Prediabetes-Friendly Oatmeal Cookies with Nuts and Seeds

Ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup honey or natural sweetener (e.g., stevia)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, almond flour, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, mix together applesauce, honey or natural sweetener, and vanilla extract.

4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.

5. Fold in chopped walnuts and chia seeds.

6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.

7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.

8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Why these ingredients?

• Oats: High in fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.

• Almond flour: Low in carbohydrates and rich in healthy fats and protein.

• Unsweetened applesauce: Replaces refined sugar and adds moisture.

• Honey or natural sweetener: Low-glycemic sweetener options.

• Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

• Chia seeds: High in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Nutritional information (per cookie):

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Sodium: 50mg
Sugar: 5g

Tips for prediabetes management:

• Choose complex carbohydrates: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

• Incorporate healthy fats: Nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil.

• Select low-glycemic sweeteners: Honey, stevia, or monk fruit.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Consult with a healthcare professional: Develop a personalized plan for managing prediabetes.

• Enjoy your delicious and healthy cookies!