After that long series on orgasms, it’s only logical to follow up with snack ideas. (Because sex can be an intensive workout, it’s natural to feel hungry after orgasm. It is also natural to feel sleepy and/or emotional.) With the hot summer season upon us, it’s sometimes hard to find a treat that is light, cool, healthy and still satisfying. While I generally enjoy indulging in crisp, cold fruit to satisfy my sweet tooth in the summer, sometimes a more traditional dessert is in order. Though I’m diverging from my usual articles on sexual and reproductive health, I wanted to share this recipe for a fast and healthy, affordable and crowd-pleasing summer snack because I was so delighted by its results!
Lemonade-Yogurt Bars
(Altered from original Honey Maid graham crackers recipe)
Ingredients:
1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs (or about 10 graham crackers, crushed)
1/3 cup melted margarine/butter (this can be substituted with unsweetened applesauce, if you are looking for an oil-free version)
4 cups of non-fat vanilla yogurt
6 oz. of frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
Directions:
1. Combine graham cracker crumbs with butter/margarine until moistened
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased or non-stick, 9-inch pan
3. Mix together the yogurt and lemonade concentrate
4. Pour on top of the graham crackers and spread evenly
5. Chill in freezer for 3-4 hours or until firm
6. Cut into squares and serve!
These bars are delicious and refreshing, not too sweet and perfect for a hot summer day. The lemonade concentrate gives a little sparkle to each bite, and the yogurt is creamy enough to satisfy your seasonal cravings for ice cream, without all the extra calories. The non-fat yogurt in each serving gives you 25 percent of your daily value of Calcium, a nutrient that is especially essential to creating strong and healthy bones for women, among other things.
Though bone health and calcium intake are concerns for individuals of both sexes, menopause causes women to lose bone density more rapidly than men. Therefore, it’s even more crucial for women to build their stores of calcium before the age of 35, in order to preserve bone strength and prevent conditions like osteoporosis in later years. Additionally, several studies have correlated adequate calcium intake with diminished premenstrual symptoms – fewer cramps, higher energy and less drastic mood swings. (You knew I’d link it back to sexual health somehow!) Because a large percentage of girls and women are not meeting their daily requirements for calcium, this snack is a great way to supplement your intake in a natural, tasty and healthy way.
I highly recommend this healthy summer treat – especially when you are in need of some energy after your bedroom fitness sessions! Enjoy!