Carrot Raisin Flax Muffins

Flax has a high content of alpha linolenic acid, a type of plant-derived omega-3 fatty acid, which is similar to those found in salmon. It is also rich in lignan, a type phytoestrogen (antioxidant ) and also provides fiber (both soluble and insoluble). Flax seeds are high in most of the B vitamins, magnesium, and manganese.

Flax may help to lower cholesterol, protect against heart disease, control high blood pressure, and reduce cancer risk (breast, colon, prostate, and skin). It may also help prevent Type 2 diabetes or lessen the severity of diabetes by stabilizing blood-sugar levels. Its combination of healthy fat and high fiber make it a great food for weight loss and maintenance.

Flax seeds need to be ground to make the nutrients available. Whole seeds keep longer than ground flax seeds but if you don’t want to grind your own, sealing and storing in the refrigerator will help keep ground flax from becoming rancid.

These muffins are a delicious and easy way to add flax seeds into your diet. If you don’t have soy flour, you may substitute more whole wheat flour, other whole grain flour, or all purpose flour instead. These muffins freeze well so you can grab one out of the freezer and microwave for 30 seconds for a warm tasty breakfast or snack.

Carrot Raisin Flax Muffins

Servings : 12

1/2 cup flax seed meal
2 cups grated carrot
1/2 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
3/4 cup soy flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
2 eggs
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt
1/2 cup raisins

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease muffin pan or add paper liners.

Beat eggs and sugar until light and thick. Stir in orange juice and yogurt. Fold in carrots.

Sift dry ingredients together, and stir into carrot mixture until just blended. (don't over mix) Pour into muffins pans.

Bake 20-25 minutes.


Nutrition: 151 Calories; 4g Fat; 6g Protein; 24g Carbohydrate; 4g Dietary Fiber; 36mg Cholesterol; 223mg Sodium.