I’ve been off refined sugar for about six months now. It’s a difficult road to recovery, but well worth it in terms of how I feel and the deleterious effects that sugar seems to wreak on my skin (think inflammation). As a recovering sugar fanatic (I once went to the dentist and was told that I had 13 cavities and a root canal–in one visit!), I need something, anything sweet before I go to bed. I’ve tried a bunch of alternative snacks, but since I discovered these beauties, they’ve become my mainstay. They are extremely simple to make, require few ingredients, are healthful, and satiate my sweet tooth. They include not one, but THREE superfoods: raw cacao powder, goji berries, and maca powder. Here’s are some fast facts on each of these three superfoods.
- Raw cacao powder: (Choose raw cacao powder over regular because it is minimally processed.) High in antioxidants (flavonids) and has antidepressant effects.
- Goji berries: are among the highest antioxidant-containing foods. They are thought to fight heart disease, defend against cancer and diabetes, strengthen the immune system, improve vision, and enhance the complexion.
- Maca powder: is a Peruvian root reported to increase stamina and help the body better adapt to stress. They’re also reported to increase libido, but I’m not going there…
Best of all? Because they are so quick to make, there’s instant gratification.
Jen Maan in Amman 
I can second how good these treat are . Plus sweets without the guilt is a great thing. What a country. I have been directed to cut down on sugar and this helps. Now if you can move closer all will be forgiven. Joe p aka dad
This will be a winner for Mary! If I can find the ingredients, and can afford them! We are going to try this one Jen, Thanks!!!
It requires an initial investment, but totally worth it.
They sound yummy!
Hi Jen,
Well, after reading your concise description detailing the simplicity of making these Maca Balls and recognizing the benefits of not having refined sugar I was compelled to venture out and obtain the ingredients for the ‘healthful” concoction. Little did I know the availability and costs associated with such a task! Yet overcome and adapt I did, producing successfully 20 Maca balls and a mess on my hands that took quite an effort to remove!
I wanted to include a picture of the prize accomplishment, but cannot attach to this site.
Mary especially wants to thank you for sending this delicious recipe, as she is the major benefactor of the results.
Thanks Jen
Dick and Mary
Hi, Dick and Mary,
I’m SO glad you made the initial investment because they are totally worth it. I got the picture from my mom and they look great, but a little on the wet side. Looks like your dates were really soft. My last batch was like that too–if the dates are soft, use less.
As for the investment, I get my dates at Costco and on occasion (when I hoard), I can find Hemp seeds at Costco too–at half the price of Whole Foods.
If you like these, you’ll love my homemade Larabars and SuperFood Fudge. I’ll post those shortly.
All the best,
Jen
Hi Jen, I live in Amman (Jabal Weibdeh) and would love to know where you get raw cacao powder – have been searching for a few months but no luck. I was actually searching for it online again now and that’s how I stumbled across your blog. I quit sugar a few months ago too and am enjoying being free of the white stuff. Cheers, Tiffany.