Chocolate Fruit Balls
A person’s metabolism converts the food consumed into fuel for energy which is needed to power everyday walking, thinking and movement. You can help jump-start your metabolism by eating more often throughout the day.
Food is fuel and your body responds to what you put in it. When you overload the body with processed foods high in salt, sugar and white flour, digestion becomes sluggish. When you eat whole foods such as fruits/vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, the body works at its best. Here are a few tips to help your body work at full efficiency:
• Eat regularly and don’t skip meals, especially breakfast.
• Maintain good energy by eating a meal or snack every 3 to 4 hours.
• Be sure to include lean protein at meals for long-lasting energy.
• Keep active and develop an exercise routine.
You can still enjoy a treat now and then; just remember to keep it in moderation. Fueling your body properly will help you feel your best and be at your healthiest.
Chocolate Fruit Balls
Makes 12 servings
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup nuts (almonds, cashews or walnuts)
• 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons flax meal or oat bran
• 1/8 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons honey
Mix the sesame seeds and cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside for rolling.
Put all other ingredients in a food processor, and slowly add in honey.
Roll into small balls and coat with the sesame seed mixture.
Store in a sealed glass container in the fridge.
Nutritional information per serving: 156 calories, 10 grams fat, 18 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams protein, 2 grams fiber
Emily DelConte, Kali Garges and Meghan Martorana write this column and are registered dietitians at Evolution Pilates and Nutrition in Bristol. They adapt the recipes from public domain or copyright-free recipes.
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