Homemade Omega-3 Power Balls: A Nutty Boost for Your Brain

Recently, I stumbled upon a fascinating article about the link between cauliflower consumption and lung health. The article discussed the fact that many toxins enter the body through the respiratory system, and cauliflower, which contains powerful antioxidants, is excellent for cleansing, strengthening, and improving lung function. While reading it, I couldn't help but think about how much the shape of cauliflower resembles that of the lungs.

Hashem has placed many hints in our food indicating the body parts they could benefit. Just like a slice of carrot mirrors the look of an eye, a red tomato has four chambers resembling the heart, pumpkin looks like the pancreas, beans like the kidneys, celery to bones, and the examples continue.

Consider the walnut. A walnut resembles the brain with its shape and is covered by a hard shell reminiscent of the skull. There’s a reason why Hashem designed nuts with a tough shell. As discussed in the article on fatty acids, these fatty acids are delicate and sensitive, so it's crucial they're protected by a hard, dark shell. Walnut is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, known to help brain nerve cells communicate better, enhance mental sharpness, memory, and focus. Numerous studies discuss the connection between attention/concentration disorders and their treatment with Omega-3 supplements. I'm not a fan of supplements. Why take something synthesized in a lab when you can pick it right off the tree, ready and available from Hashem? Of course, when necessary, it's good to have the option to buy a concentrated pill from the pharmacy. But if there's a choice, it's better to make it at home.

Recipe for Chocolate Balls Rich in Omega-3

Grind in a food processor:
1 cup walnuts
1 teaspoon chia seeds – also rich in Omega-3.
3 dates – with natural sugar that's excellent for the brain.
3 tablespoons silan (ensure the ingredients list only dates)
2 tablespoons coconut oil (you can read about its wonders in the fatty acid article)
3 tablespoons cocoa – discussed in the chocolate article, cocoa contains a stimulant called theobromine and small amounts of a neurotransmitter called anandamide, thus attributed with properties that sharpen thought and cognitive function.

Let children roll chocolate balls and coat them in coconut flakes.

Refrigerate for a few minutes – and you've got a fantastic afternoon snack you can pack up and take to the park or playground.

Here's another recipe for another kind of ball, equally tasty:

Energy Balls

Mix well 1/2 cup of any nut butter (I love peanut butter or almond spread) with 1/4 cup honey, until you achieve a smooth mixture.
Add to the mixture:
1 cup oatmeal
1/4 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup coconut flakes
1 teaspoon ground flax seeds
You can and should add to the mixture chopped dried fruits (apple, plum, apricot – preferably organic and without added sugar or preservatives).

Form balls and refrigerate to set.

You’ve got light, fun, and most importantly, tasty energy balls.

A great addition to both types of balls – pumpkin seeds.
Today, you can buy raw, shelled pumpkin seeds, which should be stored in the fridge. If small children enjoy these balls, be sure to grind the seeds into a fine powder, and only then add to each of the recipes.
One or two tablespoons will suffice.

Pumpkin seeds are rich in many nutrients, like B vitamins, including folic acid, and essential minerals, especially zinc. Thus, they're exceptional against winter illnesses, as they strengthen and support the immune system, fight intestinal parasites, and are good for skin and hair health, among others. Pumpkin seeds are also rich in proteins, mainly an amino acid called tryptophan, which, combined with a good carbohydrate like those found in fruits, helps produce serotonin – an important hormone for relaxation and a good mood.

Tried it? Loved it? Let us know in the comments.
Have your own fun ball recipes? Share them in the comments.

Please God, in the next article, we'll continue with more healthy and fun afternoon snacks.

Wishing you lots of health,
Chan Tovi