Coconut Cacao Protein Balls

I satisfy my sweet tooth with these raw protein balls. Easy, nutrition packed little gems. Get creative with the ingredients, play  and best of all enjoy guilt free goodness! Ingredients1 cup almond flour1 scoop of your favorite vanilla  protein powder1/4 cup sesame seeds1/4 cup chia seeds1/4 cup raw cacao powder1/2 cup raw organic agave nectar- (I've also tried maple syrup grade B)pinch of sea salt DirectionsStep 1 Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.Add in agave nectar or maple syrup slowly and stir until a paste-type consistency.Scoop small spoonfuls and roll in the palms of your hands into a small ball shape.Serve plain, or roll in  cacao nibs and coconut flakes or in(sesame seeds, sunflower seeds or chia seeds) Get creative!Refrigerate and they will become firmer. The next day or 3rd day is the best if they stay that long!!Makes about 20 protein balls. *adapted from Women's Health Christmas recipes Enjoy! Claudia ~ Health Facts about the Ingredients:    Chia Seeds:excellent source of healthy omega fatty acids – 700% more than salmoncontains 500% more calcium than milkmore antioxidants than flaxseeds or blueberriesexcellent source of dietary fiber with only 6gcontains 20% of easily digestible protein  Cacao Nibs:an excellent source of antioxidantscontains one of the highest dietary sources of magnesiumone ounce has an amazing 9 grams of fiberone ounce contains 4 grams of proteinone ounce contains 6% of daily value of iron Sesame Seeds:high in calcium at 35% daily valueexcellent antioxidantdaily value of 44% manganese and 31% magnesiumdaily value of 73% copper and 29% ironhelps to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol  Cacao:contains over 300 compounds including calcium, protein, magnesium, copper, zinc and ironsuper high concentration of antioxidantscontains 4 different neurotransmitters that promotes a positive outlook and acts as an anti-depressantcontains essential fatty acids which help to decrease appetitecan help to decrease blood pressure  Almond Flour:helps to regulate cholesterol and blood pressurea natural energy boosterloaded with protein, calcium and fiberhigh in antioxidantscan help to reduce the risk of heart disease Coconut:Helps prevent obesity by speeding up metabolism, providing an immediate source of energy with fewer calories than other fats. People who consistently use coconut products, report a stronger ability to go without eating for several hours with no affects of hypoglycemia.High in dietary fiber supplying  an impressive 61%. Since the body cannot digest the dietary fiber in coconut, no calories are derived from it and it has no effect on blood sugar.Low glycemic index (GI) measures how fast available carbohydrates in food raise blood sugar levels. Coconut fiber slows down the release of glucose, therefore requiring less insulin to utilize the glucose and transport it into the cell where it is converted into energy. Coconut also assists in relieving stress on the pancreas and enzyme systems of the body, in turn, reducing the risks associated with Diabetes.Reduces sweet cravings and improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose. The healthy fat in coconut slowsdown any rise in blood sugar and helps to reduce hypoglycemic cravings. Improves digestion and many of the symptoms and inflammatory conditions associated with digestive and bowel disorders, by supporting absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids while also providing beneficial dietary fiber.It's a quick energy boost utilized by the body to actually produce energy, rather than to store it as body fat. It supports improved endurance during physical and athletic performance. As well, it promotes healthy thyroid function and helps to relieve the symptoms of chronic fatigue.In addition, coconut contains No Trans-Fats, is Gluten-Free, Non-Toxic, Hypoallergenic, and also contains Antibacterial, Antiviral, Antifungal, and Anti-parasitic healing properties. Coconut helps to aid and support overall Immune System functions.