Oatmeal is a classic breakfast food with so many flavor variations. Whether you like it fruity, sweet and spiced, or seasonally flavored, it’s pretty tasty any way you make it. However, it’s easy to overdo it on the sugar when making oats which can send your blood sugar on a trip making you crash by lunchtime. This is why oats tend to get a bad wrap in the wellness world. All foods affect every person’s body differently so if you’re someone who enjoys a bowl of oatmeal and it fits into your wellness routine, follow this recipe to help make that bowl of oatmeal a little more satisfying and sustaining.
Good Quality Oats
Start with a good quality oatmeal. Always go for organic to avoid pesticide exposure and certified gluten free if needed. Most oats are naturally gluten free, but some brands take better caution that others. For added bioavailabity and better digestion, try a sprouted variety. I like Bobs Red Mill and One Degree brands.
Add Some Fiber
My favorite fiber sources are chia seeds and flax seeds. I also like how they gelatinize oatmeal making it a little more thick and hearty. but if you aren’t into seeds, a teaspoon psyllium husk powder also does the job. Cacao nibs, cacao powder, and coconut flakes also contain fiber!
Then a Good Healthy Fat
Add nuts, nut butters, hemp seeds, coconut flakes, or even a little grass-fed butter if you’re feelin it.
Don’t Forget the Protein
I like to add a scoop of Vital Proteins Collagen powder to my oats. Whatever your protein powder of choice is will also work. Totally optional, but it helps round out your breakfast a little more.
Finish it With Some Sweetness
A dash of maple syrup, honey, or monk fruit sweeteners with a little vanilla is all you need. Remember to keep it minimal so you don’t cause a blood sugar crash later.
Top it Off!
Berries, bananas, apples, cinnamon, coconut flakes, hemp seeds, cocao nibs, drizzle of nut butters…the options are endless! Whatever you love, do that.
Meal Prep & Storage
Make a big batch and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Mason jars work great for overnight oats because they are so easy to grab and go on those busy mornings. Although tasty cold, if you’d like to heat your oats before eating, dump the oats into a pot over low heat on the stove, stir occasionally, and enjoy!