Foods to Ponder

Oatmeal


I figure it is about time for me to talk about oatmeal since I am constantly talking about things I add to my favorite breakfast treat.  Oatmeal is awesome.  Hands down it is the best breakfast on Earth.  OK--maybe I am getting a bit carried away--but it is so yummy and incredibly healthy for you--provided you are choosing the right kind!


One half cup of oatmeal has just 150 calories and 4 grams of fiber.  A half cup doesn't sound like much, but once you add water and cook it--it puffs up to be a hearty serving.  Plus--oatmeal is just the base of my breakfast.  Once you add fruit, a handful of nuts or a dollop of peanut butter--your bowl is overflowing with deliciousness!  Oatmeal is a great way to incorporate whole grains into your diet.  It also boasts cholesterol lowering qualities due to its fiber content. 

When buying oatmeal--do yourself a favor and avoid the instant packets--especially the ones with added fruit or syrup.  Instant oatmeal is processed and basically loses all of the great health benefits of oats in the process.  Steel cut oatmeal is 100% whole grain and personally, I think it is far superior to instant.  The best kind is McCanns Irish Oatmeal.  You can find it in any grocery store--it usually comes in a can (as pictured) but sometimes you can find it in a box. 

It is true that steel cut oatmeal can not be microwaved--which means old fashioned stovetop cooking.  If you don't have time for that--I have three options.  The first is you can cook a larger batch (I usually do 4 servings) and then keep it in a container in the refrigerator.  It will last for several days and you simply microwave a portion when you are ready to eat it. The second option comes from my favorite grocery store--Trader Joes.  They sell frozen steel cut oatmeal!  Each box has 4 individually wrapped portions that you just pop in the microwave and voila!  It's super delicious and sometimes it's just easier to make.  Starbucks also sells steel cut oatmeal which is fabulous.  It has 140 calories on its own, and they give you a choice of brown sugar (50 calories), dried fruit (100 calories) or a nut medley (100 calories) to bulk it up.  Check here to see if your local Starbucks has hot breakfast items--if so--the oatmeal is a great option when you are on the go and looking for something healthy.  

If you find oatmeal to be a bit bland--I recommend doctoring it up a bit.  Sometimes all you need is a little Splenda or sugar-free maple syrup and you are set.  For those of you who want to add a bit of protein--some milk, nuts or peanut butter are great additions.  Fruits such as bananas, berries and dried cranberries are also a tasty addition.  


On that note, it's time for breakfast!










Email me at nicolesilva@weightthatsit.com