Improve blood pressure. High-fiber ingredients like oats and flax seeds have been shown to help reduce blood pressure ( 8, 9). One of the best things about this simple homemade granola is the fact that you can make a huge batch over the weekend and enjoy it all week. It is the perfect healthy meal-prep recipe for people rushed in the mornings! Plus, this healthy granola is super customizable; use any type of nuts and easily double the recipe. Your kids and family will love it! Here's a sample of nutrition information for a 2/3 cup serving of Quaker® low-fat granola with raisins: I love using real maple syrup in my granola. Honey works great, too. As a bonus, these natural sweeteners infuse your granola extra-delicious flavor that sugar would not. Salt and Spice Reduce cholesterol levels. Oats are a good source of beta glucan, a type of fiber that works to reduce total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, two risk factors for heart disease ( 10, 11).

If you’d like to add unsweetened coconut flakes, you can add it halfway through baking for perfectly toasted results (see recipe note). Oil helps make this granola crisp and irresistible. I prefer unrefined coconut oil, which is delicious (you can barely taste the coconut, if at all) and produces the perfect texture.Although there’s little scientific research on granola itself, common ingredients, including oats, flax seeds, chia seeds, and almonds, are linked to numerous health benefits. Filling and high in fiber I added cinnamon to this batch for some subtle warming spice. Ground ginger (use half as much) and pumpkin spice blends are other options. Dried Fruit

My favorite thing about this simple and easy granola recipe (besides the taste of course) is how easy they are to make! This recipe is the absolute perfect addition to any meal; plus, this nutty granola is vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free!

As such, watch out for ingredients like chocolate chips, honey, and dried fruit with added sugar. Summary Triple Coconut Granola: This recipe calls for coconut oil, large coconut flakes and shredded coconut. Eating too much sugar may increase your risk of many conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, cavities, and even some types of cancer ( 20, 21, 22, 23, 24). Look for brands with more grains, oats, seeds, and dried fruit, and avoid granola with added sweeteners or honey. Alternatively, you could make your own granola! Portion control is also important to avoid consuming excess calories. It may be helpful to measure out one or two servings first, so you don’t overeat. How to Prepare Granola Fats like vegetable oil, coconut oil, and nut butters are often included to help bind the ingredients, add flavor, and aid in the toasting process.