Lunch: Cranberry-Cornmeal Quick Bread

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Cranberries

Health benefits of Cranberry-Cornmeal Quick Bread

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

Nonstick vegetable oil spray
1 cup unbleached all purpose flour
1 cup white whole wheat flour or regular whole wheat flour*
1 cup medium-grind whole grain cornmeal or regular cornmeal
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon maple extract
3/4 cup chopped pecans plus 10 pecan halves for garnish
3/4 cup dried cranberries (about 4 ounces)

Instructions

Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 350 °F. Spray 9x5x3-inch metal loaf pan with nonstick spray. Whisk both flours, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder in large bowl. Whisk buttermilk, melted butter, maple syrup, eggs, and extract in medium bowl. Add buttermilk mixture to flour mixture; stir just until blended. Stir in 3/4 cup chopped pecans and cranberries. Spoon batter into pan. Arrange pecan halves in row down center of batter.
Bake bread until top is golden brown and paring knife inserted into center of bread comes out clean, tenting bread loosely with foil if browning too quickly, about 1 hour 10 minutes. Cool in pan on rack 20 minutes. Turn out onto rack; cool.
A LITTLE AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Wrap bread in foil and store at room temperature.
FURTHER AHEAD: Can be made and then frozen up to 2 weeks ahead. Wrap in foil, then place in resealable plastic bag.
*White whole wheat flour is milled from 100 percent hard white wheat. It contains all of the germ and bran (and nutritional value) of regular whole wheat, but has a naturally lighter color and milder flavor. It's available at some supermarkets and specialty foods stores and from kingarthurflour. com.

Share Cranberry-Cornmeal Quick Bread

Share on Twitter