Clean Eating Gingerbread Oatmeal Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is the healthiest thing to add to oatmeal? ›

Additions to make it healthier

Here are some foods to pair with oatmeal to bolster its protein or fat content: a couple of spoonfuls of nut butter, nuts, or seeds. a scoop of protein powder. beaten egg whites (mixed into oatmeal while cooking) or a fried egg on top.

High-sugar toppings like chocolate, syrup, and dried fruit

As Best points out, "some of the worst ingredients that are mistakenly added to healthy overnight oat recipes include chocolate sauce, sugar, syrup, and dried fruit."

Both cottage cheese and yogurt are great on their own, but these two ingredients also deserve a spot in your next bowl of oats. Harbstreet recommends adding cottage cheese because just one half cup adds a whopping 12 extra grams of protein.

Dried Fruit

Many dried fruits pair well with oatmeal and add nutrients and textures to your meal. Dried cranberries, bananas, and mangoes are a few examples that can enhance your breakfast, adding a touch of sweetness and a different texture from the oats.

Steel-cut oats, also called Irish oatmeal, are the whole oat kernel that has been cut into two or three pieces using steel disks. This type of oats contains the highest amount of fiber, as it is least processed. Steel-cut oats take a little longer to cook, and result in a creamy and chewy porridge.

This suggests oats can be consumed every day. However, since oats are high in fiber, you may notice changes in your stool's appearance and the frequency at which you poop. Consuming an excess amount of oats may also lead to decreased nutrient absorption.

Cinnamon, in turn, has been shown to reduce total cholesterol levels. Since high cholesterol is linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease, the cholesterol-reducing effects of both honey and cinnamon together may reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

What is a healthy alternative to oatmeal? ›

Quinoa is a great oatmeal alternative as it has rich protein and fiber contents, which help keep you satiated and slow the rise of your blood sugar post-meal. One cup of cooked quinoa packs about 40 grams of carbs, 8 grams of protein, 5 grams of dietary fiber and 3 grams of healthy fats.

According to Healthline.com, oats are a good source of carbs and fiber and are even filled with "important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant plant compounds." When combined with the natural energy found in pure honey, there is no doubt that honey and oats pack a powerful punch when enjoyed together.

Eggs are a rich source of protein and have minimal carbs. On the hand, oatmeal is a carb-rich food and does provide some protein to our body. According to USDA, a breakfast with 2 medium eggs will yield approximately 13g Protein and 1.1g Carbs whereas a bowl of oatmeal will give you 2.4 g Protein and 12g Carbs.

You can add them as a topping to your favorite yogurt or blend them into a smoothie. One easy and nutritious way to enjoy raw oats is to make overnight oats by letting them soak in the refrigerator in water or milk. This allows them to absorb the liquid, making them easily digestible in the morning.

Whether you prefer oatmeal with milk or water depends on your personal taste and dietary requirements. Whichever method you choose, oatmeal is a nutritious and satisfying breakfast choice that can be easily customized to suit your preferences.

Add-ins make any oatmeal better-tasting—and they can also make it more nutritious. Topping oatmeal with your favorite fruit boosts the fiber. Adding unsalted nuts offers healthy fats and makes your breakfast more filling.