Casa Velas, a boutique adults-only hotel in Puerto Vallarta, launches their latest innovative amenity: Taco Therapy. Assisting in anxiety and stress relief, improving sleep quality, and boosting antioxidants, Taco Therapy is the latest culinary wellness experience at the hotel available for August in celebration of National Wellness Month. The new tasting experience features four curated tacos that provide holistic benefits for the mind, body, and soul. All tacos are served in lettuce taco leaves. Lettuce contains a compound called lactucarium, which has sedative properties. It can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
- Anti-anxiety taco: This taco is made with asparagus, avocado, salmon, and spinach. Asparagus is a good source of folate, which plays a crucial role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. The nutrients from avocados support healthy brain function and contribute to reducing symptoms of anxiety. Salmon is a fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA that have been found to have mood-stabilizing effects and can help reduce anxiety symptoms. Spinach is packed with essential nutrients such as magnesium, which plays a vital role in regulating neurotransmitters and promoting relaxation.
- Dream taco: Ingredients highlights include carrots and chicken breast. Carrots are a nutritious vegetable that contains several vitamins and minerals, including potassium which plays a role in muscle relaxation and sleep. Chicken breast is a good source of protein and contains the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating sleep.
- Stress-relieving taco: This option includes tuna, spinach, garlic and sesame seeds. Tuna is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, for reducing inflammation and promoting brain health. Garlic contains compounds that some studies suggest may help modulate the body’s stress response and promote a sense of relaxation. It also has potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can support overall well-being during times of stress. Sesame seeds are a good source of nutrients, including magnesium, which can help regulate stress levels and promote a sense of calm.
- Antioxidant taco: This sweet taco is made with buñuelo (fried dough fritter), chocolate ganache, and berries. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, is rich in antioxidants known as flavonoids. Flavonoids help fight against free radicals in the body, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Consuming chocolate ganache made with dark chocolate can provide a source of these beneficial antioxidants. The berries include rich compounds such as anthocyanins, flavonols, and vitamin C, which possess strong antioxidant properties.