After our recent heat wave, refreshing rain brought cooler weather. The cooler winds make it the perfect time to do some baking. Loaves are great with coffee or tea, and as a dessert, or in lieu of a muffin. This carrot loaf is filled with healthy carrots. Carrots have several health benefits including being an excellent source of vitamin A, with 1/2 cup providing 210 percent of our daily needs. Nutrients naturally found in carrots also have been found to reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, lung and colon cancer. Carrots are protective of vision, our liver and brain. An interesting study has also discovered that carrots have anti-inflammatory effects that have been found to be significant when compared to aspirin and Ibuprofen. While many vegetables are best eaten raw, carrots are one food that benefits you to cook. If you are buying your carrots at the store, be aware that unfortunately “baby carrots” are processed in a chlorine bath; making them a less healthy choice than regular bagged carrots, so always be sure to wash the baby carrots well.
Cinnamon is naturally anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral. Studies have shown that these properties make cinnamon beneficial to fight an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the gut, such as Candida, fighting off bad bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities, and boosting the immune system to help fight off colds and the flu. It is known in the world of nutrition as a spice that helps to balance blood sugar. It can make the insulin hormone more sensitive and aids in reducing blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic, consult your doctor before consuming cinnamon regularly as it may influence your insulin needs. Cinnamon is anti-inflammatory. Cinnamon activates brain protective proteins, and can help defend the brain from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The antioxidants in cinnamon help protect the body and brain from ageing-related decline. Studies show that compounds in cinnamon may protect cells from DNA damage, cell mutation and cancer growth. The anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant combination, make it beneficial to those suffering from allergy symptoms. Cinnamon from Ceylon is the healthiest, as the cheaper cassia varieties contain more coumarin, which is toxic to the liver.
If you are doing dairy free, then use coconut or almond milk, or even water. I prefer to use unbleached flour, and organic is even better.
Carrot Loaf
1/2 cup oil
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 1/2 cups flour, unbleached
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon ginger
1 cup grated carrot
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan. Mix sugar and oil. Beat in the eggs. Stir in the milk. Add the flour, and then sprinkle on the baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ginger and stir in. Stir in the carrots.