Good Monday morning Food Athletes!

Try this fast and easy recipe to kick-start your week. These Almond Date (and a bunch of other amazing stuff) Matcha Balls are filled with all your dense nutrient needs, essential antioxidants and most definitely flavor so you actually can enjoy eating healthy.

Each bite contains massive health benefits:

Fiber
Healthy Fats
Naturally sweetened
Energy via Matcha
Protein
Antioxidants

Matcha Almond Energy Balls

1 Cup Raw Almonds
1 Cup Soaked & Pitted Dates
2-3 Teaspoons Matcha Powder
1 Tablespoon Coconut Butter
1/4 Cup Shredded Coconut
1 Teaspoon Coconut Oil- melted
Shredded Coconut for rolling
Matcha Powder for rolling

First, mix almonds and dates in a food processor. You may have to do this in a few small batches depending on your mixer. I do not mind having some bigger pieces of almonds in the balls for a crunchy bite, so mix to your desired consistency.
Add remaining ingredients.
Roll into balls. Mix the reserved shredded coconut and matcha powder. If you mix in the blender, the coconut will turn a vibrant green, FYI. Roll in powder first then the coconut as an alternate way to coat the balls. You should have at least 12 from this batch.
Keep in the fridge or preserve for longer in the freezer.

Food Athletes, I know navigating through this twisty-turny world of health can be confusing, but it does not have to be. So today, this minute, Monday, the beginning of your week, take a moment to remind yourself why you love your body and want to give yourself the nourishment you deserve.

You got this! Happy Monday!

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Love Your Body,

xo Jessi (Your Food Athlete Cheerleader) xo

Chia Seed Pudding with fresh Summer figs.  Photo Cred Minimalist Movement — Chia Seed Pudding with fresh Summer figs. Photo Cred Minimalist Movement

If this sexy little seed could talk, it would have a South African accent. Wanna hear more? This power food dates back to the Aztecs. Oh yeah, and the Mayans. That is way back in case you were wondering. Like pyramids. Fast forward to present time, and this trendy treat is an ingredient in just about every breakfast bowl, smoothie, and nutrition fitness bar.

Let's take a closer look as to why this functional food measures up to even the most super of super.

1) Calorie Friendly = Fiber Friendly- Portion distortion is running rampant. Our tummies cannot keep up with our brain, or vice versa. Foods like chia that help signal satiety will inspire you to put your fork or spoon down when you feel full. NOTE: don't confuse this with dieting. Having a working knowledge of what portions are and how to control your own is pivotal when practicing THE FOOD ATHLETE strategies. (click HERE for details on working with me to find your perfect strategy.)

2) Free Radical Fighter- Antioxidants: We need them in our feed schedule. Toxins that are either put in our body intentionally or the kind we breathe when we are living "out there" walking about town need to be combated. Chia, although not the obvious antioxidant because it is so tiny contains many properties to help repair the damage caused by free radicals.

3) Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals- Yep, hard to see with the naked eye (well my eyes cause I wear glasses) these cute seeds are packed with nourishment:

Fiber
Protein
Calcium
Fat
Carbs
Potassium
Copper
Zinc
Magnesium
Vitamins A,B,E,D
Omega ALA

4) Energy Efficient- Oh yeah, talking metabolism again. Boost energy efficiency simply by adding Chia to your healthy lifestyle. For one it is so easy to digest. LISTEN UP, ATHLETES! I hear this common issue with so many of my fitness and nutrition clients. "My stomach hurts when I eat early in the morning then work out." Problem solved, sneak some chia in a smoothie and have some sips pre workout, then drink the rest post for recovery. Done and done. Two, you need the energy to burn energy and as you have just seen these little guys pack a punch in the nutrient department. Burn baby burn.

5) Disease Preventative- Diabetes Type 2: When a study(s) is done and proven effective in preventing diseases and cancers that are when "health benefit" talk gets exciting. Decreasing inflammation specifically in the adipose tissue in our belly is just the beginning of the good news. The concise The Food Athlete Cliffs Notes on chia and diabetes is that research and studies have shown fascinating outcomes in reducing insulin resistance by helping to regulate blood sugar. Yay!

Click HERE to check out these Coconut Chia Overnight Oats- at my Lets Cook Together page.

Want more food fun? I just did a piece on coconut for my friends over at Beyond Yoga on the benefits of coconut which featured this chia-coconut with grilled mango recipe. Click HERE for the post.

For a variation ditch the oats and just do the chia pudding on its own and add your favorite toppings. I am loving beautiful summer figs at the moment.

Thanks for stopping by Food Athletes! You made it, Hump Day, the week is still half-full of adventure and new food experiences. Enjoy!

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Love Your Body,

xo Jessi (Your Food Athlete Coach) xo