Experts maintain that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. For sustained energy to get you through your morning, the University of Florida suggests consuming a breakfast that is high in fiber and low in sugar and fat. This will make you feel full longer and prevent the crash that imminently follows a quick energy boost from processed foods. Oatmeal can provide essential nutrients, though amounts vary depending on whether you choose traditional cooked oatmeal or instant oatmeal.
Benefits of Oatmeal
Oatmeal has been called the super breakfast food because of all the benefits it has for your health. Starting the day off with oatmeal can give you a boost of energy, and satisfy you while having many health benefits. According to Glycemic-index.org oatmeal has the ability to stabilize your blood sugar, lower cholesterol, promote weight loss and control mood swings.
Instant Oatmeal
Instant oatmeal is made of rolled oats that are thinner so they can cook faster. They commonly contain added ingredients such as oat flour, calcium carbonate, salt, caramel color, iron and vitamin A. A 28-g packet of regular flavor instant oatmeal contains 100 calories, 2 g of fat, 75 mg of sodium, 3 g of fiber, 4 g of protein and 19 g of carbohydrates.
Original Cooked Oatmeal
Cooked oatmeal takes longer than instant; however, there is only one ingredient: whole grain rolled oats. The most significant difference in nutritional content is that there is no sodium. In a 1/2 cup of oatmeal, there are approximately 150 calories, 3 g of fat, 27 carbohydrates and 4 g of fiber.
Tips for Oatmeal
A balanced breakfast consists of foods from the dairy, fruits and grains group. Prepare oatmeal with milk to boost nutrition with dairy and top with fruits such as blueberries, raspberries or strawberries. If you prepare your oatmeal with milk or add fruit, keep in mind that you are increasing the nutritional values for calories, sugar and fat content as well.
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