One of the earliest indications that are hormones are imbalanced is lack of energy, increased weight and low moods. In my nutritional therapy practice, many people I work with often feel an energy slump either mid-morning or mid-afternoon. This is often related to a drop in sugar levels in our blood stream. It is at these times that we often reach for the biscuit tin, the bag of crisps or the vending machine chocolate. Can you relate? I know I can. This was the way I lived, and it was driving poor energy levels, increasing my waistline and affecting my moods. And the symptoms didn’t stop there, being a woman I also had all sorts of hormonal issues. Oh boy, did I get a surprise when I decided to change my eating habits. One of the first things I changed was what I ate during the mid-morning slumps. I swapped my sugary, covered in chocolate snack for these yummy energy balls.
They are a combination of the chocolatey taste I love without the highly refined sugar contents and because they contain nuts or seeds, they are a good source of protein which is what my body really needed. Refined sugar is a major cause of increased stress and weight gain. The energy balls are sweetened instead with dates and maple syrup which contain many beneficial vitamins and minerals. Dates are also high in fibre, which is good for gut health, and high in antioxidants, which help to remove harmful toxins from the body. The protein and fats in nuts and seeds are great for balancing blood sugars, and are therefore, beneficial in losing weight and maintaining energy levels.
Why not try out my simple and delicious energy ball recipe for yourself?
Energy Balls
Ingredients Cup chopped stoned dates Cup of seeds and/or nuts ground or chopped 3 tbsp of cacao, cocoa or carob powder 1 tbsp of maple syrup 3 tbsp of water
Method
Put all ingredients into a food processor except the water.
Turn on and add 1 tbsp of water at a time.
Blend together until the mixture forms a ball. Mixture should be soft but not too sticky.
Take a spoonful at a time and roll into a ball.
Then roll in cocoa or desiccated coconut. Best placed in the fridge for ½ hr until firm, but don’t worry if can’t wait that long.
One serving is 2-3 balls. Dates although containing natural sugar is still a high sugar contents and should be eaten in moderation.
Marie Jarvis, Nutritional Therapist / Nutritionist, BANT