January is National Oatmeal Month! So toss the soup and warm up with a steaming bowl of this ridiculously healthy treat.Famous for protecting the heart, this hearty (no pun intended!) grain packs tons of additional health benefits. From stabilizing blood sugar levels to improving the immune system, antioxidant- and fiber-packed oats will keep you healthy and full until lunchtime.
A study by the International Journal of Epidemiology found that diets high in whole grains and fruit can ward off breast cancer in pre-menopausal women. So mix in some berries or a banana to really boost your benefits!
The simplest way to prepare is also the healthiest way. Buy Quaker Oats Quick Oats (or another brand of quick-cooking oats). Simply measure out ½ cup and add it to a bowl with 1 cup water or milk (bonus points for substituting coconut, almond, or soy milk!). Add frozen berries (like antioxidant-packed frozen wild blueberries) before microwaving for 1½ to 2 minutes on high, or add fresh berries or a sliced banana after it’s cooked through.
Seriously upgrade your bowl with a sprinkle of cinnamon, which protects the heart and boosts brain function, and a tablespoon of chia seeds (a superfood packed with iron, calcium, and omega-3s) .
Really in a hurry? Even fast food joints like McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts have oatmeal on their menus these days. So hit the drive through on your way to work, but tell ‘em to leave out the brown sugar and add cinnamon instead.
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