A hassle-free, protein-packed snack for on-the-go

We’re on Day 10 of our 21 Day Detox and our group is going strong. I fully disclosed at the start that I would not be doing the complete detox with them since it would be silly and downright unhealthy to try to “detox” while breastfeeding. Right now my body needs all the extra fat, protein and calories to grow another small human!

I would be using the time, however,  to come to terms with some of my own vices that have taken hold of me since pregnancy. The big one, as you know if you have been following my blog, has been sugar.  As a new mom it’s all to easy to depend on sugary sweets for quick energy or a reward at the end of a long day. Or a glass of wine to unwind.

So along with processed sugar (except for a few bites of dark chocolate here and there), I vowed to cut out processed carbs (“white” foods like flour and rice), alcohol (oh how I miss an occasional glass of red wine!) and gluten (adios whole wheat bread and pasta). I’ll would also be adding in lots of veggies, healthy fats and protein along with daily movement and meditation.

Well we’re half-way there and I’m feeling downright awesome. And disciplined. And strong. We went to a party last weekend and I munched on apples and juice while others had champagne and cake. Chris and I even went to a concert last night and I didn’t have even a sip of beer. I can look at a bottle of wine and move-on, knowing I’ll be having a celebratory glass on Day 21.

I’m in the zone. My sugar cravings are gone.

Instead, I’ve been having fun experimenting with treats made with all-natural ingredients. After all, who wants to give up sweets completely? Let’s be honest. It’s one of our most fundamental desires in terms of taste.

So I came up with these little nut clusters the other day. They’re sugar-free, gluten-free and packed with protein (I discovered the link between sugar cravings and protein some months back). Perfect for when you’re on -the-go and starving after a workout. Throw them in the freezer or fridge and they’ll keep just fine. Have one or two for breakfast or as an after-dinner treat.

And feel proud of yourself for showing sugar who’s boss.

 

Nut Clusters

1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped

1/2 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts etc.) chopped

1/2 cup oats

1/2 cup nut butter (almond, peanut or cashew)

2 tbsp maple syrup (or agave)

1 tbsp cocoa powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in bowl and mix well. Form into balls and place onto parchment paper. Refrigerate until cool. About 10-12 clusters.