No Bake Energy Bites

Summer is the time to make meals easy and cool, especially in Arizona.  We're not particularly motivated to heat up the kitchen when it's approaching 120 degrees outside.  My nursing mama friends out there will especially enjoy this recipe because it includes oats, a galactogogue.  Thank you to our recent college grad and wonderful intern Kelsey for this delicious treat!

*M*

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I have really been in a dessert mood lately. I have been making Megan’s GF Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate Bars on a regular basis and they have been satisfying my sweet tooth! I decided to test out a new dessert/snack from Gimme Some Oven that incorporates sweet items such a chocolate but is also very nutritious.

I have always liked chia seeds but never realized how good they were for you until about a year ago. This ancient super-seed has more omega-3 fatty acids than salmon, ounce for ounce.  Omega-3 fatty acids build new cells and regulate various processes of the body. Unfortunately, our bodies cannot make omega-3 fatty acids, so we must consume them. When I find myself consuming high amounts of essential fatty acids, I always see a difference in the growth of my hair and nails. This is because they can aid in beautiful hair and nails. This seeds can also contribute to heart health. In addition, chia seeds can help curb your appetite and add fiber to your diet.

You can have these as a snack between meals or even as a dessert like I do!  

No Bake Energy Bites

Ingredients:

1 cup dry oatmeal (I used old-fashioned oats)

2/3 cup coconut flakes

½ cup peanut butter

½ cup ground flaxseed

½ cup chocolate chips or cacao nibs

1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Assemble ingredients.

Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl until thoroughly mixed.

Cover and let sit in fridge for approximately 30 minutes.

Then roll into balls and store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to a week.

Makes about 20-25 energy bites.

  

Enjoy!

Kelsey