Energy balls (or Energy Bites) are a popular new food trend across the UK, but what exactly are they and what is so special about them?
If you are trying to lead a healthier and more balanced lifestyle, but don’t have much time on your hands, this could be the perfect nutritious snack alternative for you.
You make energy balls by mixing ingredients in a bowl, commonly nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, together with tasty flavour enhancers such as cacao powder or peanut butter, all bound together typically with syrup or coconut oil. They are an eco-friendly snack as they require no baking, and no wasteful packaging is necessary, just a Tupperware box or old biscuit tin to transport them. They are quick to make and they freeze well, so they are suitable for those of you that are always on the go.
What are the benefits of Energy Balls?
They are full of nutrients, high in protein, with healthy carbs, fats, and fibre. This helps to support lean muscle mass, it provides you with a sufficient energy boost, and aids with weight control. Energy balls are free from additives or sweeteners and are completely raw, meaning that the nutrients and enzymes in the ingredients remain intact, providing your body with a more natural source of energy.
When should I eat them?
- They release energy slowly, so they are ideal to eat pre-workout to help sustain yourself throughout your session.
- This also makes them a guilt-free energy hit for in between meal times, leaving you feeling full for longer and therefore less likely to seek out unhealthy energy drinks or sweets.
- Equally, after a workout your muscles are highly absorbent, making energy balls a great snack to replenish your post-workout body.
Trying to find a recipe for Energy Balls online can be challenging, there are tons of recipes and reviews online, which can be a bit overwhelming and not very helpful.
We recommend a company called Energy Ball Recipes https://energyballrecipes.com/. The company was set up by a self-confessed energy ball fanatic, Victoria, who initially just wanted to share her own recipes online. They sell recipe kits that provide you with enough ingredients to make 30 energy balls. They feel that the kits save you from any expensive experimentation and helps avoid unnecessary leftovers. The packaging is plant based, fully compostable and recyclable. If ordering within the UK you can buy one energy ball recipe kit for £15, or you can get a monthly subscription for £14 a month. You can also get subscriptions for 3, 6 and 12 months.
On their website they share their new recipes for free, as well as recipes from readers and celebrities, such as Deliciously Ella, all in one place. They use both healthy ingredients and also some slightly naughtier foods. There are classic recipes and more wacky concoctions, and because the balls only consist of a few ingredients the recipes are easily adaptable to be gluten-free, sugar-free, dairy-free and vegan.
