Last month was my mom’s birthday, and given that she’s into all things health and fitness these days, I couldn’t get away with gifting her a box of chocolates or a bottle of booze (because I did that last year!). Instead, I made her a variety box of energy balls. She teaches up to 6 Zumba classes a week, on top of her day job and being a property owner and landlady. So I know energy is extremely valuable to her. Rather than store-bought options, I wanted to make treats that are super healthy, full of natural and real ingredients, and homemade, because what mom doesn’t like something their kid made for her!
The trip to the store to make these was surely a heavy one – peanut butter, dried fruits, nuts, coconut, cocoa powder, extracts, and TONS of dates – went into these energy balls. Luckily, there were a few too many to fit in the box for her, so I got to keep some behind for my own enjoyment! And because they’re so tasty, I wanted to share this roundup of energy balls with all of you. These vary in type: I wanted a mixture of flavors that spanned chocolatey, fruity, nutty, and salty. All you need are a few ingredients for each of them, a strong food processor, and some patience! Because these use real food, you can keep them in the fridge up to a week, or do what I have: store them in the freezer, and take out one or two a day to thaw for the next day’s refueling. Make a big batch and you’re good for a whole month!
Pina Colada Energy Balls – these taste just the drink! I dare you not to eat the “batter” straight from the bowl. But trust me, their flavor only improves over time. Two things I did differently: replaced the macadamia nuts with cashews, and added 1/4 tsp coconut extract.
Peanut Butter, Coconut & Chocolate Chip Balls – this type of energy ball is one of my favorites, mostly because they are held together with peanut butter 🙂 Instead of peanuts, I used mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
Lemonade Protein Balls – I love how juicy these balls are 😉 they’re bursting with lemon flavor, so it’s hard to eat just one. I used coconut oil instead of coconut butter, and added 1/4 tsp lemon extract to up the lemony goodness.
Thin Mint Protein Balls – It’s hard to imagine a protein ball that tastes like a favorite Girl Scout cookie, but this one nails it! Make them now – you won’t regret it.
Fig Newton Balls – These are the simplest of the lot, made with just walnuts and dried figs! And yeah, they totally taste like the classic cookie 🙂
Pumpkin Pie Energy Balls – These balls taste like a bite of autumn, but are perfect for any time of year. They use real pumpkin puree, which is pretty awesome. Instead of pumpkin seeds, I used chopped almonds.
In line with the healthy theme, I wanted to share with you a review of Plantar Fasciitis Compression Foot Sleeves that SLS3 recently sent me! I’m still new to compression gear, but I already know these foot sleeves are pretty great. I’ve realized that when lacing up my running shoes, I LOVE the feeling of the tight shoes on my feet. That pressure is actually comforting. Of course, after a long run, all I want to do is kick off my shoes and peel off my socks, to let my feet be free. But as soon as I’m out of the shower, that desire for compression returns. I pull on these compression foot sleeves and feel instant relief.
There are many more benefits to these sleeves, too:
- They come in a range of sizes, so whether you have big or small feet, you’re all set! And trust me: I have big feet, and these fit me like a glass slipper….or what Cinderella surely would’ve preferred to her glass slippers!
- Whether you’re heavy into sports or just on your feet a lot, these sleeves will reduce muscle fatigue.
- Medical professionals designed the sleeves, so they are perfect for foot and ankle support, which helps stimulate the healing process and increase blood flow to speed up recovery.
- They’re actually comfortable! I’ve worn them alone, under socks, and even with socks and shoes to leave the house. The material is thin enough that they aren’t bulky at all.
- The fabric is moisture wicking and breathable – exactly what your tired feet need! You’ll stay dry and oder free 🙂
I received a pair of Plantar Fasciitis Compression Foot Sleeves from SLS3 to review and no additional compensation for this post. All opinions are my own!
Eat, Drink, Be Healthy! 