It’s Mental Health Awareness Month, an initiative that takes place within the month of October. The theme this year is “Tune In” asking Australians to tune into themselves, their senses and their communities. So, what better time to share a recipe that asks you to ‘tune in’ to your mental health via your diet! This week, we’re sharing our dietitian’s Apricot Balls for the ladies, but don’t worry guys, you’re up next week!
We know you’re probably asking yourself, “What makes this recipe good for mental health?” and the answer is simple. Zinc and selenium! Studies have shown that zinc can mimic the effects of antidepressant therapy. Meanwhile, selenium helps create antioxidant enzymes which are pivotal in preventing cell damage and supporting the immune system.
Let’s get into it!
Apricot Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw unsalted cashews
- ½ cup pepitas
- 3/4 cup raw brazil nuts
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 2 tablespoons of skim milk powder
- ½ cup shredded coconut
Method
- Blend cashews, pepitas and brazil nuts in a blender until combined. Empty mixture into a medium mixing bowl.
- Blend apricots until fine. Add apricots to nut mixture along with skim milk powder. Mix together with a spoon and add a small amount of water until desired consistency.
- Roll mixture into approximately 12 balls and roll into shredded coconut until coated.
- Refrigerate and enjoy!
Nutrition Stats
| Per Serve | Per 100g | |
| Energy | 760kJ | 2268kJ |
| Protein | 4.9g | 14.8g |
| Fat | 14.2g | 42.6g |
| Saturated fat | 4.2g | 12.7g |
| Carbohydrate | 7.6g | 22.9g |
| Dietary Fibre | 2.4g | 7.3g |
| Selenium | 177.4 µg | 529.5µg |
| Zinc | 1.22mg | 3.6mg |
Looking for more recipes? Check out our eBook collection for more! For tailored advice recommended just for you, get in contact with one of our dietitians today.
