Do your snack choices influence your cravings?
Chances are if you are routinely reaching a bag of chips, sweet treat, or caffeinated drink to soothe hunger or a dip in energy [especially in that afternoon slump], that what you choose to snack on is leading to more cravings. It’s a vicious cycle. The best way to end this and to improve your energy and mood dramatically is to opt for nutrient dense options. For example, snack on foods that are high in fiber, fat, and protein rather than refined carbohydrates. Today I have a recipe to share with you for that go-to option between meals that will better keep you satiated. These energy bites with chia, hemp, and flax seeds are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids [anti-inflammatory] and sunflower butter is rich in Omega 6 fatty acids. Read more about the amazing benefits of chia seeds here. Enjoy!
Energy Bites: a healthy snack
Lemon Chia
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/4 cup hemp seeds
1/4 cup flax seed meal
1/2 cup sunflower butter
2 tablespoons shredded coconut
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
Sprinkle of cinnamon
Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
[optional 1 teaspoon poppy seeds]
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and let sit 5 minutes. Add a splash of water as needed to reach thick and pliable consistency, like dough. Roll into 6-8 small balls then let set in the refrigerator at least 1 hour or freeze for 20 minutes. Store in glass container in fridge and enjoy as a nutrient dense and balanced snack!
Almond Cacao
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup hemp seeds
1/4 cup flax seed meal
2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons shredded coconut
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup cacao nibs
Sprinkle of cinnamon and pink/sea salt
Other Snack Ideas
Apple, celery + nut butter
Hard boiled egg, carrot + hummus
Unsweetened yogurt + berries
Pumpkin seeds + pineapple chunks
Epic or Chomps meat bar + fruit or avocado
Bell pepper slices + guacamole
Cucumber + avocado seaweed roll
Chicken salad lettuce wrap
Bone broth or veggie broth
The idea is to balance what you eat no matter the quantity. Getting in quality protein, fat, and carbohydrates is necessary for keeping all systems functioning well. An endless stream of high sugar, high carb, and highly caffeinated choices is not giving you the nourishment your body needs and keeping you in a high stress state [sympathetic nervous system]. The good news is you can choose to get off that rollercoaster!
Work with me to learn more and found out how to best support your body!
What do you think?
Let me know how you like these recipes and what your favorite healthy snacks are!
Be well friends!
In health,
Chloe Jane
