Granola is one of my favorite on-the-go snacks! Since it is also kid-friendly, I tend to be viewed as the “cool mom” at events when snack time rolls around and it’s time to share. (I just ALWAYS make sure I check with the other parents in case of any nut allergies.) You can totally play around with the ingredients or add in additional nuts, dried berries, and even chocolate chips. It’s also great for camping, nature hikes, concerts, road trips, and more.
I would advise you to steer clear (or at least beware) of processed, store-bought options and instead opt to make your own when possible. It is super simple and can provide a plethora of health benefits including, but not limited to:
- Nutrient-Rich: Granola often contains a variety of nutritious ingredients, including oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. These ingredients provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can contribute to overall health.
- Fiber: Oats and other grains in granola are typically high in dietary fiber. Fiber can aid digestion, help regulate blood sugar levels, and promote feelings of fullness, which can assist in weight management.
- Heart Health: Nuts and seeds in granola are good sources of heart-healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which have been found to help lower LDL (aka “bad”) cholesterol levels and help reduce heart disease risk.
- Protein: Depending on the ingredients, granola can also be a source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting the immune system, and maintaining muscle mass.
- Energy: The carbohydrates in granola, primarily from oats and honey, provide a quick source of energy. This can be particularly beneficial for those who engage in physical activities or need an energy boost in the morning.
- Antioxidants: Some granolas contain dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, which are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Micronutrients: Granola can contain essential micronutrients like magnesium, phosphorus, and iron, which play various roles in maintaining good health.
If you find yourself in the grocery store and want to grab some granola, or even if you are pinched for time and cannot make your own, the following are a few I would say are better than most:
- Bob’s Red Mill Muesli (muesli is another oat mix, similar to granola) with 140 calories, 2.5 g fat (0 g sat), 24 g carbs, 5 g sugar, 0 mg sodium, 4 g fiber, 4 g protein per 1/4-cup serving
Bear Naked Granola: with 120 calories, 2.5 g fat (0 g sat), 22 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 0 mg sodium, 3 g fiber, 3 g protein per 1/4 cup serving
Kind Healthy Grains: with 110 calories, 3 g fat (0 g sat fat), 21 g carb, 4 g fiber, 5 g sugar, 3 g protein per 1/3 cup serving
Steve’s PaleoGoods Paleo Krunch: with 209 calories, 13 g fat (6 g sat fat), 16 g carb, 7 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 7 g protein per 1.5 oz
Viki’s Granola (bonus—it’s gluten-free!): with 150 calories, 10 g fat ( 2.5 g sat), 13 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 0 mg sodium, 2 g fiber, 3 g protein per 1/4 cup serving
The following is one of my simple and basic recipes. Let me know what you think!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or your nut butter preference)
- 1/4 cup honey (or agave)
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 scoop BioTrust Low Carb Vanilla Protein Powder (orLow Carb Lite or Plant)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground flax
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, add:1/4 cup almond butter1/4 cup honey
- Stir until the ingredients are completely melted.
- Add 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Transfer into a large mixing bowl.
- In the large mixing bowl, add two cupsof rolled oats. Mix well to ensure all oats are coated.
- Add:1 Scoop BioTrust Low Carb Vanilla Protein Powder1 tsp cinnamon1 tsp ground flax¼ tsp salt
- Stir to combine.
- Spread granola mixture over parchmentpaper on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 325° F for 8 minutes or untilgolden brown.
- * Add 1/3 cup chocolate chips andstir to combine.
- Top with vanilla Greek yogurt withfresh fruit and your homemade protein granola.
- Enjoy.
Nutrition
You Might Like
