Baked: Cranberry Almond Breakfast Cookies

A pretty healthy breakfast "cookie" that you can eat anytime - loaded with fiber and some protein.

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 12 mins

Total Time: 22 mins

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Cinnamon, Sunflower Seeds, Cranberries

Health benefits of Cranberry Almond Breakfast Cookies

Cinnamon is one of the best ingredients that someone with insulin sensitivity can eat. Half a teaspoon of cinnamon per day has been shown to be very effective at normalizing blood sugar levels. Cinnamon contains hydroxychalcone, which is thought to enhance the effects of insulin. It has also been suggested that Cinnamon prevents post-meal blood sugar spikes by slowing the gastric emptying rate - meaning that food digests slowly. (Reference: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11506060). Sunflower seeds are an excellent food for PCOS as they are packed with vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). Just one cup of sunflower seeds provides 30% of the recommended daily intake for vitamin B6. Sunflower seeds are also loaded with two other important of PCOS busting minerals: zinc and magnesium.

Researchers believe that cranberries contain substances that prevent infection-causing bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls. However, store-bought cranberry juice is typically all sugar - so make sure to stick with straight cranberries.

Cranberries: The Unsung Hero in PCOS Management

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) stands as one of the predominant hormonal disorders affecting many women across the globe. Finding effective and holistic methods to manage its array of symptoms is often a journey filled with trials and experiments. Amidst the vast spectrum of dietary recommendations, a certain ruby-red fruit emerges as a potential powerhouse: the humble cranberry.

Understanding Cranberries:

Native to North America, cranberries are tiny, tart berries packed with nutrients. They are most commonly known for their ability to support urinary tract health. However, their benefits extend far beyond that, making them a valuable addition to the diet of those managing PCOS.

• 1. Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries boast a high concentration of antioxidants, especially proanthocyanidins. These compounds can combat oxidative stress, which has been linked to insulin resistance, a common concern for those with PCOS.
• 2. Natural Anti-Inflammatory: Inflammation is often silently associated with PCOS. The anti-inflammatory properties of cranberries can potentially aid in reducing systemic inflammation, indirectly supporting hormonal balance.
• 3. Supports Gut Health: A healthy gut can influence hormonal balance. The fibers and phytonutrients in cranberries promote a balanced gut microbiome, fostering good digestive health.
• 4. Low Glycemic Fruit: Dietary recommendations for PCOS often stress the importance of low glycemic index (GI) foods to maintain steady blood sugar levels. Cranberries fit the bill perfectly, allowing for a sweet treat without the blood sugar spike.

Incorporating Cranberries into Your Diet:

While cranberry juice is widely available, it's essential to opt for unsweetened versions to avoid added sugars. Fresh cranberries can be added to salads, smoothies, or baked goods. Dried cranberries, preferably unsweetened or minimally sweetened, can be a delicious addition to oatmeal, granolas, or as a simple snack.

PCOS management requires a multifaceted approach, and nutrition stands as one of its cornerstones. By integrating cranberries into a balanced diet, individuals with PCOS can harness their benefits, taking a flavorful step towards better health. As with all dietary changes, it's always a good practice to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure the best choices for individual health needs.

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups apple sauce
1/2 cup hulled sunflower seeds
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp allspice
2 tsps cinnamon powder
2 tsps ground ginger
3/4 tsp salt
2 tsps vanilla
1 tsp orange zest
3/4 cup whole almonds
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
3 cups oats

Instructions

1. Combine whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, allspice, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir well and set aside.

2. Place eggs, vegetable oil, unsweetened apple sauce, and brown sugar in a large bowl and beat together well.

3. Add orange zest, vanilla, oats, chopped almonds, and sunflower seeds and stir until well combined.

4. Add flour mixture and stir until just combined; don't over-mix.

5. Using a 1/4 cup of cookie dough at a time (or use a 1/4 cup ice cream scooper for ease) for each cookie, place rounded spoons of dough on a prepared cookie sheet. Press them down slightly with a fork to flatten.

6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned. Allow to cool on the cookie sheet before removing onto a cooling rack.

7. Note: you can replace the cranberries with chocolate chips if you prefer as well as walnuts for the almonds. In addition, instead of 2 large eggs, save some calories and use 5 egg whites instead.