Breakfast: Maple Pecan Keto Muffins

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey, Apple Cider Vinegar

Health benefits of Maple Pecan Keto Muffins

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Apple cider vinegar will improve your body's sensitivity to insulin (Reference: http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/27/1/281.full)

Ingredients

1 Cup Honeyville Almond Flour
1/2 Cup Bob’s Red Mill Golden Flaxseed
3/4 Cup Pecan Halves
1/2 Cup Coconut Oil
2 Large Eggs
1/4 Cup NOW Erythritol
2 tsp. Maple Extract
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
1/2 tsp. Baking Soda
1/2 tsp. Apple Cider Vinegar
1/4 tsp. Liquid Stevia

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325F. Then, in a food processor, add 3/4 Cup Pecan Halves and coarsely chop them.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add 2 Large Eggs, 1/2 Cup Coconut Oil, 2 tsp. Maple Extract, 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract, 1/2 tsp. Apple Cider Vinegar, and 1/4 tsp. Liquid Stevia. Mix this all together well.
3. In another mixing bowl, add 2/3 of chopped pecans, 1 Cup Honeyville Almond Flour, 1/2 Cup Bob’s Red Mill Golden Flaxseed, 1/4 Cup NOW Erythritol and 1/2 tsp. Baking Soda. Mix this all together well.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Note: The wet ingredients will be lumpy if the eggs are not room temperature. If you have a chunky wet batter, it is from the coconut oil solidifying – don’t worry about this.
5. Mix together all the ingredients well until a batter forms.
6. Distribute the batter among 11 muffin liners in a cupcake tray.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 chopped pecans over the top of each muffin.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes in the oven at 325F.
9. Take out the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
10. Serve warm! These also save very well.