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Simple and delicious, Coconut Caramel Energy Bites

Another week, another column, another visit from Little Miss Belle.This time I have packed her back off to bed and apparently she will stay there. I “pwomise” mummy, she whispered as I tucked her back in.Wow this one really does know how to shake my resolve!Fortunately I am pretty confident she knows how loved she is, and just in case there was any doubt, Naughty Nana is back to shovel on the affection too.This time she is accompanied by Roo Roo — good news in every respect apart from the naughty factor.The pair of them together are trouble. Gin & tonics, crisps, bacon and eggs, chocolates — it’s all very British. We’ve even been threatened with Spam risotto.If you don’t know what Spam is, you probably don’t want to. Just like all the internet rubbish that ends up in your spam file at work, edible spam is just as bad.Worse probably, when you really think about what gets stuffed into that wartime tin.However, confession — despite a lifelong aversion to any mystery meat that might contain suspect body parts, I have eaten it and liked it.Watching “Food, Inc” though was the end for me.I am by no means vegetarian, but I only buy organic or otherwise ethically farmed animal products these days.If you’re interested in the whole story, delve into the notes section on my Facebook page.Fortunately, there are several organic/ethical lines here — with Niman Ranch and Applegate leading the pack.In fact Niman Ranch do a great ham steak that I used to make the whole family a non-spam, spam risotto. And it actually got approved, phewf!After dinner, these Coconut Caramel energy bites also got the nod.If you don’t like dates, don’t be put off, as everyone I know who hates dates still loves these!By using Medjool dates you get a soft texture and a caramel flavour that is totally to die for. I use them before or after a work out, but also have one to satisfy my sweet tooth when it shows up uninvited.Miles and Lindos both have great Medjool dates.I use the “Let’s do organic” coconut from Supermart or Miles too as it’s sulphite free and actively nourishing vs. the mainstream baking variety.You will also need quite a powerful processor for this, although some magic bullets are up to the job if you half the quantity.Once you have your ingredients together, this is incredibly simple and so delicious.It really is worth it! Check my Facebook page for step by step pictures if you need more detail.Coconut Caramel –Energy BitesIngredients (makes 24):12 large Medjool dates (pitted and chopped)¼ cup shredded coconut2 dessert spoons almond butter1 ½ tsps extra virgin coconut oilpinch salt (optional)Method:1. Whizz it all up in a processor until the ingredients form a dough-like ball around the blade.2. Roll the mixture into small balls and then roll in extra coconut.3. These are best served chilled so set in the fridge or the freezer if you are in a hurry!The advice given in this article is not intended to replace medical advice, but to complement it. Always consult your GP if you have any health concerns. Catherine Burns BA Hons, Dip ION is the Managing Director of Natural Ltd and a fully qualified Nutritional Therapist trained by the Institute for Optimum Nutrition in the UK. Please note that she is not a Registered Dietitian. For details, please go to www.natural.bm or call 236-7511.Join Catherine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nutrifitandnaturalnutritionbermuda