Natural Skittles

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This recipe comes from “Tastemade”. When I saw this recipe I was hyped! I mean who doesn’t love candy? Furthermore, if you tell me there is a more nutritious way to make it, I’m sold!

I remember as a kid I used the love Skittles. They are so juicy and I loved trying all the colors. Of course, as I got older I realized they aren’t good for your teeth. In working with women with PCOS, I often counsel to decrease simple sugar intake. But honestly, not everything is a good replacement for simple sugar. Sometimes the advice can feel like I’m telling them to swap their comfort candy for celery sticks. While celery is an awesome food it doesn’t replace candy. I think we’ve gotten to a place with food that gives us the message we should stay away from eating out of emotion or comfort. In reality eating a good meal with those you love, even if it’s by yourself, is a completely emotional experience. There’s nothing wrong with having comfort foods. The key is making sure your diet includes a variety of key nutrients to nourish your body. These natural Skittles are the PERFECT alternative. Packed with fruit nutrients and just the right amount of sweetness that can help curb your cravings.

In addition to the obvious fruit base, the secret ingredient is white yam. Despite its name, it’s a sweet potato! It’s made of good carbs, and fiber, and is an excellent source of potassium. Enjoy!

The Benefits of White Yam

White yam, a tuber vegetable widely cultivated in tropical regions, offers numerous health benefits making it a valuable addition to one’s diet.
Nutrient-Rich: White yam is packed with essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and manganese. These nutrients play vital roles in supporting the immune system, promoting brain health, and maintaining healthy bodily functions.
Digestive Health: With a high fiber content, white yam aids in digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Additionally, the fiber content supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Energy Source: As a complex carbohydrate, white yam provides a sustained release of energy, making it an ideal food for active individuals and athletes. It helps in replenishing glycogen stores and maintaining consistent energy levels.
Heart Health: Potassium, an important mineral present in white yams, contributes to heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. Its low-fat and cholesterol-free nature further supports cardiovascular wellness.
Antioxidant Properties: White yam contains antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and protect the body from chronic diseases. These antioxidants may also play a role in reducing inflammation within the body.
Versatile Culinary Uses: From soups and stews to stir-fries and salads, white yam’s versatility in cooking allows for a wide range of delectable and nutritious dishes to be prepared, making it an excellent addition to various cuisines.
Incorporating white yams into one’s diet can offer a multitude of health benefits, making it a nutritious and delicious choice for individuals seeking to enhance their overall well-being.

NATURAL SKITTLES

INGREDIENTS

  • Blackberry Plum

  • 1 1/2 cup cooked white yam

  • 1/2 cup Blackberries

  • 1/2 cup plums

  • 2 tablespoons Concord grape juice

  • Kiwi Lime

  • 1 1/2 cup cooked white yam

  • 4 Kiwi

  • 1/2 cup raw Spinach

  • 2 tablespoons Lime

  • 2 tablespoons Honey

  • Banana Piña

  • 1 1/2 cup cooked white yam

  • 1 cup Banana

  • 1/2 cup pineapple

  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice

  • Peach Papaya

  • 1 1/2 cup orange sweet potato

  • 3/4 cup Papaya

  • 1/2 cup peaches

  • 2 tablespoons Orange juice

  • Red Berry

  • 1 1/2 cup white sweet yam

  • 3/4 cup Strawberries

  • 1/2 cup raspberries

  • 2 tablespoons cranberry juice

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Blend all ingredients. Transfer to a food storage bag. Seal the bag, cut off a small tip from one corner, and pipe small rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  2. Place in the oven or dehydrator at 125°F for 6-10 hours or until fully dried.