Like so many other franchises, the Girl Scouts have now started offering gluten-free products. This year, their lineup of cookie flavors includes two gluten-free options.
However, while eliminating gluten is certainly a step in the right direction, it unfortunately does not mean the cookies are healthy.
Gluten-free goodies
A flavor called “Toffee-tastic” is the first of the two new gluten-free cookies. The Girl Scouts of America describes them as, “indulgently rich, buttery cookies with sweet, crunchy golden toffee bits. A gluten-free variety offered only in select Girl Scout council markets for as long as supplies last.”
As for nutritional content, the only allergen information listed is for milk and soy ingredients. However, they still contain 7 grams of sugar, and 140 calories for a two-cookie serving.
The second gluten-free cookie flavor is called “Trios.” Described by the Girl Scouts of America as, “chocolate chips nestled in a gluten-free peanut butter oatmeal cookie. Millions of Americans have problems eating food with gluten and now there is a Girl Scout Cookie just for them! Made with whole grain oats and real peanut butter, the Gluten-Free Trios is premiering in a number of test markets this year.”
According to the label, the allergen information is listed for soy, tree nuts, and peanuts. There are 11 grams of sugar and 170 calories in a three-cookie serving.
Why is gluten-free good?
As you probably know, about one percent of Americans have celiac disease, which means they have an abnormal immune response to gluten. This response can cause damage to the lining inside the small intestine and prevent nutrient absorption.
What you may not know is that even without celiac disease, some people are sensitive to gluten and can experience symptoms after eating foods like wheat, barley, and rye. These can vary greatly, and include digestive discomfort, fatigue, and inflammatory skin breakouts.
Should you run out and buy a box?
Just because the gluten is out, does that mean you should run out and buy a box of the cookies? Not if you value your health. Remember that they still contain significant amounts of sugar. There is no shortage of information about the health hazards of sugar.
Among many other detrimental side effects, sugar is linked to damaging the heart, promoting belly fat and fatty liver disease, impairing cognitive function, and raising your risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.
What can you do to satisfy your sweet tooth?
It just so happens that we have five yummy recipes for delectable, gluten-free chocolate treats that you are sure to love! Each one will tickle your taste buds, and best of all, they are made with organic coconut sugar or honey. What is the difference between organic coconut sugar and cane sugar, you may ask? The answer is: Plenty.
Coconut sugar is made from the sap of the coconut palm. Unlike table sugar, it has a low glycemic index, along with certain nutrients that nourish the body. Although it should still be used in moderation, enjoying a dessert made with organic coconut sugar is a great way to indulge every once in a while without risking the dangers of sugar.
So, for some safe and satisfying alternatives to sugary cookies, check out our delicious, gluten-free, no-sugar chocolate treats!
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.recipecorner.com/recipe/video/girl-scouts-go-gluten-free-new-cookie
http://www.girlscouts.org/program/gs_cookies/meet_the_cookies.asp
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/5-delectable-gluten-free-chocolate-recipes
http://authoritynutrition.com/why-is-fructose-bad-for-you
