4 Reasons You Should Recommend Oatmeal as a Healthy Breakfast Option to Patients (Plus the Perfect Easy Fall Recipe!)

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Oatmeal is a healthier alternative to common breakfasts that a lot of your patients are eating - like bagels, pastries and cereals. Asking patients about their diet and what they eat for breakfast is a quick intervention you can make to help them - especially those with high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes - achieve their blood sugar, weight loss and health goals. They might be eating foods that work against their goals and you can show them an easy change to make!

The best kinds of oatmeal to choose are rolled or steel cut oats. The instant (quick) oats are highly processed and when they come in flavored packets, they usually have a lot of added sugars. If you do choose to use a instant/quick oat for the convenience, always check the ingredient label. I recommend the Bob’s Red Mill Classic Oatmeal. I love their oatmeal to-go cups when I need something quick.

Here are 5 reasons oatmeal is a great and nutritious breakfast option:

1. Fiber - Oatmeal has lots of fiber which can help with constipation, which many patients suffer from. Fiber also helps you feel full longer, which can help with weight loss.

2. Helps Control Blood Sugar - Oatmeal has a low glycemic index. The beta-glucan fiber present in oats also helps lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity by delaying gastric emptying and the absorption of glucose into the blood.

3. Nutrient-Dense - Oatmeal has a well-balanced nutrient composition. It is full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants like manganese, phosphorus, Vitamin B-1, magnesium and iron. They are also a great source of carbs, fiber, protein, and healthy fat.

4. Easy to Make - Having easy healthy options like oatmeal available makes it more likely patients will make the right choice and be able to change their diet.

Here is an easy overnights oat recipe to recommend to your patients. I use a ripe banana so I don’t have to use any added sweetener - it works so well! The pumpkin is a fun fall addition, but totally optional!

5 MINUTE PUMPKIN OATMEAL

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup milk (I always go for a plant-based/non-dairy option)

  • 1/2 cup water

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats

  • 1 ripe banana, mashed

  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree

  • cinnamon to taste (I never measure mine - maybe 1/2 to 1 teaspoon?)

Directions:

  • Mix milk and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir in oats.

  • Boil oats for about 5 min, depending on how thick you like ‘em. Keep your eye on it.

  • Mix in the mashed ripe banana, pumpkin puree, and cinnamon.

  • Top it with some fresh blueberries and extra cinnamon (or whatever you like!)

  • Enjoy!

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