Written by Ashley Stanek, Clean Wellness Coach
Limiting sugar intake is one of the most effective actions you can take to reclaim your metabolic and overall health. Sugar not only increases the risk for obesity and diabetes, it is also associated with heart disease. In a 15-year study published in 2014 in JAMA Internal Medicine, "people who got 17% to 21% of their calories from added sugar had a 38% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared with those who consumed 8% of their calories as added sugar." [1]
This is why having beneficial sweet treats on hand is helpful for when the desire for something sweet hits!
Many people have a sweet tooth that appears mostly around 3 PM in the afternoon, where you’re looking for something to satisfy your sweet craving and we start rounding the kitchen.
These walnut stuffed dates are an incredible option to have handy when you want something sweet but are cleansing or want to stay away from sugar, gluten, and dairy.
Dates
Dates are a rich source of protective plant compounds such as antioxidants, polyphenols, carotenoids and lignans. These compounds have all been shown to help in prevention and management of chronic disease. They’re a rich source of bone-supporting minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K. Not only are dates rich in these wonderful compounds, their high fiber content aids in enhancing digestive function and bowel regularity. Just two dates contains about 3 grams of fiber [2].
Walnuts
Walnuts have the highest antioxidant makeup than any other nut, which can help to fight oxidative stress in the body. They’re also a super source of omega-3's, which are essential fatty acids that must be consumed through the diet. Walnuts contain a subgroup of polyphenols called ellagitannins, which may be specifically responsible for reducing inflammation [3].
Cacao
In addition to aiding in blood sugar balance, cacao has been shown to have potential effects in lowering risk of heart attack and stroke. Cacao is rich in flavanols, which are compounds that aid in improved blood flow. In case you needed another reason to incorporate cocoa into your diet, its positive impact on mental performance, mood and symptoms of depression are just another reason this ingredient is packed with benefits. Cacao’s flavanols convert to tryptophan in the body, which supports serotonin—your body’s natural feel—good hormone [4].
Put these three powerhouse ingredients together, and you have yourself a tasty, decadent, nutrient dense treat! We hope you enjoy. 
Ingredients:
6-8 medjool dates
Walnut halves & pieces
Clean chocolate or favorite cleanse-approved chocolate bar
Flaky salt to top
Optional cacao nibs for crunch
Instructions
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Remove pits from your dates and place them on a plate or small baking sheet with parchment paper
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Stuff each date with walnuts as desired
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Melt your chocolate bar until liquid and smooth
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Using a spoon, coat each stuffed date with chocolate. You can do so by submerging in a bowl of melted chocolate, or using your spoon to coat.
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Top with sea salt as desired and optional cocoa nibs for added crunch
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Place each date on the parchment paper and pop in the freezer until the chocolate is firm, 20 to 30 minutes
Sources
[1] https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/the-sweet-danger-of-sugar
[2] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-dates
[3] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-walnuts
[4] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cocoa-powder-nutrition-benefits
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