WARNING! Once you've tried this you won't be able to resist coming back for more
Cancer treatments can affect appetite as well as the way food tastes. As a result you may find yourself eating less often as well as eating fewer nutrient-dense foods during a time when your body needs them most. Not only that, but chemo/radiotherapies can damage the gut-lining which can cause abdominal pain and trouble digesting and absorbing nutrients.
With this in mind, it's important that we choose foods that:
a) we actually want to eat,
b) contain maximum bang-for-buck in terms of nutrients, and
c) are easy to digest
The ingredients in this healthy chocolate avocado pudding go a long to tick these boxes
AVOCADOS contain a whopping 20 vitamins and minerals including zinc, potassium, vitamins C, E and a number of B vitamins making it a healthy, nutrient-dense choice; they're a source of complex carbohydrates, giving you a slower, steadier supply of energy; the predominant fat in avocados is monounsaturated - one of the "good" fats; they're easy to digest and contain an incredible 9g of soluble and insoluble fibre per single fruit.
RAW CACAO POWDER also know as the chocolate superfood (not to be confused with its more processed brother cocoa powder) is an excellent, natural source of magnesium which can ease anxiety, promote calm and may help with constipation; also known for its mood boosting qualities.
MAPLE SYRUP is a rich source of manganese and vitamin B2, and has a lower glycemic index than refined sugars making it a favourable alternative.
ALMONDS are a great source of vitamin E; almond (or any other nut) milk offers an alternative to dairy milk which can be inflammatory; be sure to choose a brand that doesn't add sugar or preservatives.
Ingredients (serves 2)
1 avocado
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
3 tablespoons nut milk of your choice
2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
1 tablespoon almond butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 generous pinch himalayan salt
fresh raspberries or blueberries
Method
- In a blender or food processor, on low speed, blend all ingredients except the berries.
- Serve in a bowl or glass tumblers sprinkled with a little dry cacao powder and topped with fresh berries.
- If you prefer a chilled pudding, refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes before serving.
- This dessert will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.