This Oatmeal Topping Can Help You Reach Your Body Goals

This Oatmeal Topping Can Help You Reach Your Body Goals

Bodyrock.tv|BodyRock

Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health have found that a healthy dose of lignans can help your waistline remain trim. What the heck are lignans? It is a compound found in plants that can have a really positive impact on your body. Some lignans may boost your cardiovascular health, guard your body from hazardous free radicals, and even shield against breast cancer. They can be found in a number of high fibre plant foods like flaxseed, sesame seed, legumes and whole grains. This latest study found that females who ate foods rich in lignans, gained less weight than women not eating lignans. 

The study looked at 1,000 women over a 10-year timeframe. So adding a spoonful of flax to your breakfast oatmeal is the easiest way to get your lignans but if you're looking for something fancier, you're in luck! Try this recipe from, Ali Waks-Adams, a freelance chef and kitchen coach based in Maine:

Toaster Oven Breakfast Granola: Two Ways

yield: 4-6 servings

• 1 egg white
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup flaxseed
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey

1. Whip egg white until froth and add all other ingredients. Mix well and toast in toaster oven on medium heat (or oven at 350º F) for 12 to 15 minutes until crunchy. Add unsweetened, dried fruit if you’d like (we’re a big fan of cherries). 

Want to make it savory? Remove sea salt and replace maple syrup with one tablespoon tamari or soy sauce and one tablespoon raw honey. Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (or vegan equivalent), a teaspoon of sesame seeds and a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

 You can serve both versions as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt. The savory version pairs particularly well with unsweetened, plain Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, and whatever fresh herbs you have on hand like parsley, mint, dill or basil. Delish! Are you a regular consumer of flaxseed? Tell us the creative ways you add lignan rich foods to your diet? Source: SELF