Oatmeal Crisp Cookies

THE MAIN INGREDIENTS ​

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Oats

By nature, oats are gluten free because they contain a protein called avenin instead of gluten, both of which function similarly. However, oats can be processed in facilities that risk cross-contamination, so buying "gluten free oats" means that you are purchasing a product that has taken precaution(s) to prepare and process the oats on equipment that is not also used for gluten containing foods. Some with celiac disease can still have a adverse reaction to oats, so it is important to follow the instructions and advice of your medical practitioners  and dietitian in this case (1). If you simply avoid gluten for other reasons, oats can serve as an excellent source of nutrients such as fiber and iron, and make an excellent alternative to flour in this recipe.

 

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are believed to have been a staple as far back as the Aztec diet. Chia seeds have recently gained increasing attention as an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acid, which may be especially beneficial in combating heart disease. They also are an great source of fiber, and in addition contain protein and other important minerals (including iron, calcium, magnesium and zinc). Combined with water in this recipe, they act as the role of an egg substitute, making them not only a healthy addition but a vital part of the baking process as well (2). 

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Peanut Butter

Peanut butter has long been debated as a source of nutrients. Essentially, in the proper amounts, made of the simplest ingredients, and of course as a component of an otherwise balanced diet, it is an excellent source of protein. It actually has its roots in the medical field since at one point it was advertised to patients missing teeth as a way to consume protein in the needed amounts. Beyond that it is relatively inexpensive and is a very versatile ingredient (3). Of course you should stay away from PB if you have an allergy or are on the sensitivity spectrum, but as long as you follow the recommended serving proportions and make sure to stay away from added or processed sugars (see this article for some sneaky names it might hide under), oils, or unnecessary salt content, PB can be an excellent addition or topping to any recipe. 

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Coconut Sugar 

While any sugar is still a sugar and over-consumption can lead to negative effects, coconut sugar is a great alternative to cane sugar because while the calories are the same, it is not usually refined or bleached like white sugar. Sometimes called coconut palm sugar, this sweetener imitates sugar but in it's organic form is natural and unrefined compared to most of its extensively processed counterparts. While not the most excellent way to consume vitamins and minerals, because coconut sugar comes from the blossoms of the plant, it naturally comes with some vitamins and minerals(4). Bottom line is, don't be eating it by the bucketful, but when it comes to sweeteners this one is a pretty sweet substitute. 

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Cacao Nibs

I grew up in a family who used to ignore the measurements for chocolate chips and instead measure it by "eyeballing however much looks good"...which was usually the whole bag. When I discovered cacao I was ecstatic. A lot of people get confused with cacao and cocoa but essentially the difference is this: "Dark chocolate of at least 70% cocoa solids is a true superfood but cacao nibs take it to the next level. Cacao nibs are essentially eating the cacao bean itself as they have been roasted, separated from their husks and broken into smaller pieces. When we use the word ‘Cocoa‘ it is usually in reference to the processed, final product. Cacao is how any form of chocolate starts out as the beans come from the Theobroma cacao tree.Cacao nibs are the least processed and most natural form of chocolate" (5). Cacao nibs have basically become cheater chocolate chips in my diet. And I think they should be in yours, too! Toss them in this recipe and see how you like it!  

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