Homemade Granola Bars

Time for a lesson on healthy carbs, specifically oats! Many people are afraid of carbs, but they should actually account for 45%-65% of you total daily calories. Choosing a healthy carbohydrate to consume is best, such as those containing whole grains and fiber. 

Oats are just one of these healthy carbohydrates. They are a source of viscous fiber, meaning that they slow glucose absorption and inhibit cholesterol absorption in the small intestine. By slowing the absorption of glucose and inhibiting cholesterol uptake, the regulation of blood glucose level will be better maintained, and diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease will be prevented. 

Fibrous carbohydrates also allow you to feel fuller longer, which is never a bad thing especially for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Try these homemade granola bars and keep loading up on healthy carbs and fiber!

Homemade Granola Bars 
Recipe by: The Cheerful Cook
Total time: 10 minutes (active), 2 hours (freezing)
Serves: 12-16

Ingredients 
2 cups old-fashioned oats (toasted is optional)
1 cup add-ins of choice (almonds, chocolate, dried fruit, coconut, etc.)
3/4 cup natural peanut butter
1/3 cup honey 

Directions 
1. Line jelly roll pan with plastic wrap. 
2. Toast oats, if desired, and combine with add-ins of choice in a medium bowl (if using chocolate, add after bars have been formed on jelly roll pan and before they are put in the freezer). 
3. Heat peanut butter and honey together in a sauce pan until melted. 
4. Pour mixture over oats and stir. 
5. Spread bars evenly on plastic wrap on jelly roll pan. Wrap bars completely in plastic and put in freezer. Freeze for 1-2 hours. 
6. Best stored in refrigerator or freezer.

Tip: For easy add-ins, choose your favorite, healthy trail mix from the store! 

*Nutrition information from Contemporary Nutrition: A Functional Approach, by Gordon M. Wardlaw, Anne M. Smith, and Angela L. Collene.