Being a breastfeeding mom is an incredibly rewarding, yet challenging, experience. Between the sleepless nights and the frequent feeding sessions, it's essential to keep your energy levels up. That's why I wanted to share this delicious and nutritious recipe for lactation energy balls, perfect for those moments when you need a quick and nourishing snack.
Ingredients
To whip up these lactation energy balls, you'll need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural smooth peanut butter
- 1/3 cup protein powder
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons brewers yeast
- 1/3 cup ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Preparation Steps
Making these energy balls is as simple as it gets:
- Combine Ingredients: Place all of your ingredients into a large bowl.
- Mix Well: Mix together with a spoon until the ingredients are well combined.
- Form Balls: Use your hands or an ice cream scoop to form small balls.
- Chill and Enjoy: Refrigerate the balls for about 30 minutes to firm them up. Now, they're ready to eat whenever you need a quick pick-me-up.
Store your energy balls in an air-tight container, in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them in an air-tight container/bag in the freezer for up to three months.
Benefits of Lactation Energy Balls
Quick and Easy Nourishment
As a nursing Mama you need around 500 extra calories per day to maintain your milk supply, so having quick, easy and nourishing snacks available is essential.
It's a popular opinion that oatmeal, brewers yeast, healthy fats and protein can help increase a mother's milk supply. I can't say for sure if it works and there is very little research on this but if it helps to keep Mama fueled and energized that's enough!
The no-bake recipe means you can whip these up in just a few minutes, and store them in the fridge for easy access throughout the week.
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
- Oats: Known for their potential to boost milk supply and packed with fiber.
- Brewers Yeast and Ground Flaxseed: Both are popular among nursing mothers for their potential lactation-enhancing properties.
- Protein Powder and Peanut Butter: Provide the necessary protein to keep you feeling full and energized.
- Healthy Fats from peanut butter and chia seeds are crucial for maintaining your energy levels and overall health.
Real Talk
Breastfeeding is one of the most rewarding experiences for a mother, but it can also be incredibly draining—both physically and emotionally. I understand firsthand how demanding it can be, I was only able to breast feed my son for about 8 weeks until I started supplementing with formula. I tried everything and seeked professional help but nothing seemed to help me. If that's you too, I feel you!
Ready to fuel your body and boost your energy? Give this recipe a try and feel free to share it with other moms who might benefit. If you make these make sure you tag @momday.studio so we can share!
Happy Snacking! 🌟
