Are Oatmeal Cookies Healthier Than Chocolate Chip?
When you’re on a diet, are oatmeal cookies healthier than chocolate chip? These nutritious cookies are a great way to give your body a boost. They are also full of antioxidants and fiber, and can help control your appetite. However, they are still a treat and should be eaten in moderation.
Oats have been shown to lower blood sugar levels. In addition, oats are associated with weight loss and reduced risk of heart disease. For a more health-conscious diet, opt for oatmeal raisin cookies. This type of cookie contains less fat and fiber than chocolate chip cookies. However, it still has a high amount of calories and sugar. If you are concerned about your waistline, try replacing some of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup, or coconut oil.
Oats are also a good source of dietary fiber. They are high in protein and potassium. While raisins add flavor, they are also a rich source of iron and folate. Adding ground flax seed to the recipe increases the omega-3 fatty acids. Other ingredients that increase the nutritional value of oatmeal raisin cookies include dried fruit and bran cereal crumbs.
Although oatmeal raisin cookies have fewer calories and fat than chocolate chip cookies, they still contain a large amount of both. The difference is in the amount of sugar and the level of nutrient content. Some oatmeal raisin cookies may have about 1.5 grams of fiber, while an average chocolate chip cookie has about 138 calories.
As with any baked goods, oatmeal raisin cookies should be eaten in moderation. They are still higher in sodium than other types of snacks. Excessive sodium increases your risk of stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure. It can also lead to high blood pressure. A healthy diet should have a balanced combination of carbohydrates and proteins, so if you choose to eat oatmeal raisin cookies, remember to balance the cookies with other foods.
Another way to improve the nutrition of oatmeal raisin cookies is to use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole-grain flour provides a gram or two of fiber per serving. You can also replace the brown sugar with maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. Or, if you want to keep your oatmeal cookies gluten-free, try using certified gluten-free oats.
Oatmeal raisin cookies can also be frozen, which helps make the dough more tender. To freeze the dough, simply place it on a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet and place in a freezer-safe storage bag. Freeze the cookies until you are ready to bake them. Bake the frozen cookies adding a couple minutes to the baking time.
Besides their health benefits, oatmeal raisin cookies are an easy, delicious treat. Try pairing them with dark chocolate for an even more satisfying snack.
As with most baked goods, oatmeal raisin cookies can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days. Just keep them away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat sources.
