Fast breakfast food: Oats
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EmailInstant homemade oatmeal.
On a cold winter morning there is nothing like a hot breakfast. In the morning we have concerns about making sure our families receive a good meal that won’t take much time as we scurry out of the door. Rolled oats provide quick and tasteful nutrition. A good way to provide that is with instant oatmeal. I am not referring to the instant oatmeal that is prepackaged in single serving sizes; I am suggesting that rolled oats be used as an instant breakfast.
Rolled oats are a whole grain and can be microwaved in approximately four minutes (be sure to read the manufacturer suggestions on the container) with the same outcome as prepackaged instant oatmeal. Michigan State University Extension says that whole grains are beneficial in a variety of ways, including helping control weight management and lowering cholesterol. Whole grains contain dietary fiber which is important for proper bowel function and reducing constipation. Whole grains promote fullness during meals. Continuum Health Partners provides excellent information on fiber content for foods.
Whole grain benefits include:
- A good source of minerals used in building bones called magnesium. Magnesium also releases energy from muscles.
- Selenium protects cells from oxidation and aids the immune system.
- Iron is found in whole grains. Iron is used to carry oxygen in the blood.
- Folate (Folic acid) is a nutrient found in whole grains this is important for women who plan on getting pregnant or are at the age where they can still have children. This nutrient reduces the risk of neural tube defects, spinal bifida and anencephaly during fetal development.
All of this great information and more can be found through the above links. To add a little flavor to the rolled oats, add raisins, fruit, honey, milk, butter, pecans, walnuts apples, etc. after removing them from the microwave. The list is endless!
