Age-Defying Coconut Maca Superfood Balls

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Good Evening and Happy Thursday!

I am full of gratitude this evening.  I am just wrapping up my 15-Day Detox with a group of 50 + detoxers who have put their heart and soul into the process.  My group completely rocked the detox and not only did they lose weight but they reduced inflammation in their bodies, gained abundant energy. have clearer skin and are feeling AMAZING!  The best part is that they are EMPOWERED to learn what foods makes their unique body thrive and those that don’t.  I have to say, we also had A LOT of FUN!

My whole family participated in the detox and it has been quite a bonding experience.  My kids did a modified version of the detox and my hubby and I dove in full force.  I lost a few lbs, feel lighter and brighter and my energy and mood is amazing.

I am so super proud of my husband.  He had a few rough days but persevered and made it through the detox with flying colors.  This is what he learned from the experience:

“I wasn’t a textbook perfect detoxer by any stretch, but I avoided gluten, dairy, nuts and eggs, and ate more fruits and vegetables. I also rediscovered how much I enjoy smoothies and fresh juice. I’m feeling more energetic physically, and I have newfound mental clarity. I had a few grains along the way, but not too many (a couple of servings of gluten-free oatmeal and another of quinoa). What I take away from this detox is confidence that I can become much more mindful of my eating going forward, which is a great gift for the New Year. I will start eating eggs and nuts again, in that order in terms of transition. But I’m vowing to make bread and dairy products a rare, special treat. After three detoxes, I’ve really determine d that I feel better and think more clearly when I’m not consuming dairy and gluten on a regular basis.”  Steve White

This is music to my ears!  Love that man.

I also had several detoxers lose  9 lbs in 11 days.  9 seemed to be the magic # this time around.  I detox 4 times a year and I learn new things each time.  So cool.    Here is what a few more detoxers had to say:

“Before the Bliss Method 15-Day Detox, I was feeling sluggish, bloated, and lacking in energy. Through the program, I found some new foods that I love, cooked some amazing food at home, felt completely satisfied after every meal without any negative effects, had more energy, and lost weight. It was a great experience, and not too daunting a task. You will not starve, and you will love the food!”  Janet Grayson, Portland, OR

“Abby is so supportive and knowledgeable, she was great through the process. Her recipes are delicious making the program a joy to follow! I feel amazing and think I will continue eating “The Bliss way!” Thank you Abby!!!! I’m looking forward to detoxing with you again!!!!”  Melissa Clark, Austin, TX

“I was truly nervous about this detox. Being a newbie, I assumed detox meant hunger, deprivation, and/or a painful liquid only diet process. While foods are eliminated from the diet temporarily, I didn’t feel deprived or hungry. I was also relieved that the accepted foods and recipes turned out to be something I could easily incorporate into my lifestyle with only a bit of advanced preparation. As a matter of fact, I’m certain that many of these recipes and new food varieties I’ve been introduced to will be included in our family’s permanent rotation in the future.” Renee Jewett, Lake Oswego, OR

“If you are thinking about trying this and not sure if you can do it….you CAN, and it is totally worth it. YOU are totally worth it!” Jen Massa Smith, Portland, OR

I love detoxing!  I know…. I am a geek!

So one of most favorite recipes of the detox were the superfood balls.  There is actually 5 different protein superfood ball recipes included the detox.

My absolute favorite one that I can’t live without having in the house at all times is my:

Age-Defying Coconut Maca Superfood Balls

Makes about 24 tbsp balls.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 cup raw almonds (or other raw nuts – walnuts and pecans are great variations)
  • 1 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 3/4 cup packed soft Mejool dates, pits removed (soak in water for a few hours if they are not soft enough)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon Grade B maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Maca powder

DIRECTIONS:

1. Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend until a course “dough” has formed.  You want a crumbly texture that sticks together when pinched.  If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until you reach the right consistency.  If it’s too wet, add a bit more shredded coconut.

2. I like to roll into small balls (about 1 teaspoon of dough each), but you can make bigger sizes if you wish.

3.  Serve immediately or store in a closed container in the refrigerator. Keeps for about 5 days in the refrigerator.

 These are so freaking amazing and my whole family love them.  I offer them to all of my clients and they just make me plain happy!

Okay, enough about detoxing.  I do have few fun things to announce.  I am working on a really cool project with my favorite photographer extraordinaire – Jessica Nichols of Sweet Eventide Photography.  We have been getting together and playing with food!  I have to share just a few of our photos.  Stay tuned.   In 2014, I am dedicating some time to get back into the kitchen and cook and blog more.  I miss that.  I love being busy but need to make this a priority!

In Health and Happiness-

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