Forget Chips and Popcorn: Try This Instead

If you are like me or many of my health coaching clients, we grew up with learned behaviors surrounding mindless grazing throughout the day, often on processed snacks such as chips, popcorn and the like. Over time, consuming a diet heavy in empty carbohydrates can lead to digestive issues and an increased risk of many health issues including cardiovascular disease.

This was me years ago- heading down a path toward disease due to poor food choices. Once I learned about holistic nutrition, specifically the paleo diet of our ancestors, I realized the need to change my snacking (and meal) habits. For more information, check  out our recommended NHD Paleo Pyramid.

Some Benefits of Coconut for Heart Health:

• Several populations around the globe have thrived while eating a large amount of coconut, and studies show they have good heart health and low rates of heart disease.

• The MCT oil found in coconut has been found to increase the number of calories burned over 24 hours by as much as 5%. MCT oils have been found to decrease appetite as well. These findings are helpful considering that obesity is one of the major risk factors for developing heart disease.

• Research has shown that coconut oil can raise blood levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, which is linked to improved metabolic health and a lower risk of all types of heart disease.

Salt & Vinegar Coconut Chips- recipe contributed by Lori Satterwhite, FNTP

This heart-healthy coconut chip recipe serves as a tasty nutrient dense snack that provides that “crunch” you may be missing in your diet these days. Try substituting the vinegar for ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a new flavor punch!

Ingredients:

1 c of unsweetened dried coconut

1 tsp of sea salt (or to taste)

1 tsp of coconut vinegar or organic apple cider vinegar

1/2 tsp of coconut nectar (omit if sugar free diet is needed)

Directions:

Place the coconut flakes in a large skillet heated to medium-low. Toast for a few minutes, flipping the flakes to heat both sides. Heat until lightly golden brown. Remove from heat and place on a paper towel lined plate. Sprinkle chips with salt, coconut vinegar, and coconut nectar. Allow to cool. Enjoy!