Simple, fast, delicious

“Baking doesn’t have to be complicated.”

-Jennifer, Clinical Nutritionist

Coconut meat is nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5 and B6, and minerals like iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorous.

Coconut is a rich source of medium chain fatty acids. These fats are broken down faster than long chain fatty acids, they don't contribute to high cholesterol, and may even raise levels of good cholesterol in your body. Because of the way they are metabolized, they become more easily available for your body to use as energy compared to some other fats like long chain fatty acids.

Long chain fatty acids play a role in the development of insulin resistance increasing your risk for diabetes, and they promote fat accumulation. Medium chain fatty acids on the other hand may be associated with increased oxidative metabolism, reduced fat accumulation, and may have a beneficial impact on insulin signaling in the body.

Ingredients:

2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (or to your taste)
1/2 tsp vanilla
5 egg whites
Chocolate chips

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl
Place tablespoon sized 'dough' on a parchment lined cookie sheet
Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes
Let cool and serve

Makes about 1 dozen macaroons

Enjoy!

Jennifer Brand, MPH, MS, CNS is a clinical nutritionist helping children with dry, flaky, weepy, red, itchy, painful rashes navigate the journey to healthy skin and enjoy a childhood free from disruptive skin symptoms.