Tag: cocoa

Cocoa Black Bean Brownies (Heart-Healthy)

A rich, moist dessert with few of the typical brownie ingredients.

Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the number one killer in the world? People with PCOS commonly experience metabolic syndrome which increases the risk of developing heart disease. Metabolic syndrome is a combination of conditions including elevated triglycerides, high “bad” cholesterol, low “good” cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and increased belly fat.

Fortunately, each day most of us can help decrease our risk of developing heart disease. Nutritional intake is important with some evidence suggesting to decrease saturated fats and other evidence to decrease trans fats. Decreasing salt intake is also recommended while increasing phytonutrient, fiber-rich foods, like fruits and vegetables. Secondly, regular exercise can reduce body weight, blood pressure, “bad ” cholesterol and increase insulin sensitivity. In addition, sleep deprivation has been shown to increase the risk of heart disease and related conditions. Finally, quitting smoking is the single greatest change one can make to improve their heart and overall health.

You may be wondering where brownies fit into a heart-healthy lifestyle. Surprisingly, these delicious, fudgy treats are primarily made from black beans and unsweetened cocoa powder! Carry on to find out how these two ingredients can make a crowd-pleasing dessert that can support a healthy heart. PS. The trick is to not reveal the ingredients until AFTER your loved ones have tried the brownies. I promise they will be shocked. I would love to hear what you do to protect your heart!

Vegan Gluten-Free Black Bean Brownies

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups dried black beans (must pre-soak and boil)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (>75% real cocoa)

How to:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
  2. Blend all ingredients, except chocolate chips, in a food processor until completely smooth.
  3. Stir in the chocolate chips.
  4. Pour into an 8×8 pan pre-greased with olive oil.
  5. Cook for 15-20 minutes being careful not to overcook as this could dry them out.
  6. Let brownies cool before cutting. I popped these in the freezer to firm up even more.

Vegan Gluten-Free Black Bean Brownies

PCOS Powers:

Black beans:

  • high in protein, fiber, potassium, magnesium, folate, vitamin B6 and phytonutrients
  • may help lower blood pressure, manage blood sugar levels, and prevent cardiovascular disease
  • contain several flavonoids including quercetin which is anti-inflammatory and may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis

Unsweetened cocoa powder:

  • may support the cardiovascular system by enhancing vascular function and decreasing platelet reactivity
  • may help improve cholesterol levels
  • has been shown to improve cognitive function, insulin resistance and blood pressure
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Chocolate Raspberry Protein Shake

A frosty smoothie packed with antioxidants.

There is something sweet and elegant about the combination of raspberries and chocolate. I love drinking this protein shake after hitting the gym. Although the jury is still out on whether timing protein intake around resistance training in fact leads to greater strength gains, evidence does suggest that our overall daily protein intake plays an important role in building muscle and strength (1, 2). My experience with plant-based protein powders has confirmed they aren’t the most appealing supplement (so gritty!). Over time I have mastered masking the unpleasant flavor and texture by making shakes like this one. Simply toss all the ingredients in a blender and you are done!

Chocolate Raspberry Protein Shake

Ingredients:

  • 1 scoop plant-based protein powder (organic, non-GMO)
  • 1 cup frozen raspberries, organic if possible
  • 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup water
  • handful of ice cubes

Chocolate Raspberry Protein Shake

PCOS Powers:

  • raspberries = low glycemic load, high in antioxidants, high in fibre, may help lower inflammation and prevent cancer
  • cocoa = high in antioxidants, may lower LDL cholesterol, can reduce high blood pressure, and may act as an antidepressant
  • plant-based protein = helps decrease high cholesterol and manage insulin resistance, helps build lean muscle mass

References:

  1. Saris, W. H. M., et al. “Protein Supplementation Augments the Adaptive Response of Skeletal Muscle to Resistance-Type Exercise Training: A Meta-Analysis.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 96.6 (2012): 1454-64.
  2. Schoenfeld, Brad Jon, Alan Albert Aragon, and James W. Krieger. “The Effect of Protein Timing on Muscle Strength and Hypertrophy: A Meta-Analysis.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 10.1 (2013): 53-65.