In the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle and effective weight management, finding nutritious and satisfying snacks is key. One delightful option that has gained popularity in health-conscious circles is the peanut butter protein ball. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, these bite-sized treats offer a tasty solution to curb cravings and support weight loss goals. What makes peanut butter protein balls particularly appealing is their simplicity. With just three ingredients, some recipes eliminate the need for complicated meal preparation while still offering a delicious and nutritious option for those aiming to shed extra pounds.
We spoke with Emily Johnson, RD, Nutritionist from JuiceReport, to learn about one easy three-ingredient recipe that you can eat every day and still lose weight. Johnson revealed that this peanut butter protein ball recipe only needs natural peanut butter, oats, and honey! Read on for its weight loss benefits.
Three-Ingredient Peanut Butter Protein Balls For Weight Loss
For this recipe, you'll need just these three ingredients: natural peanut butter, oats, and honey. The instructions are quite simple, as Johnson states: combine 1 cup of oats, ½ cup of natural peanut butter, and ¼ cup of honey. Mix well, roll into balls, and refrigerate.
She highlights that this simple and easy recipe is high in protein, "Peanut butter is a good source of protein, which is essential for building muscle and keeping you full longer, reducing overall calorie intake."
It also consists of a high fiber content. "Oats are high in fiber, promoting a feeling of fullness and aiding in digestion, both key for weight management," she notes.
"[The] natural sweetness [of] honey provides sweetness without the need for sugar, helping in controlling blood sugar spikes," she adds.
The Bottom Line
By focusing on wholesome ingredients such as peanut butter, oats, and a natural sweetener, this recipe provides a balanced combination of macronutrients without compromising on taste. The three-ingredient approach not only streamlines the cooking process but also makes it easier to adhere to a weight loss plan.
Other notable benefits of this recipe that Johnson highlights is the portion control, refrigeration, and variations of this nutritious snack: "Each ball should be about the size of a tablespoon. This helps in managing portion sizes, which is important for weight loss. Storing the balls in the fridge can help to maintain their shape and freshness. You can add a bit of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt for extra flavor."