By Lucy Yanckello, Ph.D.
Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries.
Most everyone loves the sometimes crunchy, often chewy treat known as the cookie. Everyone has a favorite, be it the classic chocolate chip or the less loved (but still delicious) oatmeal raisin. Just like other sweet treats, cookies are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
What’s in an oatmeal raisin cookie? What are the advantages and disadvantages of oatmeal raisin cookies?
Like most cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies are made with flour, butter, baking soda, and eggs. However, oatmeal raisin cookies also contain oats and raisins, as the name implies. The oats in oatmeal raisin cookies are whole grains that provide complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Both of these categories of carbohydrates provide long-lasting energy and keep you full for long periods of time. Additionally, raisins are a good source of fiber and phytochemicals. Phytochemicals play a role in strengthening our immune systems. However, these ingredients are not present in high enough amounts in an oatmeal raisin cookie to make much of a difference. That said, oatmeal raisin cookies are a healthier choice than other types but sugar and butter are ingredients in general that should be eaten in moderation.
Is an oatmeal raisin cookie healthier than a chocolate chip cookie?
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a healthier choice in comparison to chocolate chip cookies. Chocolate chip cookies have less protein and fiber, and more fat, than oatmeal raisin cookies. Although both types of cookies should be enjoyed in moderation, oatmeal raisin cookies do provide more health benefits than chocolate chip cookies.
Are oatmeal raisin cookies a healthy snack?
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a healthier snack choice than other cookies because they contain whole grain oats and raisins. Both whole grain oats and raisins are a good source of fiber. The presence of whole grain oats will also help you stay fuller longer. That said, oatmeal raisin cookies are still cookies with higher butter and sugar content than other snacks, so they should only be considered a healthy snack in moderation.
Are oatmeal raisin cookies good for weight loss?
The oats in oatmeal raisin cookies are whole grains that provide complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Both of these categories of carbohydrates provide long-lasting energy keeping you full for long periods of time. Feeling fuller for longer is an important part of losing weight. Additionally, fiber may help reduce blood cholesterol levels and lower risk of heart disease, and fiber is also important for proper bowel function. That said, oatmeal raisin cookies are still cookies with butter and sugar, which contribute to weight gain, so they should be eaten in moderation.
Do oatmeal raisin cookies raise blood sugar?
Oatmeal raisin cookies are still sweets, so they will still have an effect on blood sugar. However, due to the added fiber, oatmeal raisin cookies have a lower glycemic index than other cookies.
For those with diabetes, whole grains are more optimal for controlling blood sugars. High-glycemic index (GI) foods lead to rapid blood sugar spikes, whereas low-GI foods, such as oatmeal raisin cookies, absorb more slowly and prevent blood sugar spikes.
Are oatmeal raisin cookies good for diabetics?
Oatmeal raisin cookies contain whole grain oats with complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. These carbohydrates provide long-lasting energy keeping you full for long periods of time. This slow-burning type of energy in oatmeal raisin cookies prevents spikes in blood sugar which is important for diabetics.
Where can I buy oatmeal raisin cookies and chocolate chip cookies online?
At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, baked goods, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular cookies include oatmeal raisin cookies and chocolate chunk cookies. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods.
About the Author
Lucy Yanckello received her Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. She currently works as a medical writer and enjoys being able to help people better understand nutrition and science.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
