Energy bars are packed with nutrients and flavor. They are high in fiber and unsaturated fats. There is also protein in the nuts/seeds and nut/seed butters.
Energy bars are great for massage therapists who need a boost of energy between massage sessions. Pick your favorite nuts, seeds, cereals and nut butters to customize them to your taste buds—and try a different variety each time for a unique treat.
Recipe for HEAT Energy Bars
Ingredients
– 1 cup of chopped almonds, peanuts and/or sunflower seeds
– 2 cups of raisins, dried cranberries and/or dried blueberries
– 1.5 cups oats
– 2 cups of any high-fiber cereal of your choice (if larger pieces, break them up)
– ¼ cup ground flaxseed
– ½ cup all-natural peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower seed butter
– 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
– ½ cup honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla
Steps
1. Combine the first five ingredients and mix. Set aside.
2. Combine the nut or seed butter, brown sugar and honey. Microwave for one minute or until bubbling. Remove from microwave and stir in vanilla.
3. Pour the hot mixture over the dry ingredients and toss until the dry ingredient is covered.
4. Press firmly into a lightly greased 9-inch by 13-inch pan. If the mix is sticking to your hands to spoon, place wax paper over the mixture while pressing down firmly.
5. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Cut into 25 to 30 bars. Store on counter for up to five days. These bars freeze very well, so it may be wise to freeze half the batch.
Lauren Schmitt is a registered dietitian and certified personal trainer specializing in individual and corporate wellness, eating disorders and weight management. Schmitt currently owns her own business, Healthy Eating and Training Inc., where she counsels individuals and gives them the tools to lead a balanced, healthy life through nutritious eating and physical activity. If you need nutrition counseling, visit Healthy Eating and Training Inc.’s website, http://heatforhealth.com. For tips on living a healthy life, visit www.facebook.com/HealthyEatingAndTraining.