by Kerrie Bross

So the kids are back in school now and probably feeling a little run down. Boost their energy with snacks that are high in protein and loaded with antioxidants to support the immune system during stressful times, like back-to-school.

Why are these such great snacks?

Aside from being tasty balls of goodness, they are loaded with raw, dried fruits to give an energy  boost. Dates are easily digested, so the energy comes quickly, and they are loaded with gut healthy fiber. They also contain vitamins A and K, as well as B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid) and B6 (pyridoxine). Dates are good sources of some important minerals and trace minerals – potassium, iron, copper, magnesium and manganese. Oh, and lets not forget there are also antioxidants in dates.

Cranberries have long been known for their wealth of antioxidants. But, did you know they are also an excellent source of vitamins B5, C, E and K? And they have manganese and copper. Fiber and anthocyanins are other notable nutrients in cranberries.

Whenever you want an antioxidant boost, turn to Perfect Acai. These berries have the highest ORAC value (measure for antioxidant power) of all fruits and vegetables! But, that’s not all, they are also good sources of vitamin A, fiber, monounsaturated fats, iron, calcium, and anthocyanins.

Nuts, seeds and collagen give these Protein Energy Balls the protein to keep you going for the long haul, along with many other benefits. Chia seeds contain essential fatty acids and vitamins A, B1 (thiamine), B3, E & D. They are an excellent source of calcium, and contain other minerals and trace minerals such as phosphorus, iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc and potassium. And protein.

With over 82% of the RDA in a 1/4 cup serving, sunflower seeds are a powerhouse of vitamin E! They are also great sources of vitamins B1, B3, B6 and B9 (folate). There are plenty of minerals in these babies as well. You’ll find copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese and phosphorous. And more protein.

Almonds are no slouch in the health department. They are loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, the same kind found in olive oil. They are also excellent sources of  vitamins E, B2, and B7 (biotin). The minerals present are manganese, copper, magnesium, phosphorous and molybdenum, an essential trace mineral cofactor that helps the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. And lets not forget protein.

Pumpkin seeds also pack a powerful health punch. They are a good source of vitamin E and an excellent source of zinc, and other minerals like magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, copper and iron. They are a great source of antioxidants as well. And even more protein.

The mega protein boost in these protein balls comes from the addition of Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen. Each scoop contains 10g of protein from pasture-raised, grass-fed cattle. Super healthy! Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the human body and is great for bones, joints, digestion, and many other things.

With 4 – 5g of protein in each ball and natural sugars, they are the perfect snack for after lunch when the day starts to drag and your energy starts to lag. I’ve been eating a couple for a quick and easy breakfast!

Fruit & Nut Protein Balls

Ingredients
1 C organic pitted dates
6 Tbs organic almond butter
3 11g scoops Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen
5 3g scoops Perfect Acai Powder
1/2 C raw organic pumpkin seeds
1/4 C juice sweetened organic cranberries
1/4 C raw organic sunflower seeds
1 Tbs chia seeds

Directions
1.Combine the dates, almond butter, Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen and Perfect Acai Powder in a food processor on high until well mixed. The consistency should be a bit moist so it will form good balls that stick together. If it is dry, add more almond butter until desired consistency.
2. Add the pumpkin seeds, cranberries, sunflower seeds and chia seeds. Mix on low just long enough to combine without completely obliterating the nuts and fruit.
3. Form into balls and enjoy!

Makes about 20 depending on how you roll them. I think 2 is a good serving size. Nutritional breakdown for each ball – protein over 4g, fat about 5g, total carbohydrates about 9g with roughly 6g natural sugars and about 2g fiber.

Double Chocolate Protein Balls

Ingredients
1 C organic pitted dates
6 Tbs organic almond butter
3 11g scoops Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen
5 3g scoops Perfect Acai Powder
1/2 C unsweetened cocoa powder
2 Tsp real vanilla extract
2 Tbs honey
1 C raw organic slivered almonds
1/2 cup Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips

Directions
1. Combine the dates, almond butter, Perfect Hydrolyzed Collagen, Perfect Acai Powder, cocoa powder, vanilla extract and honey in a food processor on high until well mixed. The consistency should be a bit moist so it will form good balls that stick together. If it is dry, add more almond butter until desired consistency.
2. Add the almonds and chocolate chips. Mix on low just long enough to combine without completely obliterating the nuts and fruit.
3. Form into balls and enjoy!

Makes about 20 depending on how you roll them. I think 2 is a good serving size. Nutritional breakdown for each ball – total protein about 5g, fat about 7g, total carbohydrates about 13g with roughly 9g natural sugars and about 3g fiber.