Fertility Friendly Pumpkin Seed Granola Bars
Since it’s officially my favorite season again, it’s time to bring back all the fall flavors.
I know some people are all about that pumpkin spice life but sign me up for all things apple and salted caramel.
I promise it’s not all not all cookies and granola bars over here, although to be fair there is a lot. And this one is getting us through this week.
Supercharged with healthy fats from nuts and seeds, plant based protein, high fiber carbs from oats and brown rice, and just enough adaptogens to support healthy hormones, these granola bars really uplevel your snack game.
BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN SEEDS
Pumpkin seeds, aka: pepitas are high in antioxidants to reduce inflammation and are another great source of magnesium to support healthy blood sugar levels, as well as heart and bone health. They’re high in plant protein with just 1 Tablespoon containing 3 grams of protein. And they’re a good source of tryptophan, zinc, and magnesium, all of which promote healthy sleep, making them a great option for a bedtime snack too.
BENEFITS OF OATMEAL
Carbs get a pretty bad rap these days, but they’ re definitely not as scary as you might think!
Getting enough of the right kinds of carbohydrates in your diet is not only more enjoyable, it’s essential to healthy, well balanced hormones! Beyond just promoting a healthy gut and good digestion, high fiber carbs also support blood sugar balance and well balanced blood sugar is one of the secrets to optimal hormone health.
Carbs like oatmeal, quinoa, buckwheat, brown rice, legumes, root veggies and potatoes are nutrient dense and full of fiber, both of which are super important for our gut and hormone health and leave us feeling energized. While carbs from things like pastries and cookies spike blood sugar then drop it fast, often taking our mood along for the ride.
Grains can be a little tricky, as even healthy ones aren’t tolerated well by some women, depending on a variety of different factors, such as PCOS or perimenopause. But no need to ditch carbs altogether, just experiment with the type and amount that work best for your body. Especially if you’re trying to conceive, it’s all about slow carbs, not no carbs!
INGREDIENTS
3 cups puffed brown rice cereal
2 cups rolled oats
3/4 cup dried Gogi berries
1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup ground flaxseed
2 T chia seeds
1/4 c @foursigmatic protein powder
1/2 cup hazlenut or almond butter
1/4 cup tahini
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup sweetened condensed coconut milk
DIRECTIONS
Combine all dry ingredients in a large bowl. Warm the oil, maple syrup, coconut milk caramel and nut butters until well combined. Add the sea salt and vanilla.
Press into parchment paper lined cookie sheet.
Bake at 325 for 25 minutes.
Let cool and then slice into bars.
Store in an airtight container or in the freezer so you can enjoy anytime.