I am sure that by now you have heard of hemp seeds and the many health benefits, and if not, let me blow your mind.
Hemp seeds contain over 30% fat meaning they are exceptionally rich in two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3).
They also contain gamma-linolenic acid, which has been linked to improvements in skin conditions such as eczema!
Hemp seeds are a great protein source, as more than 25% of their total calories are from high-quality protein which is higher then both chia seeds and flaxseeds, which only provide about 16–18%.
When it comes to hemp seeds mineral content, they are a great source of vitamin E and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron and zinc.
This is only a snap shot of the many health benefits of hemp seeds, and I hope it encourages you to start incorporating them into your diet. I love to add a spoonful to my morning smoothie or on top of my porridge!
These balls are about as nutritious as an afternoon snack can get. Full of protein, fibre and healthy fats all rolled into a DELICIOUS chocolatey morsel!
Hemp and Cacao Energy Balls
1 cup pitted dates
1/2 cup hemp seeds I used Fair Foods Aussie hemp seeds
1/4 cup cacao powder
1/2 cup coconut flakes
2 tsp cashew or almond butter
2 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp rice malt syrup
1 tbsp coconut oil
50g chocolate of choice for melting I used Alter Eco !
- Place dates in a heat proof bowl into the microwave for 30 seconds to soften
- Place dates and all other ingredients into food processor and blend until sticky
- Roll into balls and place into the fridge to harden
- Drizzle with melted chocolate of your choice if you want!
These are great. I have made the recipe a couple of times now and always do a double batch. I am currently awaiting the arrival of my second baby, and have frozen the bliss balls in portions to defrost in the fridge during the hungry postpartum time. I took some out to taste test and they’re just as delicious!