magnesium, and potassium. Depending on the quality of your cacao and which food analysis you are looking at, one tablespoon of cacao (approximately 5 grams) yields 15 milligrams of Calcium, 43 milligrams of Magnesium, and 120 milligrams of Potassium. Some ethnobotanists believe that cacao may be one of the most nutritious foods you can consume. The experience of eating a nourishing form of cacao can be attributed to the synergy of unique compounds in this food.

1) Theobromine: The powerful Antioxidant

Theobromine, also known as caffeine’s cousin, is primarily found in cacao and tea.

In one 50-gram serving of cacao, you might discover about 250 mg of theobromine. Featured in Frontiers in Pharmacology, researchers found that this remarkable compound offers significant antioxidant properties, could be considered a safe and natural alternative for supporting specific health ailments, and is a lead compound for potentially developing novel future therapies.

2) Phenylethylamine (PEA): The feel-good chemical 

Phenylethylamine (PEA) is the actual love compound found in cacao. While PEA is in cacao only in small amounts, it carries a significant effect. Via stimulation of the nervous system, PEA may trigger the release of endorphins and potentiate the activity of dopamine associated with sexual arousal and pleasure. So, in other words, that restless feeling you have when you are in love is primarily due to PEA.

MCT Powder: A Fatty Acid with Unique Qualities

There are four main types of MCTs:

1. Caproic acid (C6) is an oily liquid at room temperature that may support healthy production of blood ketones. It’s found in animal fats and several plants and is slightly soluble in water with an unpleasant odor.
2. Caprylic Acid (C8) has been shown to support healthy energy, boost ketone production, and facilitate weight loss.
3. Capric Acid (C10) has many of the same properties as caprylic acid (C8) (e.g., it boosts ketones, is antimicrobial, and can help reduce body fat, but it generally takes a bit longer for the body to process into ketones.
4. Lauric Acid (C12) is a significant component of coconut oil. Like C8 and C10, lauric acid also possesses antimicrobial action. Still, because it’s a bigger molecule (more carbon atoms connected), it takes even longer to break down and isn’t optimal for ketone production.

Our MCT Oil Powder is primarily C8 and C10 with the following typical composition:

C8 (Caprylic) = 50%
C10 (Capric) = 35%

While there is no nutritional difference between a well-made MCT oil and powder, it has been suggested that MCT powder has superior qualities to the oil regarding ease of use, texture, blending, and greater tolerance (due to the fibrous carrier powder, allowing for slower digestion). Most importantly, the powder allows for greater versatility and a creamier texture.

Fats constitute the most significant nutritional source of energy. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are uniquely processed in the body, making them easier to digest and metabolize. This provides your body with a steady supply of readily available energy, supporting your overall health and well-being.

• Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are more ketogenic than long-chain triglycerides (LCT)
• Easily digested, MCTs give your body plenty of readily available energy.

In the past, MCTs were considered unhealthy due to their high saturated fat content. However, it has now been proven that medium-chain triglycerides are unlike any other fat on Earth and have high nutritional value. So, why is MCT fat different? MCTs are unique fat molecules, which makes their composition different from most fats we consume. The following was stated in a paper titled “Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) formulas in pediatric and allergological practice.”

• MCT’s proper use by the body conditions several complex digestion, absorption, distribution, and metabolism mechanisms.
• These mechanisms are facilitated by fats made of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), making them an easy and quick energy source.
• A quality supply of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) is essential for digestion and absorption.

Another paper discussing MCT’s ability to enhance exercise performance stated, “As a dietary supplement, MCTs are often used along with medications for treating food absorption disorders, including diarrhea, steatorrhea, and liver disease.” “MCTs have many benefits and have also been shown to reduce weight, metabolic syndrome, abdominal obesity (stomach fat), and even inflammation.”

Medicinal Mushroom: The Great Equalizers

When you add mushroom-fruiting body extracts to your coffee, you have gone from a nourishing beverage to a potent tonic. Mushrooms contain a wide range of nourishing compounds.

• Polysaccharides are believed to be mushrooms’ primary family of compounds that may support a healthy aging process.
• Mushrooms contain a wide range of non-starch polysaccharides (carbohydrate fractions excluding starch and free sugar)like chitin, beta-glucans, alpha-glucans, hemicellulose, mannans, xylans, and galactans.
• Non-starch polysaccharides are distinguished into soluble and insoluble fractions, with up to 90% being insoluble fractions.
• Most (around 80%)of insoluble polysaccharides are chitin, including beta-glucans bound onto chitin or protein.
• Polysaccharides can support a wide range of actions in the human body.
• They have been shown to have immunological, neurogenic, cardiovascular, and microbiome effects, as well as numerous other nourishing qualities.

Until recently, it was believed that the primary polysaccharides found in fungi are beta-D-glucans, which come in various forms (beta 1-3 and beta 1-6) and are the powerhouse that makes mushrooms work. Other polysaccharides found in mushrooms are Alpha-glucans like glycogen, dextran, pullulan, and starch, which, for a long time, were not thought to provide the same nourishing qualities as beta-glucans. Modern research has taught us that this belief only tells part of the story and may be based on flawed science.

While beta-glucans are potent compounds, there are hundreds of beta-glucan shapes and sizes, and while some are biologically active, others are not. Furthermore, not all are immunologically active. Ultimately, they are just one variable of a wide range of compounds responsible for a mushroom’s many nourishing qualities. From tradition to science, medicinal mushrooms have proven their value as potent tonics with great versatility.

The purpose of Reishi and Lion’s Mane Extracts in our blend

A long-standing practice in herbal medicine, known as tonic herbalism, is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Medicinal mushrooms are highly regarded in this system due to their safe record and broad-spectrum effects. Tonic herbs are not used to treat or prevent specific issues. They promote and support general well-being by enhancing energy and regulating function. The priority is not about healing but gently promoting one’s health. Tonic herbs provide adaptive Qi, enabling us to cope with daily stressors more effectively. Ultimately, this will enable us to grow as human beings.

Red Reishi is known as “The Mushroom of Immortality” and has a long and well-documented history in traditional Chinese medicine. Because of its ability to potentially support a healthy aging process via nourishing what Chinese medicine calls “The Three Treasures.”

• Jing is, essence, primarily stored in the kidneys. Jing is one’s constitution, regulates the body’s growth and development, and works with Qi to protect the body from harmful external conditions. Poor constitution, blood loss, and excessive sexual activity can cause Jing essence deficiencies.
• Qi is a life force or vital energy stored in the kidneys. Both the physical and emotional are manifested as Qi. The Qi in our body is derived from two sources. First, it is inherited from our parents, and the second is derived from essential substances like air, food, and water. Deficiencies are caused by poor nutrition and digestion, chronic stress, and constrained breathing.
• Together, Jing and Qi are believed to form the foundation for Shen.
• Shen is the emotional and spiritual layer of our being, reflecting the state of our nervous system. Shen lives in the heart and is said to “preside over the activities that take place in the spiritual and mental planes.” Because Shen lives in the heart, people with disturbed Shen may experience anxiety, stress, difficulty breathing, and insomnia. In such cases, the primary weakness is from the spleen, which cannot generate enough blood to nourish the heart and anchor the Shen.

Red Reishi primarily consists of complex carbohydrates, including water-soluble polysaccharides, triterpenoids, proteins, and amino acids. Thanks to modern techniques for performing tissue cultures, we know that reishi has around 16,000 genes that code for more than 200,000 compounds, and 400 are active constituents. Red Reishi could arguably be one of the greatest tonics on earth, supporting a healthy immune system response and liver function. Reishi is highly revered for its ability to promote the growth of wisdom.

What is better than having ingredients in a blended drink like cacao and MTCs that nourish the brain? How about a true Nootropic that has been studied to support neurogenesis and neuroplasticity? Lion’s mane is considered to be a leader in the category of Nootropics. 

Nootropics are a category of substances (both natural and synthetic) that show potential for improving cognitive function through relaxation, supporting a healthy mood, memory, attention, and creativity. The Romanian psychologist Corneliu Giurgea first defined the term Nootropic and was also the first to synthesize one of the most well-known substances in this general category, Piracetam, in 1964. The Giurgea Nootropic Criteria states that for any substance to be considered a nootropic, it must do the following:

• Enhance learning and memory.
• Enhance the resistance of learned behaviors and memories to conditions that tend to disrupt them.
• Protect the brain against a broad spectrum of physical or chemical injuries.
• Increase our ability to focus and pay attention
• Lack of common side effects that are related to other psychotropic drugs
• Be non-toxic at clinical dosages

Neurogenesis is the growth and development of nerve tissue. According to a review article in Frontiers, neurogenesis function is: “The neural proliferate, migrate, and differentiate into mature neurons that eventually form the central nervous system.”

Based on our current understanding of this complex process, neurogenesis may play a role in memory, learning systems, and protecting the brain from the adverse effects of chronic stress.

Neuroplasticity is “The ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli by reorganizing its structure, functions, or connections after injuries.”  Simply put, the brain can change and adapt due to experiences. For example, it is finding a new way to the store or remembering someone’s name.

Matcha Tea: A Potent Source of Theanine

Matcha, one of Japan’s most traditional and respected beverages, has become a trendy drink in local coffee and tea shops throughout Western society. But Matcha is much more than your average green tea or grandma’s cup of Lipton black tea. This strong, polyphenol-packed tea is not only time-tested but also has a colorful history and powerful nourishing qualities, as it is the only beverage in its natural state that creates the perfect feeling of a “focused calm.”

The harvest from which it comes will determine the price, quality, and rating.

• The first harvest, which occurs between March and May, is considered the highest-end tea and marks the most expensive in the Japanese tea market. This harvest has a more robust aroma and deeper flavor; one cup is considered enough.
• The second harvest happens in June. It has a more well-rounded smell and lighter taste, and can be drunk more than once daily. Tea from the second harvest is considered more balanced because it is not as concentrated in all the powerful constituents.
• The third and fourth harvests occur between August and mid-September. Most tea bags and bottled teas come from this harvest and are the lowest on the pricing scale.

Standard green tea is cultivated under the sun, creating a dull green leaf with a brownish tone. Processed and prepared by steeping parts of the leaves in hot water boiled over 220 degrees. Matcha is shade-grown for three weeks before harvesting, which increases chlorophyll levels and gives matcha its vibrant, bright green color. It is processed by grinding up the entire leaf into a fine, silky powder and prepared by slowly and meticulously whisking it into water that does not exceed a temperature of 170 degrees. With Matcha, you are consuming the entire leaf, providing you with more excellent broad-spectrum nourishment.

Here are three excellent examples of how matcha boasts superior antioxidant properties.

• More than double the catechin EGCG properties compared to standard green tea.
• More than ten times the polyphenolic tannin levels compared to standard green tea.
• More than ten times the L-Theanine levels compared to standard green tea.

L-Theanine: The Great Amino Acid Equalizer

Finally, we can’t end this product description without discussing a compound that has proven itself to be one of the most effective substances in both single-dose administration and long-term use for supporting a healthy mood, mindset, and outlook. L-Theanine is an amino acid primarily found in various forms of tea. However, while there are many trademark raw material supplements of this potent amino acid, Matcha is the primary source of L-Theanine. An average cup of high-quality matcha at a 2-gram serving size contains 40 milligrams of Theanine and 70 milligrams of caffeine.

Research has shown that Theanine does cross the blood-brain barrier and demonstrates anti-stress effects ( and perceived stress) on stress markers like blood pressure, heart rate, cortisol, and brainwave activities. However, one of Theanine’s impressive qualities is to generate a relaxed-alert feeling from both long-term and single-dose usage via several mechanisms of action.

• Enhances the production of the relaxing neurotransmitter GABA, which then affects dopamine and serotonin’s soothing effects.
• Increasing Alpha brain waves, which supports deep relaxation and alertness

The following was stated in a placebo-controlled randomized study investigating the effects of a single dose of L-Theanine on stress in healthy adults. This study was conducted during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, which has had a profound and significant impact on both physical and mental health worldwide.

• L-Theanine led to a greater increase in frontal region and whole-scalp alpha power three hours post-dose compared to placebo (p ≤ 0.050).
• Within groups, there were increases in alpha power at three hours with L-Theanine, over the whole recording, and during the eyes-open portions (p ≤ 0.048) of the alpha task.
• The changes in alpha wave activity are supported by greater decreases in salivary cortisol one hour post-dose (p < 0.001) with L-Theanine compared to placebo.

Therefore, the following was concluded. “A single dose of AlphaWave® L-Theanine significantly increased frontal region alpha power compared to placebo in response to an acute stress challenge. These changes are indicative of relaxation in the brain and suggest a calming response. AlphaWave® L-Theanine was found to be safe and well tolerated by participants.”

The combination of caffeine and L-theanine is renowned for creating a feeling of controlled, calm focus. If you have ever had a well-made cup of matcha, you know exactly what I am talking about. The following was stated in a randomized controlled trial evaluating the combined effects of theanine and caffeine on mood and cognitive performance:

• Caffeine improved subjective alertness at 60 min and accuracy on the attention-switching task at 90 min.
• The L-theanine and caffeine combination improved both the speed and accuracy of performance in the attention-switching task at 60 minutes, and reduced susceptibility to distracting information in the memory task at both 60 minutes and 90 minutes.
• These results replicate previous evidence, which suggests that combining L-theanine and caffeine is beneficial for improving performance on cognitively demanding tasks.

Summary of Important Information

Z Natural Foods handpicks specific ingredients for our customers based on three concepts to provide the best possible quality product, supporting optimal well-being.

• Versatility
• History of safe and effective usage
• Strong evidence of positive research outcomes in human

Important summary points

Coffee

• According to the Phenol-Explorer database, coffee was ranked #11 in the top 100 best antioxidant foods.
• There are over 8,000 different types of flavonoids in nature. Research shows that it does not seem to matter whether you acquire them from food or supplements; what matters is the total daily amount you consume.
• Experts also believe we should consume 500 to 2000 milligrams of flavonoids daily, sourced from various foods and supplements. One cup of coffee provides 400-600 milligrams of polyphenolic compounds(12 ounces of decaf provides 400 milligrams). 
• The average cup of conventional coffee provides only 92 milligrams of chlorogenic acid. However, soaking and draining the beans before roasting helps retain the polyphenolic compounds. A cup of coffee that has undergone this process provides around 172 milligrams of chlorogenic acid.

Medicinal Mushroom: The Great Equalizers

• Polysaccharides are believed to be mushrooms’ primary family of compounds that may support a healthy aging process.
• Mushrooms contain a wide range of non-starch polysaccharides (carbohydrate fractions excluding starch and free sugar)like chitin, beta-glucans, alpha-glucans, hemicellulose, mannans, xylans, and galactans.
• Non-starch polysaccharides are distinguished into soluble and insoluble fractions, with up to 90% being insoluble fractions.
• Most (around 80%)of insoluble polysaccharides are chitin, including beta-glucans bound onto chitin or protein.
• Polysaccharides can support a wide range of actions in the human body.
• They have been shown to have immunological, neurogenic, cardiovascular, and microbiome effects, as well as numerous other nourishing qualities.

Matcha Tea: A Potent Source of Theanine

• More than double the catechin EGCG properties compared to standard green tea.
• More than ten times the polyphenolic tannin levels compared to standard green tea.
• A compound that has proven itself to be one of the most effective substances in both single-dose administration and long-term use for supporting a healthy mood, mindset, and outlook.
• L-Theanine is an amino acid primarily found in various forms of tea. However, while there are many trademark raw material supplements of this potent amino acid, Matcha is the primary source of L-Theanine.
• An average cup of high-quality matcha at a 2-gram serving size contains 40 milligrams of Theanine and 70 milligrams of caffeine.
• Research has shown that Theanine does cross the blood-brain barrier and demonstrates anti-stress effects ( and perceived stress) on stress markers like blood pressure, heart rate, cortisol, and brainwave activities. One of Theanine’s impressive qualities is its ability to generate a relaxed-alert feeling from both long-term and single-dose usage via several mechanisms of action.
• It enhances the production of the relaxing neurotransmitter GABA, which then affects the soothing effects of dopamine and serotonin. Increasing Alpha brain waves, which supports deep relaxation and alertness

Miscellaneous Facts about our Organic Cognitive Cacao and Coffee with Matcha, MCTs & Mushrooms

 

Suggested Use: Mix 2 tablespoons (16g) with 8–12 oz of water (adjust to taste), or add to your favorite drinks or smoothies. Enhance the flavor with sweetener, milk, or creamer as desired. Enjoy hot or cold.

Ingredients: Cacao Powder (Processed with Alkali)*, MCT Oil Powder* (MCT Oil*, Acacia Gum*), Instant (Soluble) Coffee Powder (Arabica)*, Red Reishi Mushroom Extract Powder* (Red Reishi Mushroom Extract*, Maltodextrin*), Lion’s Mane Extract Powder* (Lion’s Mane Extract*, Maltodextrin*), Matcha Green Tea Powder*, Bourbon Vanilla Flavor*. *Certified Organic

Certifications: Certified USDA Organic.

Origin: Blended and packaged with care in Florida, USA.