Sugar. Full of calories with little to no nutrients. Spikes our blood sugar and our energy only to bring us crashing down. Fills up our bellies and leaves no room for foods that will fuel us and leave us feeling good. We know it isn’t good for us. We know it affects our health in more ways than one. We know our children shouldn’t be eating so much of it. However, when it comes to making our children happy, sometimes we reach for something with sugar in order to avoid a tantrum, to cheer them up or just so simply make their smiles even wider. I’m a mama, and I feel you!
The unfortunate truth is that those cookies, cupcakes, crackers and other treats are affecting your child’s health. This does not mean they can never have a sugary treat – but as parents, we can help decrease the amount of sugar they consume at their vulnerable young age. When we make snacks that are homemade, we decide what ingredients go into the recipe and our little one’s bellies. This feels good because we are in control!
Naturally occurring sugars such as raw honey and maple syrup are still sugar. It doesn’t make it any more nutritious than white sugar as all sugars are digested the same way. They are all turned into glucose and used for energy. However, naturally occurring sugars are better for our bodies because they are just that – “naturally occurring”, and therefore our bodies are able to recognize them and break them down easier.
One special and delicious treat you can try with your little ones is Pecan Chickpea Cookie Dough. Chickpeas are a rich source of protein and fiber, which can help our children feel full and satisfied. Chickpeas also help stabilize blood sugar and encourage healthy digestion. By adding pecans to the recipe you will be including anti -inflammatory and immune boosting properties in this healthy alternative for dessert. Decrease the sugar and increase the nutrients!
Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe
Prep time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1.5 cups
- 1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2.5 tbsp natural maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp ground chia seeds
- 1/3 cup crushed pecans
- chocolate chips (optional addition)
Directions
- Drain and rinse chickpeas under cool water. Dry off with paper towel. Peel off the skins of chickpeas if possible (will make the dough more smooth).
- Add chickpeas, peanut butter, vanilla extract, maple syrup and cinnamon to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth. Add the ground chia seeds to the food processor. Blend until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Add chickpea cookie dough mixture to a small bowl. Fold in the pecans.
- Put in refrigerator for one hour then serve.
*Will keep in refrigerator for 3-5 days* - Enjoy!
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Contributor
Jenna Standish is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Reiki level one practitioner and RMT student. She gets excited about all things nutrition, fitness and personal development but her biggest passion of all is being a Mom to her sweet baby girl, Lennon. Since becoming a mother in 2017, Jenna’s dream has changed to guide and empower women to become the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves. She loves to motivate women to take control of their body, mind and spirit health so that they can show up as their best selves every day, especially for their families. Follow her on Instagram to receive tips, tricks, free recipes, health and wellness advice.
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