Vivienne Wang - PCOS & Fertility Dietitian

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Almond Coconut Energy Ball

Is it surprising how one snack can go by so many names? Whether you call them protein balls, energy bites, or simply "balls," they're a fantastic option for easy, nutritious snacking. While store-bought protein bars have their place, making your own allows for customization and is more economical.

Rolled oats ensure a smooth texture without baking, while liquid nut butter blends easily. Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup add the right touch of sweetness, and using a plant-based protein powder not only increases the protein content but also adds delightful flavors like vanilla or chocolate.

Adding this homemade protein ball recipe to a snack routine can offer several benefits for individuals with PCOS. The high protein content, derived from plant-based protein powder or collagen, can help manage blood sugar levels, reducing insulin spikes which are a concern in PCOS. Using ingredients like nut butters and oats provides a good mix of healthy fats and fiber, supporting satiety and hormonal balance. Moreover, controlling the ingredients helps avoid additives and sugars that might exacerbate PCOS symptoms, making it a wholesome choice for managing the condition effectively.

This base recipe is just the beginning—experiment with different mix-ins to discover new flavor combinations and make each batch uniquely yours!


PREP TIME: 10 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 10 minutes

SERVINGS: 24

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups old fashioned rolled oats

  • 1 cup natural almond butter

  • ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

  • 2 scoops, about 50-60 grams chocolate protein powder

  • 1-2 Tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut

Steps:

  • Place oats, almond butter, honey, protein powder and shredded coconut in a large bowl and stir to combine.

  • Getting the mixture to combine takes a little arm muscle and it may seem too thick at first, but it will come together as you keep mixing. I used my hands to knead the dough near the end and that seems to help.

  • Once combined, use a small cookie scoop to scoop and form the dough into balls.

  • Store in a covered container in the fridge or freezer.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ball (Chocolate PB) | Calories: 104kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 2mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g