simple sprouted chocolate chip granola bars
Did you know that plants actually protect themselves against predators and environmental factors? They are called anti-nutrients and they protect seeds from premature germination and ward off predators. These anti-nutrients are present in beans, seeds, nuts, grains and pseudo grains (rice, quinoa, corn).
The problem is that when we eat these foods, the anti-nutrients bind to minerals, preventing their absorption, and contributing to mineral deficiency. This can lead to bone loss, irritable bowl and even neurological damage. Some even work as enzyme inhibitors, blocking production of necessary enzymes needed for proper breakdown and digestion of starches and proteins. Without the proper breakdown of food, your digestive system can become overstressed; which can damage your intestinal lining, leading to bacterial overgrowth and leaky gut.
Traditional methods of soaking, sprouting, and fermenting neutralize most of the anti-nutrients, increase bioavailability of beneficial nutrients, and improve digestibility (source).
You can sprout easily in your kitchen, but luckily, you can find already sprouted nuts, seeds, and grains in your local health food store or online.
Try these easy homemade granola bars. They are sweetened with natural sugars and filled with good fats for your brain health! If you think your kids won’t like the seeds, you can leave them out!
SIMPLE SPROUTED CHOCOLATE CHIP GRANOLA BARS
1 1/2 cup sprouted organic oats (I use this)
1/2 cup shredded organic coconut (I use this)
1/4 tsp. sea salt
1/4 cup sprouted organic pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (I use this and THIS) Optional
2 eggs
2 tbs. raw honey or maple syrup (can do 1 tbs if you want less sugar or 3 TBS if you want it sweeter!)
1 tbs. vanilla extract
1/4 cup chocolate chips (I use this)
Preheat oven to 350. Line a 9 x 12 baking dish with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix eggs, honey and vanilla extract. Add in oats, coconut, seeds of choice, and chocolate chips. Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges turn a bit brown. Take off of the parchment paper and cool it on a rack. Enjoy!