Christmas is coming, and so is all the Christmas baking. Here is a unique Christmas treat, that is full of healthy ingredients, instead of sugar.
The list of benefits of coconut, coconut milk, coconut water, coconut cream, and coconut oil are extensive, and even though coconut fat is a saturated fat, it is a healthful medium-chain fatty acid, that is known to help the body metabolize body fat and reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that populations with high amounts of coconut products in their diets have almost non-existent cholesterol or heart disease problems. Coconut is a source of lauric acid, a natural component of mother’s milk that is known to raise good cholesterol and reduce bad cholesterol. The fat in coconut is full of health benefits for the heart and thyroid as well as assisting in weight loss and regulation.
When selecting Greek yogurt for these treats, you will want to read the label to select yogurt that has active bacterial cultures. The word “active” is key in getting the probiotics that will bring the greatest benefit. The addition of a little honey to your Greek yogurt, or to any dairy increases the bio-availability of the beneficial calcium in the yogurt. Active bacterial cultures are more beneficial for the gut microbiome, which houses much of our immune system. Another benefit of Greek yogurt is the higher protein content.
Cocoa has been known to be heart-healthy and beneficial to the cardiovascular system for some time. Consumption of cocoa contributes to the reduction of oxidation of bad cholesterol which in turn reduces the build-up of plaque in blood vessels. Cocoa, due to being rich in antioxidants has been shown to help regulate blood sugar, lower bad cholesterol, and raise good cholesterol. Cocoa contains magnesium, manganese, copper, and iron. Cocoa is a natural source of tryptophan, which is why it elicits such delight in chocolate lovers everywhere. Cocoa is an anti-depressant due to the tryptophan and stimulating, due to its theobromine content. What’s not to love about something that makes you feel great and is good for you? Health professionals recommend that the benefits of cocoa are more apparent in dark chocolate, preferably organic with reduced sugar content.
Here is a yummy recipe for using all three ingredients, and turning them into health treats. When making these treats it is important to use parchment paper. I will even rub twelve circles of butter on the parchment paper for greater ease of release of the cookie from the paper.
Coconut Yogurt Clusters
1 cup unsweetened coconut
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons honey
7/8 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Combine the coconut, yogurt and honey. Add more honey if you like the filling sweeter. Cover a sheet pan with parchment paper and drop the coconut mixture by tablespoon onto the pan (makes about 15). Freeze until well chilled. Melt the chocolate chips. 30 seconds twice in a microwave) and dip the coconut cluster in the melted chocolate, chill before serving.
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