Healthy homemade energy bars with using benefits of honey

HealthyTips - Honey itself is not a source of calcium, but researchers at Purdue University have found that consuming honey helps calcium from other dietary sources to be more easily absorbed in the body. Although more research is needed, the possibility that honey may aid in calcium absorption makes it an appealing addition to dishes featuring sources of calcium like milk, yogurt, and cheese.

Onetype of honey known to be particularly rich in antioxidants is Manuka honey, produced in New Zealand from the Manuka bush. The Manuka bush is more commonly known as the tea tree plant.

With a carbohydrate content of 17 grams per tablespoon, honey is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide quick, natural energy for athletes or anyone on the go who needs a healthy boost. Is well-known among athletes that consuming carbs before, after, and during exercise helps muscles recover from intense activity, prevent premature fatigue, and improve overall performance.

In the article Honey can serve as an effective carbohydrate replacement during exercise, researchers found that honey was just as effective as a sugar mixture in increasing endurance for nine male endurance athletes. These results suggest that honey may serve as an inexpensive alternative to sports gels. For the non-athlete, the quick, nutrient-rich boost that honey provides is a healthy alternative to caffeine or sugary candy bars that anyone can feel good about.

Liquid honey is about 1 to 1½ times sweeter tasting than sugar, yet it has a lower calorie content.

Below are recipe fora great-tasting and nutritious energy bar recipe featuring honey :

Pack-Along Snack Bars

Make s 48 servings

ingredients

4 cups rolled oats

1 cup flaked coconut

1 cup wheat germ

1 cup almonds, choppe d

1 te aspoon cinnamon

1 te aspoon salt

½ cup vegetable  oil

1 cup honey

1 te aspoon vanilla

Directions

In a 9x13-inch pan combine oats, coconut, wheat germ, nuts, cinnamon and salt. Set aside. In a bowl, blend together oil, honey and vanilla. Pour over dry ingredients and mix until well coated. Bake at 350°F 25 to 30 minutes, stirring four times during baking. Press hot mixture into a greased 10×15-inch jelly roll pan using a rolling pin. Cool and cut into 48 bars.

Microwave Method:

Microwave granola mixture on HIGH 10 to 12 minutes, stirring every 4 minutes until toasted. Continue as above.