Chocolate Date Balls

We refer to these as date balls at home but they are very chocolatey so I think the above name will do them justice.

A few years ago I discovered how unhealthy sugar was. I know that sounds silly and we all know that's it's not healthy but I really didn't understand the gravity of the effects of sugar consumption. And they are grave. Here is a list of ailments sugar is related to.

Increased risk of heart disease: This study finds the consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks to be associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease.

In this review, researchers state “Fructose intake is associated with increased risk of pancreatic and small intestinal cancers, and possibly others.” And also conclude that fructose promotes more aggressive tumor growth.

Elevated risk of diabetes: This study found that even small increases in sugar intake can lead to an increase in diabetes rates.

Accelerated aging: This review cites a study done on rats that concludes that: “long-term fructose consumption may accelerate the aging process.” And explains the metabolic processes by which it occurs.

The list goes on (nonalcoholic fatty liver, irritable bowel, obesity…), but I will stop here and go back to the date balls.

They are rich, easy to make, delicious and loved by people both big and small.

Chocolate Date Balls:

1 cup pecans (for higher nutrition and the elimination of phytates use soaked and dehydrated pecans)

1 cup pitted dates

5 tbsp cacao powder or cocoa

4 tbsp coconut flakes

3 tbsp maple syrup

¼ tsp salt

2 tbsp each cocoa and coconut flakes in a plate for rolling

Pulse pecans in food processor until thoroughly ground.

Add the rest of the ingredients and process until well combined.

Roll into balls and cover with cacao or coconut flakes.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.