Chocolate Chip Gut Friendly Cookies
Hey there, Wellkulå Friend!
I'm often asked what's the best way to eat a cookie. I usually respond saying, "With a glass of milk." While it's true that cookies and milk are an amazing combination, there's another combo that should be added to your list: gut-friendly cookies and tea. These easy chocolate chip cookies are made without wheat flour or sugar, so they're perfect for anyone with digestive issues or Celiac disease. They're also vegan-friendly!
HEALTH BENEFITS OF INGREDIENTS
We all need a chocolate chip cookie once in awhile
We’ve all seen the commercials, but what does it really mean to be gut-friendly? Well, it’s not just about eating foods that help your digestion. Gut-friendly foods also include those that support your immune system and overall wellness.
This particular cookie contains a few ingredients which are known to have health benefits including: **chocolate**, **oat flour** and **nut butter**. Chocolate has been shown to improve mood and decrease stress levels; oats are high in fiber which helps keep us regular; nuts contain vitamin E which may help fight inflammation (a common cause of digestive problems).
This recipe is a great option for those looking for a sweet treat that supports gut health.
For a healthy gut, it’s important to eat a well-balanced diet that includes fiber and whole grains. This recipe is a great example of how you can use your favorite ingredients to create delicious treats that also support your digestive health.
Cooking with friends
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Flax Meal
Fiber-Rich: Flax meal is high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes regular bowel movements. The fiber content also acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats can help reduce inflammation in the gut and support overall digestive health.
Antioxidants: Flax meal contains lignans, which are powerful antioxidants that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Heart Health: The omega-3 fatty acids and fiber in flax meal contribute to heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Coconut Oil
Antimicrobial Properties: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that can help combat harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses in the gut.
Digestive Aid: Coconut oil can improve the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and minerals, aiding overall digestion.
Healthy Fats: The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil can provide a quick source of energy and may help support cognitive function.
Anti-inflammatory: Its anti-inflammatory properties can contribute to reducing chronic inflammation, which is associated with many age-related diseases.
Almond Milk
Lactose-Free: Almond milk is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant, helping to avoid digestive discomfort.
Prebiotic Potential: Some commercial almond milks are fortified with added fibers that can act as prebiotics, supporting gut health.
Nutrient-Rich: Almond milk is often fortified with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E, which are essential for bone health, immune function, and skin health.
Low in Calories: It can be a lower-calorie alternative to cow's milk, which may help in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases.
Cinnamon
Anti-inflammatory: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce gut inflammation and improve digestion.
Antimicrobial: It also has antimicrobial properties that can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
Antioxidants: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, which can help fight oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Blood Sugar Regulation: It can help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Dark Chocolate
Prebiotic Effects: Dark chocolate contains compounds that have prebiotic effects, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Polyphenols: These compounds in dark chocolate can positively affect the gut microbiome and improve digestive health.
Heart Health: Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which can improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow.
Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory properties of dark chocolate can help reduce chronic inflammation and support overall health.
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy cookie recipe, then look no further. These Chocolate Chip Gut Friendly Cookies are the perfect option! They have all of the flavor you love without any of the guilt because they are made with easy-to-digest ingredients like coconut oil and almond flour. Plus, they have just enough sweetness so that they’ll satisfy any sweet tooth while still being good for your gut health.
Until next time, Dr. Monisha
WELLKHANA KITCHEN RECIPE
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 tbsp flax meal plus 1/2 Tbsp water mixed
1/8 cup coconut oil, melted
1/6 tsp almond milk (or other nut milk)
1/6 cup apple sauce
1 tbsp agave
1/6 cup cashew butter or almond butter
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1.5 tbsp coconut flour
1/2 cup oat flour
1/8 tsp baking soda
1/3 bar dark chocolate, chopped
Pinch of salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees
Mix flax, agave, coconut oil, almond butter, almond milk, and apple sauce.
Stir in coconut flour, oat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Let sit for about 5 minutes to let the coconut flour absorb some of the moisture.
Fold in chocolate chunks, leaving some on the side for later.
Place parchment paper down on a baking sheet and drop cookie dough blobs using a spoon - making about 12 small cookies or 5-6 large cookies.
Place some more chunks of chocolate on the cookie sand sprinkle with salt.
Place in oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
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by Dr. Monisha Bhanote
✅ EVIDENCE-INFORMED REVIEWED ARTICLE