I need candy!

I am sure you know the "I-need-candy"-feeling! Else I would actually not accept you as a normal human being. When I have this feeling I just start eating almonds or fruit, often it eases the feeling, but sometimes I need REAL candy. Sugar, calories, fat: it is like my body is hungering for it. So, I figured out what to do instead of buying candy at the supermarket and feed myself with all that shit, knowing it is not good for my body, knowing I will feel weak afterwards and knowing this would not have a good effect on my health. Well, I figured out how to give me full satisfaction: "Dark-chocolate crunchys" What you need is:

• Amaranth
• Oats  
• Chia-seeds 
• 85% chocolate 
• Agave syrup 
• Sugarfree cocoa powder

Mix oats, chia-seeds and amaranth together, adding a bit of the agave syrup. Add as much as it needs to stick together. Don´t add to much, keep in mind it comprise a lot of sugar. While you do this, let the chocolate melt. As soon as you are finished, start forming some small heaps with the amaranth-oat-chia- mass. Afterwards pour the melted chocolate over the smal heaps. You can now add some sugarfree cocoa powder on the top, if you want to, but it is no must. Place your crunchys in the fridge an wait 30 minuets before you start eating, so the crunchys have a chance to even get crunchy! 

Why this is a good alternative to marketable candy:

Amaranth is a very rich source of protein and this protein is also very bioavailable. The protein in amaranth is more digestible than other grains and has been compared to the digestibility of milk protein. Amaranth is also contains calcium, magnesium, and copper. It is also a good source of zinc, potassium, and phosphorus. These minerals build strong bones and muscles, aid hydration and boost energy. 

Oats contain a good balance of essential fatty acids, which have been linked with longevity and general good health, and also have one of the best amino acid profiles of any grain. Amino acids are  proteins that helps optimize the function of your body. Oats contain essential vitamins, they also contain zinc, selenium, copper, iron, manganese and magnesium. Oats also make you feel full longer which helps with weight loss.

Chia seeds were once used by the aztecs, as a pre-hunting meal, because they energize you. Chia seeds contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, these fats are important for brain health. Besides, chia seeds also have a great source of proteins and does not contain any cholesterol.

85% chocolate has a high cocoa content and contains a number of vitamins and minerals that can support your health such as: Potassium, copper, magnesium and iron. The fatty acid profile of cocoa and dark chocolate is excellent. The fats are mostly saturated and monounsaturated, with small amounts of polyunsaturates. Still this does not mean that you should consume a lot of chocolate because it also contains sugar. One or two squares a day would be fine!

Agave syrup, as compared to other sweeteners, has a desirable low-glycemic index. This means that when consumed, it won't cause a sharp rise or fall in blood sugar. Agave contains inulin, which is a type of fructan or fiber that has many health benefits. Studies suggest that inulin can be effective in weight loss because of its low impact on blood sugar and its ability to increase satiety and decrease appetite. Inulin is also associated with lowering cholesterol, reducing the risk of certain cancers, and increasing the absorption of nutrients, such as isoflavones, calcium and magnesium. 

All those benefits mixed together are creating a tasty and almost healthy alternative to common candy! AMEN!

xoxo