Coconut Seed Bars

A question that comes up in clinic often with my mums is ‘what snacks do you recommend between meals that will keep me full?’. And while I have some standard savoury ones I reach for and love, I wanted a sweet option too that could pack in a few benefits like fibre, antioxidants, protein, healthy fats to support mums from preconception to pregnancy and into the postpartum & breastfeeding stage.

I’ve found myself eating these a few times a day because they’re just that good and hold together pretty well for eating them on the go. Supporting steady blood sugar is a key factor that gets easily overlooked in our busy lives and these bars tick all the boxes for those in-between meal moments that can stop us having sugar dips or spikes. Protein, fat and fibre are a big focus in this recipe for that exact reason.

They take 10 mins to blitz together and will be loved by everyone!

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

Goji Berries

Rich in antioxidants and carotenoids, goji berries can support overall nutrient intake, immune function and antioxidant protection across all stages, they’re also a great source of vitamin C and fibre.

Dates

A source of fibre, potassium and natural carbohydrates, dates beautifully support energy, digestion and regularity, with some evidence suggesting potential benefits for cervical ripening late in pregnancy.

Coconut

One of my favourite foods for breastfeeding mamas and a fabulous source of healthy fats and fibre. Coconut is mineral rich, an antioxidant source, it’s antibacterial and really supports blood sugar and energy levels.

Hemp, Chia, Flax, Sunflower & Pumpkin Seeds

A super seed mix that packs a punch of vitamins and minerals (like magnesium, vit E, Omegas, zinc,) that are incredibly nourishing and support your increased nutrient needs during this bump to baby stage of life.

Psyllium husk

Fibre. That is it. Supporting your gut, regularity and blood sugar.

Collagen

Rich in amino acids like glycine and proline to support skin and tissue expansion and wound healing.

Coconut Seed Bars

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup goji berries

• 1/2 cup medjool dates (fresh or dried)

• 3 cups shredded coconut (not desiccated!)

• 2 tbsp honey

• 3 tbsp collagen (I used Chiefs unflavoured collagen)

SEED MIX:

• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds

• 1/2 cup hemp seeds

• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

• 1/2 cup hemp seeds

• 1 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 tbsp physillium husk

• 1/4 cup ground flax seed

TOPPING:

• 100g dark chocolate (I used Pana cooking chocolate) that is refined sugar free

• 1 Tbsp coconut oil

METHOD:

• Add goji berries & dates into a bowl and cover with boiling water. Let sit to soft for 5 minutes. Then drain and put into food processor.

• Blitz goji berries & dates with 2.5 cups of the coconut

• Slowly add in the seed mix, honey and collagen

• Once fully mixed together, stop food processor and add mix into a brownie tin that is lined with baking paper. Press mixture flat

• Melt chocolate and coconut oil together over heat and carefully pour over berry & seed mixture.

• Top with remaining coconut and place in fridge for 4 hours

• Once set, slice and store in air tight container in fridge for 5 days

*NOTE: If you’re in early pregnancy and still experiencing nausea during the day, eat one of these bars immediately upon waking and then make yourself a protein rich breakfast asap to help your blood sugar levels.