Maple Banana Oatmeal Cookies
I may have packed most of my baking pans, but I kept my cookie sheets on the side. I am currently trying to empty out my pantry before we move because our belongings are going into storage for a few weeks and we will be living out of a hotel for a week or so until our new house is completed. So I am going to continue baking cookies and other goodies with the supplies I have left on hand and freeze them to take with us. For these cookies, I used up my maple butter, raisins, dark chocolate chips, rolled oats and a ripe banana. So much goodness packed into one cookie.
You can find the recipe for maple butter here. It is best to make it ahead of time and place in the fridge overnight.
My son loves bananas. They are great mashed up with some pure maple syrup or dulce de leche. I like mine on toast with peanut butter.
Mmmm…chocolate and raisins. Yeah, you are going to want to grab a spoon at this time and do a little taste testing.
I love the smell of banana as these were baking. I couldn’t wait for them to get out of the oven.
They came out thick and chewy. They are full of banana flavor with a hint of sweet maple flavor. And the flavors only get better when you bite into a chocolate chip or raisin. The banana also makes the cookies nice and moist.
Unfortunately, I did not get to freeze as many cookies as I would have liked. They seem to have gotten eaten fairly fast. That’s ok, I will bake up some more soon!
Maple Banana Oatmeal Cookies
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Keywords: bake snack dessert maple butter banana rolled oats whole wheat flour cookie American
Ingredients (36 cookies)
- 1/2 cup maple butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 medium banana, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350º F.
In a stand mixer cream together the butter and the sugars on medium speed.
Add egg,vanilla, and banana, and mix well.
In a medium bowl combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt until well blended, then slowly add to the wet ingredients.
Next add the rolled oats and mix on low until all incorporated.
Then add the raisins and chocolate chips and continue to mix on low until completely incorporated.
Then with a medium scoop, drop by scoopful onto a greased cookie sheet at least 2 inches apart.
Bake at 350º for 10 minutes or until the tops are a golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool for 2 minutes, then move to a cooling rack to completely cool.
Bet you can’t eat just one!
Are Turnips Acidic? Turnips and Acid Reflux
Introduction to Turnips and Digestive Health
Turnips, a root vegetable belonging to the Brassica family, are versatile and nutrient-rich. They’re often used in soups, stews, salads, and even roasted as a side dish. But for individuals managing acid reflux or following a low-acid diet, the acidity of turnips and their impact on digestion becomes an important consideration.
In this article, we’ll examine whether turnips are acidic or alkaline, how they affect acid reflux, and the best ways to include them in a reflux-friendly diet.
Nutritional Profile of Turnips
Turnips are low-calorie yet highly nutritious vegetables. A single cup of cooked turnips (about 130 grams) contains:
- Calories: 34
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams, including 3 grams of fiber.
- Vitamin C: 30% of the daily recommended intake, boosting immunity.
- Potassium: Supports healthy blood pressure and muscle function.
- Calcium: Promotes bone health.
- Antioxidants: Includes glucosinolates, compounds that have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.
Their low fat and calorie content make turnips ideal for a balanced diet, but their pH and potential effects on acid reflux warrant a closer look.
Understanding the Acidity of Turnips
Are Turnips Acidic or Alkaline?
Turnips are classified as slightly alkaline to neutral, with a pH level ranging from 6.5 to 6.8. Their natural alkalinity makes them a good choice for individuals with acid reflux or those trying to reduce the overall acidity in their diet.
Do Turnips Trigger Acid Reflux?
In general, turnips are not known to trigger acid reflux. Their alkaline nature helps neutralize stomach acid, which can soothe symptoms of acid reflux. However, some individuals may experience sensitivity to turnips due to their fiber content or preparation methods.
Author Tip: Are Turnip Greens Acidic?
Turnips and Acid Reflux
Why Turnips Are Good for Acid Reflux?
- Low Acidity: With a near-neutral pH, turnips are less likely to contribute to the overproduction of stomach acid.
- High Fiber Content: Turnips contain dietary fiber that promotes healthy digestion and helps prevent bloating or gas, which can aggravate reflux.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The glucosinolates in turnips may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, soothing irritation caused by acid reflux.
Potential Concerns with Turnips and Acid Reflux
While turnips are generally safe for acid reflux sufferers, there are a few potential issues to watch for:
- Gas and Bloating: The fiber in turnips may cause bloating in individuals with sensitive stomachs.
- Raw Turnips: Eating raw turnips may be harder on the stomach compared to cooked turnips, especially for those prone to digestive discomfort.
How to Safely Include Turnips in a GERD-Friendly Diet
To enjoy the benefits of turnips without triggering acid reflux, follow these guidelines:
Cooked vs. Raw Turnips
Cooked turnips are easier to digest than raw ones. Steaming, roasting, or boiling turnips softens their fibers and makes them gentler on the stomach.
Portion Control
Stick to moderate servings—around half a cup to one cup per meal. Overeating can put pressure on the stomach and worsen reflux symptoms.
Pairing with Non-Acidic Foods
Combine turnips with other alkaline or neutral foods such as leafy greens, potatoes, or whole grains to create balanced meals that are gentle on the digestive system.
Avoid High-Fat Preparations
Skip frying or heavy cream-based recipes, as high-fat dishes can slow digestion and trigger reflux.
Related to Read: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD
Health Benefits of Turnips Beyond Acid Reflux
Turnips offer numerous health benefits that make them a valuable addition to any diet:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
- Supports Heart Health: High potassium levels help regulate blood pressure.
- Aids Weight Management: Low in calories and high in fiber, turnips promote satiety and help with weight control.
- Boosts Immunity: Their high vitamin C content strengthens the immune system.
Delicious and GERD-Friendly Turnip Recipes
Mashed Turnips
- Ingredients: Boiled turnips, a splash of olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
- Preparation: Mash the turnips until smooth for a creamy, reflux-friendly side dish.
Roasted Turnips
- Ingredients: Diced turnips, olive oil, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Preparation: Roast at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown for a healthy, flavorful option.
Turnip Soup
- Ingredients: Cooked turnips, vegetable broth, and carrots.
- Preparation: Blend the ingredients for a creamy, soothing soup that’s easy on the stomach.
Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis
Tips for Managing Acid Reflux
Including turnips in your diet is a great start, but managing acid reflux often requires a combination of dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Here are some additional tips:
- Eat Smaller Meals: Overeating can put pressure on the stomach and trigger reflux.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Steer clear of spicy, fried, or acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes.
- Don’t Lie Down After Eating: Wait at least 2–3 hours before lying down to prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
- Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Use a wedge pillow or elevate the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water throughout the day to support digestion but avoid drinking large amounts during meals.
Conclusion
Turnips are a low-acid, nutrient-rich vegetable that can be a valuable addition to a reflux-friendly diet. Their alkaline nature, combined with high fiber and antioxidant content, makes them a safe and beneficial choice for most individuals with acid reflux. By cooking turnips and consuming them in moderation, you can enjoy their many health benefits without exacerbating digestive discomfort.
FAQs
Are turnips acidic or alkaline?
Turnips are slightly alkaline, with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 6.8, making them suitable for a low-acid diet.
Can turnips trigger acid reflux?
Turnips are generally reflux-friendly, but raw turnips or overeating may cause discomfort for some individuals.
Are cooked turnips better for acid reflux?
Yes, cooking turnips makes them easier to digest and less likely to cause reflux symptoms.
How much turnip can I eat with GERD?
Moderate servings, about half a cup to one cup per meal, are recommended to avoid triggering symptoms.
Can I include turnips in a low-acid diet?
Absolutely! Turnips are a great addition to a low-acid diet due to their near-neutral pH and digestive benefits.