Pumpkin Protein & Energy Bites
Pumpkin is an excellent source of bone building nutrients
Recipe for building strong bones by Dr. Claudia Tamas
Pumpkin has numerous health benefits! Pumpkin is an excellent source of magnesium and zinc, both of which play an important role in building bone density. It is also packed with vitamins and minerals to help boost your immune system. It contains fiber, potassium, and vitamin C which helps support heart health. It is also a good source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that gives orange vegetables their color, which can help reduce your risk of chronic disease.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of oats
- 1/2 cup coconut flakes, unsweetened
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup dried apricots or raisins, chopped
- 2 Tbsp. maple syrup, optional
- 3 Tbsp. total of chia seeds, ground flax seed and/or hemp seeds
- 2 Tbsp. pumpkin seeds, slightly chopped
- 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
Use a 1 Tbsp. scoop to form mixture into balls
Roll balls into additional coconut flakes (optional)
Refrigerate until set and enjoy!