Chocolate Cherry Almond Granola

One of our primary goals for optimal health is to emphasize whole, homemade food, made from ingredients we can not only pronounce, but recognize as food. So, while this may not fit into the eat-it-regularly category, if you’re on the hunt for something sweet, consider this a reduced-consequence solution.

You could call this granola a lot of things:

An indulgent breakfast.

A healthy treat.

A deconstructed cookie.

I call it yum-in-a-bowl-with-benefits.

As we learn to nourish our bodies as Thyroid Thrivers and come to know our specific sensitivities, allergies, and triggers, our diets will continue to change. Eliminating foods like grains and sugar are common practice among those trying to heal themselves through food. And truth be told, I rarely eat grains if I can help it these days.

But sometimes, I find a granola-type treat necessary. I also love to give granola-type gifts. And I especially love anything with dark chocolate and dark cherries in the mix

_{^{Full disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Purchasing a product using one of these links will support my work at no additional cost to you. Please know that I only recommend products I wholeheartedly stand by.}}

In the mood for another granola recipe? Try this! Coconut Macadamia Granola

Thyroid-healthy Highlights:

• Chocolate contains sugar and can contain soy lecithin, both of which many with thyroid issues choose to avoid. However, dark chocolate (when consumed in moderation) can be a good source of trace minerals like copper and manganese. Carefully check the label for milk solids (hidden dairy), and soy. It’s become easier to find brands that omit these ingredients.
• Oats, as long as they are processed on equipment that does not process other gluten-containing grains, are naturally gluten-free. Removing gluten from your diet is the most common recommendation in terms of adopting a thyroid-friendly diet.
• Coconut oil has been touted for its potential benefits to thyroid health, as well as anti-inflammatory properties, and even weight loss. It is high in healthy fats, lauric acid, and medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs).
• Cherries, especially tart cherries, are ranked as one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory foods you can eat. They are also a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C.
• Sea salt is a natural source of iodine as well as numerous other bioavailable trace minerals.

 Happy cooking, happy thriving, and enjoy the recipe (below)!

P.S. Need more thyroid-friendly recipe inspiration? I’ve got you covered. My Thyroid-friendly Everyday eCookbook features over 50 quick and easy, thyroid-friendly recipes your whole family will love. To take a peek at what’s inside, CLICK HERE.

 

More Thyroid-Healthy Breakfast Recipes:

• AIP Tiger Nut Smoothie Bowl
• AIP Zucchini Basil Breakfast Soup
• AIP Lamb Hash with Carrot and Celery Root
• Banana Orange Creamsicle Collagen Smoothie
• BLT Deviled Eggs
• Horchata Chia Pudding