Almonds are a great source of magnesium and calcium, two minerals that have shown strong links to having a good night sleep. Calcium is essential in the conversion of melatonin from the amino acid tryptophan in the brain, melatonin being a key sleep-inducing hormone. Research has also shown that during deep states of sleep the levels of calcium in our bodies is at a much higher concentration. A number of studies have also shown that a diet high in magnesium is associated with a deeper, undisturbed sleep, and further to this, insomnia and poor sleep are both symptoms of magnesium deficiency.
There’s lots of factors that play a role in a good night sleep, having a bedtime routine with ‘wind down’ time or avoiding LED/white lights around an hour before bed both promote melatonin production. But one thing is for sure, that good-quality sleep is a strong factor linked to weight loss and weight maintenance, as it’s the key time for your body to restore itself. So we’ve whipped up this tasty treat, packed with the goodness of almonds to set you up with the tools for the best night sleep.
Makes 14
Ingredients
¼ cup honey
2 egg whites
½ cup almond meal
1/3 cup slivered almonds, finely chopped
1½ cups shredded coconut
1 tsp vanilla extract
Method
- Preheat oven to 180°C.
- Prep & make mixture. In a large bowl, whisk together honey and egg whites for about 30 seconds, until combined. Add almonds, coconut and vanilla and mix to combine.
- Make macaroons. Using a tablespoon measure and clean, damp hands roll mixture into balls, then flatten slightly into a cookie shape. Place on a lined oven tray and bake for about 12 minutes, until the base of the macaroon is golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
Nutritional Info (per serve)
Energy (kJ): 542
Energy (Cal): 130
Carbohydrate (g): 6.8
Protein (g): 2.6
Fat (g): 10.1
Saturated Fat (g): 6.0
Sugars (g): 5.9
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