It's Time For Chocolate-Almonds Energy Snacks!
It's that time of the day when you're feeling like you really gotta have something sweet...
But wait! Last night, you promised yourself that starting tomorrow, you would make some smart, healthy lifestyle choices, such as getting in shape, losing weight, avoiding the candy jar at the HR office, and perhaps drinking less coffee.
Well then, this recipe for energy snacks is delicious and healthy, and it will keep you feeling great about yourself.

Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of unsalted, lightly roasted almonds (roasted almonds are easier
to digest).
- 1 tbsp of almond butter/tahini (tahini is more nutritious).
- 1.5 tbsp 100% raw cacao powder
- 5 Large Medjool dates
- 1 tbsp Organic oats
- 2 tsp Chia seeds
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- Unsweetened shredded coconut
Make Chocolate-Almonds Energy Snacks:
1. Blend all ingredients to a paste-like consistency.
2. Roll balls out of the mixture on a plate covered with shredded coconut.
3. Let it cool in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes and enjoy!
Storage:
It's best to keep your chocolate almond snack stored in your refrigerator.


What are the health benefits of all of these ingredients anyway?
Almonds
From a Chinese medical point of view, almonds are warm in nature and sweet in flavor and go in the large intestine, small intestine, and lung channels. Â
They moisten the lungs and thus are suitable for those experiencing lung dryness symptoms such as dry cough, asthma, dry skin, and anti-aging.
They moisten the intestines and assist with constipation.
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From a Western medical point of view, almonds contain protein, iron, vitamin E, B1, B2, B3, biotin, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, manganese, copper, potassium, riboflavin, antioxidants, and fiber.
They reduce cholesterol and protect the heart by preventing heart disease.
Because of their abundance of vitamin E and antioxidants, they help beautify the skin and make it smoother.
Since almonds are so filling, they can help us when we wish to keep a healthy weight.
Almonds can be a good source of "brain food" snacks as all nuts and prevent the deterioration of degenerative brain diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, and others.
Cacao
From a Chinese medical point of view,
Nourishes Heart Qi and Shen (Spirit):Â In Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), cacao is believed to nourish the Heart and calm the Shen (spirit). This can help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote overall emotional well-being.
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Tonifies Kidney Yang: Cacao powder is considered warming in nature, which can help tonify Kidney Yang. This may boost vital life force energy and combat fatigue.
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Moves Blood and Improves Circulation: TCM views cacao as entering the Liver meridian and promoting blood circulation. This can help alleviate stagnation and support overall vitality.
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Harmonizes Spleen Energy: Cacao embodies the sweet flavor associated with the Spleen in TCM when combined with a small amount of sweetener. This can help support digestive function and overall Earth element balance.
From a Western medical point of view,
Rich in Antioxidants:Â Cacao powder is packed with flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, protect cells from oxidative stress, and support overall health.
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Supports Cardiovascular Health:Â The flavanols in cacao powder have been shown to improve blood vessel function, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Enhances Mood and Cognitive Function: Compounds in cacao, such as phenylethylamine and theobromine, may improve mood, cognitive performance, and brain function.
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Balances Blood Sugar Levels:Â Cacao powder has a low glycemic index and may help regulate blood sugar levels, potentially beneficial for those managing diabetes or seeking to maintain stable glucose levels.
DatesÂ
From a Chinese medical view, dates are sweet in flavor, neutral in temperature, and non-toxic, goes in the stomach and spleen channels. Â
Dates support our digestive system and keep us satiated.
Dates nourish the blood, which is excellent for those with a deficiency.
Dates strengthen our energy and are great for tiredness.
They assist with dryness and cough.
They assist in building the muscles.
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From a Western medical point of view,Â
Dates are abundant with many vitamins and minerals, some people may call them super foods.
Dates support the health of our digestive system, assist with constipation, and reduce intestinal inflammation.
Dates are abundant in iron, which makes them great for anemia.
Boost energy - dates are high in natural sugars that help us feel energized when exhausted.
Dates are abundant with calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which makes them great for supporting our bones, treating osteoporosis, and supporting heart health and brain functions.
Dates are abundant with vitamins C and B and antioxidants, which have a good anti-aging effect and skin rejuvenation.
Relief hangovers.
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Chia seeds Â
Chia seeds are high in fiber, which is essential in maintaining our digestive system's health.
Chia seeds are abundant with magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which makes them beneficial for the bones and teeth.
They are abundant with omega-3 fatty acids that support our brain functions, energize us, and help clean our blood.
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Oats
From a Chinese medical point of view, oats are sweet and salty in flavor, neutral in nature, and go in the Lung channel.
They benefit our skin.
Help moisten the lungs - for cough and asthma.
Help better our digestive system - diarrhea.
Assist better sleep - for those who experience insomnia.
Lower blood sugar - great for diabetic patients.
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From a Western medical point of view, oats are rich in minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, phosphorus, and vitamins such as B6 and folate.
Oats benefit our heart's health and help lower cholesterol. Â Â
They assist itchy skin and are anti-inflammatory. Â Â
Benefits digestion. Â
Lower blood sugar. Â Â
Assist with asthma, perhaps because of its anti-inflammatory effects. Â
Citations:
Chen, P. W. (2009). Final exam: A surgeon's reflections on mortality. Vintage.
 Coração Confections. (2024, August 29). Benefits of Cacao Powder: A Nutrient-Rich Superfood. https://www.coracaoconfections.com/blogs/cacao-powder/benefits-of-cacao-powder
 Coração Confections. (2024, September 16). Cacao Powder vs Cocoa Powder: Understanding the Differences. https://www.coracaoconfections.com/blogs/news/cacao-powder-vs-cocoa-powder
Lions Heart Wellness. (2020, May 2). Five Spirits Healing Chocolates! Chocolate in Chinese Medicine. https://www.lionsheartwellness.com/post/chocolate-in-chinese-medicine
 Sacred Taste. (2023, October 15). Benefits of drinking raw cacao. https://sacredtaste.com/blogs/recipes/benefits-of-drinking-raw-cacao
 WebMD. (2023, October 17). Cacao Powder: Health Benefits, Nutrients, Risks, and Usage. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cacao-powder
 WebMD. (2025, January 12). Health Benefits of Cocoa Powder. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cocoa-powder