We can not get enough of this granola, in our house we make a double batch of this recipe almost weekly. We eat it over almond milk, with homemade yogurt or by the handful! Topped with your favorite fruit it will surely make a tasty and nutritious breakfast. Oats are among the healthiest grains on earth. They're gluten-free ( but make sure the label specifically says “gluten free” otherwise it may be produced on equipment with wheat) whole grain and a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. Studies show that oats and oatmeal have many health benefits. These include weight loss, lower blood sugar levels and a reduced risk of heart disease. They are a good source of carbs and fiber, including the powerful fiber beta-glucan. They also contain more protein and fat than most grains. Oats are loaded with important vitamins, minerals and antioxidant plant compounds called polyphenols. Most notable is a unique group of antioxidants called avenanthramides, which are almost solely found in oats. Avenanthramides may help lower blood pressure levels by increasing the production of nitric oxide. This gas molecule helps dilate blood vessels and leads to better blood flow. In addition, avenanthramides have anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effects. Ferulic acid is also found in large amounts in oats, this is another antioxidant. Oats contain large amounts of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber. Beta-glucan partially dissolves in water and forms a thick, gel-like solution in the gut. The health benefits of beta-glucan fiber include: reduced LDL and total cholesterol levels, reduced blood sugar and insulin response, increased feeling of fullness and increased growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract. Oh, and they taste really good!
3 Cups Organic Old Fashioned Oats
1/4 Cup Organic Hemp Hearts
2 TBS Organic Flax Seed Meal
1/4 -1/2 Tsp Pink Himalayan Salt
2 TBS Organic melted Coconut Oil
1/3 -1/2 Cup Pure Maple Syrup
1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
1 Tsp Cinnamon
Preheat oven to 250’ Mix all dry ingredients together in large bowl, mix all wet ingredients together in measuring cup then add wet to dry and stir well. Spread evenly on a baking sheet bake for 1 hr mixing half way through. Once it has cooled, store in an airtight container. Enjoy!