Silver's Power Balls

I’ve found gold! Well, not really, but something just as good. MACA. It’s a radish-looking root that grows in the Andes of Bolivia and Peru.  Back in the day, Incan warriors would eat it in preparation for an intense battle, as it was known to increase stamina and strength.  It is also an adaptogen, which helps the body regulate and adapt to stress (google it). It’s perfect for any athlete, physically active, or stressed individual.  I've been consuming it the past few days and have seen a significant difference in my energy level. 

This recipe goes out to my best friend Lauren.  She’s running the Philly Rock-N-Roll half marathon this weekend.   How she has the strength and stamina to run for hours straight always blows me away.  I unfortunately will not be there in person to cheer her on due my attendance at the world’s largest health coaching conference in NYC, but a will be there in spirit (GO LAUREN!) 

If you’re looking for some energy, put down the coffee, Gatorade and/or power bar and grab what I’ve named Silver’s Power Balls. These balls are raw, vegan, gluten-free.

Silver’s Power Balls

Need:

¼ cup Maca Powder (I use Navitas Naturals which you can get at Whole Foods)

¼ cup Almond Butter

1 cup dates (about 8 – don’t forget to remove the pits!)

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp sea salt

¼ cup chopped almonds

¼ cup unsweetened coconut

Do:

Soak dates in water for about 10 minutes.  Drain water and place in food processor or vita mix and blend into a sticky paste.  Add remaining ingredients and processes until a thick sticky dough as formed (it should be sticky enough to roll into small balls.) If dough is too sticky, add more chopped walnuts. If dough is too dry, add a little water a teaspoon at a time. Roll into little one-inch balls and enjoy.  Refrigerate leftovers.   If you’re not a fan of almond butter you could try replacing it with peanut butter. Just make sure it’s organic as peanuts are the #1 pesticide item.

Photo and Recipe adapted from Navitasnaturals.com. Other photos via Jess and Lauren.