No-bake citrus energy bites
Looking for a little pick-me-up? These energizing, tasty bites defy their size when it comes to packing in a wallop of health benefits! With a dose of psyllium husk fiber—or even better, a full serving of ORGANIC INDIA Orange Psyllium Pre & Probiotic Fiber, for each, these naturally sweet treats are perfect for a quick snack or even breakfast on-the-go. From trail fuel to dessert—the difference is in your mindset in the moment and how you communicate it.
Speaking of communication. Emotions are high, and many of us are relaying our thoughts and feelings in less personal formats, most of the time. I’ve had a couple of experiences recently that have created pause to reflect on—well, just how useful it is to pause and reflect when it comes to communication. One worked itself out with difficult emotions and acknowledgements and doesn’t belong here. Another, though, I hope can offer something along the lines of some comic relief to call up when needed. It has to do with masks.
Masks, as we all know, have become unexpectedly politicized, and nerves are high strung around them. It’s easy to judge and feel judged. Our family chooses to wear them, though outdoors we tend to go with Buffs that we can pull up and down easily from the sides. It’s minor discomfort, though for running it can become rather claustrophobic, particularly as it heats up. On long runs, I’ve been choosing sticking to very quiet dirt roads where I rarely see a soul. It’s mostly just ornamentation, really, except for one small stretch near home that can be bustling. A few weeks ago, however, it transformed handily into a box worth of tissues.
I was 6 miles out on a 12-mile run when I felt some blocked nose discomfort. No one was nearby, so I did it—the icky “farmer’s blow”. In an instant, I got the worst bloody nose! Oh, was it flowing. I had to use the Buff! Oh, was there flow. It soaked the Buff. Blood stained my face and hands. It drenched my waist belt with water bottle. And all I could think was: 1) Thank goodness for the Buff! 2) Thank goodness for this quiet road; and 3) Imagine if I ran my way through a busy trail like this!? My thanks was soon transferred to my darling husband and Chef F, who came to the rescue with fresh supplies for the run back.
All this is just to say, I felt refreshed appreciation that morning for the value of taking time to explain point of view and elicit explanation in genuine conversation versus the kind of back-and-forth volley we tend to get thrust into through social media. The most important part of talking is listening. But back to these bites: we went camping last week, and you can bet I threw a batch of these together. Not only are they super easy to make and to vary, they’re tasty and good-for-you, too. Supporting a healthy gut is key to maintaining overall health, year-round. Psyllium is one of many versatile ways of nourishing your digestive system and gastrointestinal tract in simply delicious ways. Not only is psyllium a natural prebiotic fiber, each daily dose delivers two billion CFUs of probiotics for a healthy microbiome. A small but satisfying snack couldn’t be more power-packed. Hope you get to get remote-ish in nature and breathe soon, too—and enjoy some of these! xo
No-bake coconut citrus energy bites
Makes approximately 15
½ Cup Medjool dates, pitted (about 5)
¼ Cup orange juice
½ Cup almond butter
1 Cup organic gluten-free oats (whole or quick cook are fine)
5 Tablespoons ORGANIC INDIA Orange Psyllium Pre & Probiotic Fiber
2 Tablespoons orange zest
¼ Cup unsweetened shredded coconut, plus extra for rolling
Pinch sea salt
Additional addends of choice, such as dark chocolate mini chips, chia seeds, orange zest, currants or golden raisins
In a food processor, process the dates, orange juice, and almond butter to form a smooth paste. Transfer to a bowl.
Add the oats, ORGANIC INDIA Orange Psyllium pre & Probiotic Fiber, coconut, sea salt, and any addends desired.
Form into small balls. Leave as is or roll in additional shredded coconut and store in the fridge. Enjoy!