The first cookies were made to replace bread, a common food for soldiers and sailors. No person could resist its crunchy texture and rich fillings, although its true boom began in the 19th century. Around this time, sugar, butter, and spices were incorporated into the dough. It is not surprising that the pantries were full of cookies on expeditions to Mount Everest or during the conquest voyages of Christopher Columbus. However, its consumption has been discussed since its ingredients could compromise our health. Discover the benefits and consequences of eating these appetizers.
Hands in the cookie dough!
Making cookies at home is an opportunity to involve children in culinary activities. They enjoy selecting the recipes and gathering the ingredients at the table to begin the preparation.
Use whole wheat flour or oats instead of white flour for a healthy option. Substitute dried fruit for sugar, and add yoghurt, almonds or other nuts, and eggs for crunch. As they mix, they can talk about the nutritional value of the ingredients and explain the importance of making nutritious snacks.Â
ingredients to avoid
Industrialized cookies are commonly made with hydrogenated fat. That is, they contain saturated trans fats that are not healthy. For example, sodium from baking powder, sugar or corn syrup adds to the products that experts recommend avoiding. They could be harmful to health as they lead to the formation of fat, increasing the risk of diabetes and fatty liver.
However, you can study the nutritional value of the cookies you like the most. Take the time to read the product information. It is a very good idea before purchasing any food.
Watch out for the cookies!
It is normal to hear how certain foods are being debated. Surely you know what is related to cookies: they gain weight, they are harmful, and children should not eat many. What do you think?
Although many are very well sold, some people should not consume them. Everything is related to your lifestyle, don’t forget it. Keep in mind that when you make the cookies at home, in addition to giving yourself a treat, you look after the well-being of your family. Therefore, you should not cling to a diet that exonerates them when you have in your hands the way to reduce the possible negative effects.
Having clarified the above, we will study the pros and cons of eating cookies.
ADVANTAGE
nutritious. The consumption of cookies provides energy thanks to the macronutrients, vitamins and minerals they contain.
You decide. Its energy intake varies easily, allowing you to choose the amount taken at any time.
Rich combinations. You can eat them alone or combined with milk, yoghurt, cheese, fruit and chocolate.
Time for you. They are companions for movie nights or the perfect excuse to cook at home.
They prevent anaemia. They provide iron, a mineral that participates in the transportation of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood and the production of haemoglobin.
Better musculature. They contain magnesium, a mineral that, according to the Spanish Heart Foundation (FED), is involved in nerve impulse transmission and muscle relaxation.
Magnesium also participates in the regulation of phosphorus and calcium metabolism.
Strong bones. Thanks to its vitamin D content, it promotes bone health and participates in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.
Antioxidants. Due to their contribution of vitamin C, they are a food with antioxidant properties; the vitamin helps absorb iron.
Against osteoporosis. They provide:
- Calcium.
- The mineral that makes up bones and teeth.
- Calcium_Contributes to dental and bone health.
Calcium is also involved in the transmission of nerve impulses.
Drinks. We suggest accompanying your animal-shaped cookies with tea or coffee without sugar (240 ml).
The best options are chamomile, lemon, peppermint, or flower tea.
Portion. It is suggested to consume up to 6 pieces of animal-shaped cookies. Eating 24 pieces of these cookies would provide 113 calories.
DISADVANTAGES
Dangerous sugar. As sugar is one of the active components in the preparation of cookies, it must be remembered that an excess of this ingredient is harmful to health.
Overeating. If your metabolism changes easily with the smallest portion you eat, you may have to watch your intake of cookies and other sweets, or you could gain several kilos.