Sunflower Honey Walnut Butter

I was inspired by our expo neighbor & co-founder of Wild Friends Nut Butter, Erika, at NW Kids Fest this weekend.  She has so many delicious and creative spreads that I was sampling on over the past few days. I had to try my hand at it when I got home today… Here is what I came up with!

Sunflower Honey Walnut Butter

Ingredients

• 2 cups sunflower seeds
• 2 cups walnuts
• ½ cup honey 

Preparation Instructions

1. Put seed and nuts in a food processor and let process for 3 minutes.
2. Add honey and process for another minute.
3. Enjoy!

Fuel Facts

Numbers: 210 calories, 5 g protein, 16 g fat, 14 g carbs, 4 g fiber

**For 2 Tbsp

Ingredient Breakdown:

v Sunflower Seeds – The seeds are lower in saturated fat than peanuts and are a great source of vitamin E. Athletes, especially those in endurance sports, experience oxidative stress comparable, in some cases, to the amounts observed in patients after surgery or trauma. Vitamin E has been shown to combat this oxidative damage. In a recent study, when runners supplemented vitamin C & E for six weeks prior to race day, they avoided a rise in lipid oxidation all together.

v Walnuts – These are the only nuts that are a significant source of omega-3 fatty acids, containing 2.5 grams per ounce. Strong evidence exists to support the role of omega 3 fatty acids in lowering the risk for heart disease and preventing inflammation. A number of studies have also found benefits in relation to mood, brain function and healthy skin.

v Honey – Due to the combination of glucose and fructose, honey will keep you energized longer than it’s sweet counterparts. Glucose is used quickly by the body, providing an immediate energy source. Fructose takes longer to absorb, sustaining blood sugar levels. When blood sugar is kept stable, your energy will also remain constant, so say goodbye to the afternoon crash.

Honey is also a great natural healer. For starters it is packed with polyphenols, antioxidants that have immune boosting properties to keep you from becoming sick. In addition, honey contains an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide which is why it is believed to be antibacterial in nature. Honey can be used topically to treat burns, wounds, and even acne. Honey fights off impurity-causing bacteria while also hydrating the skin.