nutrition, sweet treats, energy bites, recipes Michelle Weise nutrition, sweet treats, energy bites, recipes Michelle Weise

Recipe of the Day: Mint Chocolate Protein Energy Bites🍫

If you're looking for a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, these Mint Chocolate Protein Energy Bites from Simplify Healthy Eating are exactly what your body (and taste buds) have been craving. Packed with wholesome ingredients and naturally sweetened, they offer the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition—without the guilt.

If you're looking for a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, these Mint Chocolate Protein Energy Bites from Simplify Healthy Eating are exactly what your body (and taste buds) have been craving. Packed with wholesome ingredients and naturally sweetened, they offer the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition—without the guilt.

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

These bites are more than just a tasty snack. Each ingredient plays a powerful role in supporting your health and energy levels, making this recipe an excellent option for post-workout fuel, a midday pick-me-up, or a healthy dessert.

🌱 Nutrient-Packed Ingredients:

  • Rolled Oats: A fiber-rich whole grain that helps support digestion and provides long-lasting energy.

  • Chocolate Protein Powder: A great way to boost your protein intake to help with muscle repair and satiety. Choose your preferred type—whey, pea, or plant-based.

  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants like flavonoids that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

  • Sunflower Seed or Almond Butter: These healthy fats promote brain health and help you stay fuller longer.

  • Unsweetened Almond Milk: A low-calorie alternative to dairy with added calcium and vitamin E.

  • Shredded Coconut: Adds texture and healthy fats while enhancing flavor.

  • Chia Seeds & Ground Flaxseed: Tiny but mighty! These superfoods are loaded with omega-3s, fiber, and plant-based protein.

  • Mint Extract: Refreshing and naturally soothing to the digestive system.

  • Monk Fruit Sweetener: A zero-calorie natural sweetener that won’t spike your blood sugar.

  • Dark Chocolate Chips (70%+ cacao): The perfect indulgent touch loaded with antioxidants and mood-boosting compounds.

Mint Chocolate Protein Energy Bites

👩🏽‍🍳 How to Make It:

  1. In a large bowl, mix together oats, protein powder, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, chia seeds, and flaxseed.

  2. In a separate bowl, blend the nut butter, almond milk, mint extract, and sweetener.

  3. Combine wet and dry mixtures. If it’s too dry, add more almond milk—one tablespoon at a time.

  4. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

  5. Roll into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  7. Enjoy 2 bites per serving and store the rest in the fridge!

💪 Macro Breakdown (Per Serving of 2 Bites):

  • Calories: 150–180 kcal

  • Protein: 5–10g

  • Carbs: 10–15g

  • Fiber: 3–5g

  • Fat: 7–10g

Macros are estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.

🍬 Sweet Tooth Satisfaction, Zero Regret

These Mint Chocolate Protein Energy Bites are proof that you can satisfy your cravings with clean, wholesome ingredients. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a healthy way to enjoy chocolate, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Eat well. Feel energized. Stay empowered.

Pin it, share it, and don’t forget to tag us when you make your own! #SimplifyHealthyEating

📍 SimplifyHealthyEating.com

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🥑 Healthy Fat is Your Friend: 6 Affordable Foods to Fuel Your Body

For years, fat got a bad rap. But let’s set the record straight: healthy fat is your friend—not your enemy. When you choose the right sources, fat becomes a powerful ally in your journey toward better energy, brain function, hormone balance, and even fat loss.

Today, we’re highlighting 6 low-cost, nutrient-rich sources of healthy fats that are easy to incorporate into your daily meals—even on a budget.

For years, fat got a bad rap. But let’s set the record straight: healthy fat is your friend—not your enemy. When you choose the right sources, fat becomes a powerful ally in your journey toward better energy, brain function, hormone balance, and even fat loss.

Today, we’re highlighting 6 low-cost, nutrient-rich sources of healthy fats that are easy to incorporate into your daily meals—even on a budget.

🫒 1. Olives

Olives are more than just a pizza topping—they’re full of monounsaturated fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation. Plus, they’re rich in antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. Add them to salads, snack boards, or eat them right out of the jar! (Not gonna lie…I prefer olive oil to the olive itself, but to each h/her own🤣)

🥜 2. Nut Butters

Almond, peanut, cashew—you name it. Natural nut butters provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber, keeping you full longer and helping stabilize your blood sugar. Just watch out for added sugars or oils in processed brands.

🌱 3. Chia Seeds

Don’t underestimate these tiny super seeds! Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. They help with digestion, energy, and inflammation. Stir them into smoothies, yogurt, or overnight oats.

🥑 4. Avocados (Fresh or Frozen)

Creamy, satisfying, and loaded with nutrients, avocados are a top source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They’re also rich in potassium, which supports nerve and muscle function. Frozen avocado chunks are a great budget-friendly alternative when fresh ones are pricey.

🧆 5. Hummus

Made from chickpeas and tahini (sesame paste), hummus is a delicious, versatile spread that gives you healthy fats and plant-based protein. Use it as a dip, sandwich spread, or salad topper.

🌻 6. Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are not only affordable, they’re also a fantastic source of vitamin E, selenium, and healthy fats. Sprinkle them on salads, oatmeal, or eat them as a snack for a satisfying crunch.

🧠 Why You Need Healthy Fats

Healthy fats help your body:

  • Absorb essential vitamins (A, D, E, and K)

  • Support brain function and memory

  • Keep your skin glowing and joints lubricated

  • Balance hormones

  • Stay satisfied after meals (goodbye, cravings!)

When you remove the fear around fat and focus on quality sources, you’ll notice your energy stabilize, your focus sharpen, and your cravings drop.

✨ Quick Tip:

Start small. Try adding 1-2 healthy fat sources per meal—like avocado in your smoothie, sunflower seeds on your salad, or hummus as a dip with raw veggies.

💬 Let’s Keep It Simple & Empowered

Inside the Simplify Healthy Eating Meal Plan Membership, you’ll learn exactly how to build balanced meals using foods like these—without the guesswork. You’ll get:

✅ Weekly meal plans
✅ Grocery lists
✅ Anti-inflammatory recipes
✅ Smoothies, snacks, and more

🌟 Join today and take the stress out of eating healthy!
Head to SIMPLIFYHEALTHYEATING.COM to secure your spot.

Because nourishing your body should be simple—and you deserve to feel empowered every single day.

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Michelle Weise Michelle Weise

Wellness Wednesday: 6 Key Factors That Can Impact Your Metabolism

It’s not just a buzzword for weight loss—it’s the engine that powers every cell in your body. From how quickly you burn calories to how much energy you have throughout the day, your metabolism plays a major role in how you feel and function.

Let’s talk metabolism.

It’s not just a buzzword for weight loss—it’s the engine that powers every cell in your body. From how quickly you burn calories to how much energy you have throughout the day, your metabolism plays a major role in how you feel and function.

But did you know several key factors influence how your metabolism works? Understanding them can help you make empowered, sustainable changes that support your body, energy, and long-term wellness goals.

Here’s your Wellness Wednesday breakdown of the 6 key metabolism influencers—and how to work with them, not against them:

1. Age

As we grow older, especially around age 60, our metabolism naturally begins to slow. That doesn’t mean you’re doomed—it just means your body needs a little extra support.
Tip: Prioritize strength training and nutrient-dense foods to give your metabolism a healthy boost.

2. Muscle Mass

Muscle burns more calories than fat, even at rest. The more lean muscle you have, the higher your resting metabolic rate.
Tip: Incorporate resistance training (even bodyweight exercises!) at least 2–3 times per week to maintain and build muscle.

3. Genetics

Some people are simply born with a faster (or slower) metabolism due to genetics. While you can’t change your DNA, you can optimize your habits.
Tip: Focus on lifestyle factors you can control—movement, stress management, sleep, and quality nutrition.

4. Hormones

Hormonal imbalances—like those involving thyroid, cortisol, or insulin—can throw your metabolism off track. This is especially important during menopause, post-partum, or after major life stress.
Tip: Listen to your body. If something feels off, talk to your healthcare provider and get your levels checked.

5. Activity Level

It’s no secret: the more you move, the more calories you burn. But beyond calorie burn, activity also boosts circulation, regulates blood sugar, and supports overall energy.
Tip: Find joyful ways to move—whether it’s dancing, walking, swimming, or yoga. Make movement a lifestyle, not a chore.

6. Nutrition

Food is fuel—and how you fuel your body matters. A balanced, whole-foods-based diet supports metabolic health and keeps things running efficiently.
Tip: Focus on protein, fiber, healthy fats, and colorful veggies. Skip the crash diets and nourish your body for longevity.

Final Words of Empowerment:

Metabolism isn’t fixed. It’s influenced by daily choices, lifestyle patterns, and grace-filled self-awareness. At The Relentlessly Empowered, we believe in taking sustainable steps toward wellness—because true health isn’t just about what you eat or how you move, but how you honor your body through every season of life.

So this Wellness Wednesday, I encourage you to: 💪 Keep moving
🥗 Eat with intention
🧠 Stay curious
🌱 And above all—stay empowered.

Because yes… #MetabolismMatters and so do you. 💖

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