Iron Boosting Bliss Balls (Origins from Ayurvedic Medicine)

In Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient holistic healing system originating from India, the use of natural ingredients plays a vital role in promoting overall well-being. Two such ingredients that hold significant importance are ghee and dates. Both ghee and dates have been revered for centuries in Ayurveda for their numerous health benefits and their ability to restore balance and vitality to the body.

Ghee, also known as clarified butter, holds a special place in Ayurvedic medicine due to its rich nutritional profile and therapeutic properties. It is believed to nourish and lubricate the body, making it an essential ingredient in Ayurvedic cooking and medicinal preparations. Ghee is considered to be a sattvic food, meaning it promotes clarity, calmness, and a harmonious state of mind. It is highly regarded for its ability to support digestion, enhance absorption of nutrients, and promote a healthy metabolism. In Ayurveda, ghee is often used as a carrier for herbal remedies, allowing the beneficial properties of herbs to penetrate deep into the body.

Similarly, dates, particularly the Medjool variety, are widely valued in Ayurvedic medicine for their therapeutic qualities. Dates are considered a natural sweetener with a cooling effect on the body. They are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a nourishing addition to the diet. According to Ayurveda, dates possess a grounding and stabilizing energy, providing a natural source of sustained energy and promoting physical strength. Dates are also known for their high iron content, which is beneficial for supporting healthy blood circulation and maintaining optimal iron levels in the body.

While the iron content in ghee is relatively low, its combination with dates can create a synergistic effect, boosting the overall iron intake. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may have an increased need for iron, such as those with iron-deficiency or women during menstruation.

In Ayurvedic medicine, the combination of ghee and dates is often utilized to create balanced and nourishing preparations. This powerful duo is known for its ability to provide sustained energy, enhance digestion, and support various bodily functions. Whether incorporated into traditional Ayurvedic recipes or used as individual remedies, ghee and dates offer a holistic approach to wellness by promoting harmony, nourishment, and vitality in accordance with the principles of Ayurvedic medicine.

Recipe

Ingredients:

- 140g almonds

- 160g pitted Medjool dates

- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

- 50g ghee (clarified butter)

- Shredded coconut (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. Place the almonds in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Make sure not to over-process, as you still want some texture in the protein balls.

2. Add the pitted Medjool dates to the food processor and blend with the almonds until the mixture starts to come together.

3. Add the vanilla extract and ghee to the mixture in the food processor. Process again until everything is well combined and forms a sticky dough.

4. Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Using your hands, knead the mixture to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Take small portions of the dough and roll them between your palms to form small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

6. Spread the shredded coconut on a plate. Roll each protein ball in the shredded coconut, pressing gently to adhere the coconut to the surface.

7. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

8. Once the protein balls have chilled, they are ready to be enjoyed! You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

These protein balls also make a great snack or post-workout treat, even if you don’t need to boost your iron levels, providing a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars from the dates. Enjoy!

Dr. Fatima x