Protein is an essential part of any diet, especially for pregnant and breastfeeding moms. However, when you’re constantly on-the-go, it can be hard to find wholesome snacks that include protein. Many snack foods on the market today, while they may include protein, are filled with added sugars and chemicals to prolong their shelf life.

So what’s the solution? The good news is that you can make healthy, wholesome snacks that are perfect for taking on-the-go right from your own kitchen! One of our favorites to make here at Majka are DIY Protein Energy Balls, using our Nourishing Lactation Protein Powder!

 

This simple and healthy no-bake protein energy balls recipe is perfect for easy snacking while you’re out and about. With ingredients like chia seeds, almond butter, and our Majka Nourishing Lactation Protein Powder, these energy balls will keep you satisfied for hours, and your whole family will love them too!

The Recipe 2 cups coconut flour 1/4 cup Majka Protein Powder 1/4 cup shredded coconut  1/4 cup chia seeds  1/2 cup almond butter (or nut butter of your choice) 1/4 cup almond or coconut milk 2 tablespoons MCT oil 2 tablespoons organic vanilla extract Directions In a food processor, combine all ingredients until a dough forms (it should be somewhat sticky in consistency). With your hands, roll the mixture into balls using about 1 tablespoon of dough. Repeat this until all of the dough is rolled into balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. These bites can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or frozen.

 

The Benefits

So what makes these energy bites the perfect on-the-go snack? Here are some of the benefits:

Protein
Proteins break down into different amino acids, which are often referred to as the building blocks of life! They are needed by the cells in our bodies as they work to provide energy, hormone production, maintain muscle, support immune health, and more. For all of these reasons, it’s recommended that we have protein with every meal. This is why our Majka Nourishing Lactation Protein Powder is a key player in this recipe! With 13 grams per serving, it will sustain your body and keep you fuller, longer.

Healthy Fats
The almond butter and MCT oil in this recipe are both amazing sources of healthy fats. There are a lot of misconceptions about fats, but it’s important to know that healthy fats (unsaturated fats found in foods like avocados, nuts, etc.) are a major fuel source for your body. The truth is that we can’t live without these ‘good’ fats, so they’re not something to be afraid of!

Fiber + Sustained Energy
Chia seeds are an amazing source of fiber, which can help keep you fuller longer, provide healthy prebiotics, and keep blood sugars stable. In addition to this, chia seeds are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which helps raise your “good” cholesterol and protects against heart attack and stroke. By adding in a dash of chia seeds to this recipe, you’ll reap the many benefits of these small but mighty seeds!

Healthy Heart + Digestion
In addition to being a healthy fat, MCT oil has also been proven to protect heart health because it can help decrease cardiovascular disease and mortality risk in general due to helping lower the odds of becoming obese. Additionally, MCT oil has been shown to improve digestion and nutrient absorption because it’s beneficial for balancing bacteria in the gut microbiota.

Lactation Support
Last but certainly not least, this recipe is amazing for pregnant and nursing moms because it includes our Majka Nourishing Lactation Protein Powder, which is rich in nutrients that your body heavily relies on at this time. Fenugreek, organic ginger root, turmeric root extract, and other natural ingredients found in Majka’s scientifically formulated lactation blend can have positive effects on breast milk supply.

If you decide to make these DIY protein balls at home, we want to see! Let us know in the comments below and also be sure to tag us on Instagram at @lovemajka #lovemajka!

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