Lunch: 5-Minute Protein Truffles

Recipe by Camilla V. Saulsbury These protein "truffles" are so ridiculously easy that I feel somewhat silly adding them to this collection. Then again, my super-simple, silly recipes are often my most popular. They are certainly favorites in my repertoir

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey, Agave

Health benefits of 5-Minute Protein Truffles

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Agave, a sweetener derived from the core of the agave plant, is frequently highlighted in nutritional discussions due to its notably low glycemic index (GI) rating. With a GI score of just 17, it stands out from many other natural sweeteners and sugars that often have higher GI values. For those unfamiliar with the term, the glycemic index is a measure that ranks foods based on how significantly they raise blood glucose (sugar) levels after consumption. Foods with a lower GI value are absorbed more slowly and cause a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels, which is particularly crucial for individuals managing conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

Ingredients

1/2 cup natural, unsweetened nut or seed butter (e.g., peanut, cashew, sunflower, or tahini)
3 tablespoons honey, agave nectar, or pure maple syrup
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
2/3 cup lightly packed all-natural, sweetened vanilla whey protein powder

Instructions

Mix the nut or seed butter, honey, and salt in a medium bowl until blended. Add the protein powder, stirring until completely combined (mixture will be firm).
Protein powders vary in terms of their dryness. Hence if the mixture seems too wet, add a bit more protein powder, or some ground oats or flaxseed meal, until the mixture comes together as a dough. If the mixture seems too dry, add some milk (nondairy or dairy) or water, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture comes together as a dough.
Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mixture into your hands and shape into 1-inch balls.
If desired, place one or more of the suggested coatings in small shallow dishes. Roll each ball in the coating, gently pressing to adhere. Place the balls in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.

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