By Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Bounce into February full of energy with these tasty, nutritious energy bites. These are a healthy snack that can be enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack mid morning, after/between a work-outs-avoiding ‘spiking’ your blood sugar levels with quick fix sugar.
Oats are an excellent slow release carbohydrate (which help to keep you full for longer). They help to balance blood sugar levels which is an important aspect of general health but can also impact positively on other health areas such as fertility and menopause. Oats also are high in Beta glucan. Beta glucan is one form of soluble dietary fibre that is strongly linked to improving cholesterol levels and boosting heart health. Ginger is great for our overall health too, as it contains many essential nutrients and vitamins including vitamin C, B5 and B6, along with a good amount of the minerals Potassium, Manganese, Copper, and Magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps in controlling heart rate and blood pressure. Ginger is used to help alleviate gastrointestinal issues, including nausea and plays a role in reducing inflammation in the body, boosts the immune system and is thought to protect against certain cancers such as colorectal cancer. Dark chocolate – 70% and above cocoa provides some good antioxidants.
Ingredients (makes around 20 energy bites)
250g Porridge Oats
1 inch of stem ginger
180g Honey (local if possible)
250g Peanut Butter (this acts as a binder – if allergic to peanut butter you could use 1tbsp of nutmeg oil instead (this is a spice so check not allergic)
Sprinkle of Dark chocolate chips (70% Cocoa solids and above)
How to make:
Chop the stem ginger into very small pieces and then combine the ingredients together in a mixing bowl and give it a good stir. Divide the mix and roll into balls and place onto a plate or baking tray which has been covered in foil.
Place into the fridge or freeze for a minimum of 2 hours, or overnight for a more solid result.
Keep refrigerated or frozen in an air tight container ready to enjoy whenever you are ready!.