Cookies to support your hormones and your gut!
These cookies include a couple of key ingredients for robust hormonal health.
Maca: Maca is a tuber that is rich in vitamins C, A, B6, and Niacin. It is also a wonderful source of minerals such as zinc, calcium, iron, copper, magnesium, potassium, iodine, and fatty acids- all of which are important for adequate hormone production. Research has supported Maca's role in supporting fertility in both men and woman. In one research study it was concluded that maca increased the sperm count and quality in both infertile and healthy men. In another study Maca demonstrated to have a positive effect on sexual dysfunction in healthy menopausal women. Maca acts on the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal axis). By doing so Maca can help support our adrenals, ovaries, and other master organs responsible for hormone production.
Flax seeds: Flax contains phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring substances found in foods that may mimic the role of estrogen in the body. Lignans, are the kind of phytoestrogens found in flaxseed. Research has shown that in postmenopausal women, lignans can cause the body to produce less active forms of estrogen thus reducing breast cancer risk. Evidence has also demonstrated that adding ground flaxseeds to the diet decreases cell growth in breast tissue. Flax also contains fiber. Fiber is an important part of a well rounded diet to help the body bind excess and damaged estrogens in the gut to be removed via the bowels.
Ingredients
3/4 cup almond butter
3 tbsp coconut oil
1/3 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp. Vanilla
1 egg
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup blanched almond flour
2 tbsp Maca
1 tbsp ground flax seeds
1/4 tsp. Baking soda
DF Chocolate chips as preferred
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease 1 large baking sheet
Combine almond butter, coconut oil (softened), organic coconut sugar, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla. Whisk together until fully blended.
Slowly add dry ingredients into wet ingredients and mix until fully combined,
Add chocolate chips
Form into cookie balls
Bake until golden brown ~25 minutes (I prefer a slight crunch, bake for less time if not preferred).
*As always quality is important! If you find maca bothers your stomach or makes you feel badly- choose maca that has been produced in Peru and in a gelatinized form. It should also be organic and sustainably grown.
*Because Maca may lead to an increase in estrogen production if you are dealing with estrogen dominance or related conditions talk to your healthcare team to decide if Maca is good for you!
Research