CACAO
DOSING GUIDE
CACAO
DOSING GUIDE
CONTENTS
We already mentioned a list of go-to doses in our article What is a Cacao Drink?
Here’s a deeper take around dosing cacao and what should be taken into account when exploring and deciding for a dose that suits you in the moment.
NATURE'S WORK
First of all, do keep in mind that each cacao is and feels different. Genetics, terroirs, weather, process… Any change in these parameters induces a change in the end-product.
The ratios of active compounds present in cacao are therefore different from one origin to another but also from one harvest to another. A pretty good reason to experiment with different kinds of cacaos and understand how differently they behave.
CONTEXT & ENVIRONMENT
Drinking cacao offers a unique opportunity to observe how we respond to food in different life contexts.
Yet its effects may vary depending on your body’s constitution, the time of day, and the context in which you consume it. Just like coffee, drinking cacao first thing in the morning in a calm setup on a Sunday won’t have the same effect as having a cup at work at 4:00pm.
A calm and focused setting might make a low dose feel more potent, while a distracted environment could reduce the perceived intensity of a higher dose.
It is therefore a good practice to take some time to acknowledge your state of mind as well as your context before having a cup, as it’ll help you choose for which kind and which dose feels right. In other words, before jumping into the preparation of your cup, turn off your automatic mode if it’s on and tune in to feel what’s good.
DOSING GUIDE
These numbers are based on widely accepted perceptions among regular cacao drinkers. However, the best way to determine the right dose for you is to explore how you respond to cacao.
1. LOW DOSE
→ Anything below 15g
Perfect to get you started in the morning, awaking your senses and your drive by providing a gentle and sustainable energy. It’s also a great pick-me-up during the day, typically a good mid-afternoon boost.
2. “Go-to” or daily dose
→ 15-20g
This keeps you in the zone without overwhelming you. It’s an excellent addition to your routine, pairing well with various activities. Whether it’s kickstarting your workflow, accompanying your reading, or supporting physical practices, it’s a reliable choice for focus and stamina.
3. Medium dose
→ 20-30g
This dose can lift your mood and create a “bubble-like” sense of presence. It’s an excellent companion for heartfelt conversations and deeper connections with yourself or others.
4. High or ceremonial dose
→ Anything above 30g
Great for introspection, it can help you tune into your feelings and sensations. For this, it’s best to set aside dedicated time and space to fully appreciate the experience. It is perfect for rituals, deep meditation, or celebrations.
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While cacao’s effects can be explored intelectually and scientifically—examining which molecules enhance focus or support creative flow—the real magic lies in leaving room for personal exploration. Ultimately, the most rewarding part of drinking cacao is embracing what it has to offer in the moment.
