Maximilian Bircher-Benner
Muesli is a breakfast food made of uncooked rolled oats, fruit and nuts. It was first introduced by Swiss physician Maximilian Bircher-Benner who is famous for discovering the benefits of a diet of raw vegetables and fruit.
Here is the Original Bircher-Benner Recipe.
One serving consists approximately of:
1 tablespoon rolled oats, soaked in 2–3 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cream
200 grams apple (about one large, preferably a sour variety), finely grated and mixed with the above directly before serving
optionally top with 1 tablespoon ground hazelnuts or almonds
Why eat muesli? All that raw food packed into one small bowl and covered with your choice of milk, yogurt or non-dairy milk provides you with an excellent start to the day! Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits you get from the ingredients in my Best Ever Muesli Recipe.
rolled oats: Oats are an excellent source of thiamine, iron, and dietary fibre. Oats are the only source of antioxidant compounds known as avenanthramides which are believed to have properties that protect us from arteriosclerosis. Oats contain beta-glucan, which may help control blood glucose levels and stimulate the immune system to fight off bacterial infections.
walnuts: Most nuts are high in monounsaturated fatty acids. Walnuts, however, are high in polyunsaturated fatty acids. Current research suggests that eating a handful of raw walnuts when eating food high in saturated fat may lessen of the effect the harmful fat has on our arteries. Walnuts also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
dried cranberries: Among its many nutritional benefits, cranberries are high in vitamin C and fibre, are a source of polyphenol antioxidants. These antioxidants are being studied for their possible benefits to the cardiovascular system, immune system, and as anti-cancer agents.Consumption of cranberries are also a well-known aid for preventing urinary tract infections.
dried blueberries: Blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant capacities of all fruits. They contain a wide range of micro-nutrients, including manganese, vitamin C, vitamin K and provide and excellent source of dietary fibre. Blueberries are being studied for their role in fighting inflammation and cancer.
unsweetened coconut: Coconut is an amazing food that provides a stunning array of health benefits. Improved cardiovascular health and the ability to positively influence fat-burning are just a couple of coconuts attributes.Go to the Coconut Research Center's page to read more
fresh grated apple: Ahhh - the wonderful apple! Studies suggest that apples may reduce the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer. Apples help regulate blood pressure and anti-asthma benefits as well. What's not to like about this fruit?
There are now many delicious muesli recipes and I will add one of my own. Go to Best Ever Muesli on my Recipes page to see my yummy gluten-free version of this excellent way to start your day!