These energy balls are great for when you feel hungry and need some natural nourishment (rather than a short-acting caffeine fix or a refined sugar snack which can both actually decrease energy levels in the long term). You can have them in the morning with yoghurt and berries, as a quick snack, an afternoon treat or a post-workout snack.
They are packed full of protein and good fats and you can mix and match the ingredients to your preference. They are super quick to make and last up to a week in the fridge so you can make a batch up at the weekend to last you all week. You can also freeze them and just get one out the night before.
Maca Powder
Maca is a Peruvian root vegetable traditionally used for increasing energy and stamina. It is full of amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, calcium and magnesium. It also is a rich source of B vitamins. It has been clinically researched and shown to regulate hormone levels and reduce hot sweats.
Ingredients:
• 2 large handfuls of mixed nuts (or use just one type e.g. almonds
or walnuts)
• Large handful of seeds - I love sunflower seeds but you can use most types
• 3 tbsp coconut oil
• 5 tsp Maca powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder
Instructions:
1. Add coconut oil, maca, cinnamon and ginger to a food processor or nutribullet.
2. Blitz.
3. Add seeds and nuts and blitz again.
4. This should form a squidgy mixture. You may need to scrape and blend several
times.
5. On a chopping board, roll into small bite-sized balls.
Optional: You can roll in either raw cacao powder, sesame seeds or shredded coconut to add variety.
6. Place in container in the fridge to set - this should take half an hour.
7. You can also freeze and make up in batches.
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References
HO Meissner, H Reich-Bilinska, A Mscisz, B Kedzia. Therapeutic Effects of Pre-Gelatinized Maca (Lepidium Peruvianum Chacon) used as a Non-Hormonal Alternative to HRT in Perimenopausal Women - Clinical Pilot Study. Int J Biomed Sci. 2006 Jun;2(2):143-59. PMID: 23674976; PMCID: PMC3614596.