September is World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. With that being said, there is no time like the present to focus on fueling our brains. While it is important to always be supporting brain health through nutrition, we want to put an extra emphasis on it this month.
A brain power food: walnuts! Have you ever noticed that walnuts look a lot like a brain? Coincidence? We think not!
Walnuts are full of brain-boosting omega-3’s which have been studied to help fight Alzheimer’s disease. They are also full of antioxidants which help to fight against inflammation and protect cells.
These sweet Brain-Boosting Bites (i.e. date and nut energy balls) are a nourishing way to get something sweet into your day!
Ingredients
- 2 cups walnuts (any nut can be used, but we like to use walnuts!)
- 1 cup shredded, unsweetened coconut
- 2 cups soft, pitted Medjool dates
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 100% cacao powder
Instructions
- In a large food processor, process the walnuts and coconut shreds until it becomes a crumbly mixture.
- Add in pitted dates, vanilla, and sea salt. Process it until sticky. Tip: Pinch some of the mixture together between your fingers to see if it sticks – if yes, you’re good! If not, process for a little longer.
- Optional step: add in 1-2 tablespoons of unsweetened cacao powder and process again. Alternatively, roll the bites in cacao powder once they’re finished.
- Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the dough and, using your hands/fingers, press into a ball and place in a storage container.
- Place in fridge for 30 minutes before serving. Best stored in the fridge. Enjoy!
