Snack: Vegan Cinnamon Almond Granola Bars

A simple and easy treat, good for snacks, breakfasts or long hikes.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Cinnamon, Agave

Health benefits of Vegan Cinnamon Almond Granola Bars

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). Agave, a sweetener derived from the core of the agave plant, is frequently highlighted in nutritional discussions due to its notably low glycemic index (GI) rating. With a GI score of just 17, it stands out from many other natural sweeteners and sugars that often have higher GI values. For those unfamiliar with the term, the glycemic index is a measure that ranks foods based on how significantly they raise blood glucose (sugar) levels after consumption. Foods with a lower GI value are absorbed more slowly and cause a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels, which is particularly crucial for individuals managing conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

Ingredients

1/3 cup, slivered almonds
1/3 cup flax seeds
1/2 cup raisins
2 1/2 tsps cinnamon
5 tbsp agave nectar
2 1/4 cups rolled oats

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients except dried fruit.

2. Spread evenly on to a large baking sheet.

3. Bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for 15 minutes, stirring mixture every 5 minutes.

4. Note: you can add any other dried fruit like cranberries or dates, if you decide to modify.