Is Oatmeal Fattening?
So, let's get straight to it.
Is oatmeal fattening?
The short answer? No. Oatmeal itself isn’t fattening. In fact, oatmeal (and oats in general) are actually very good for you. Oats contain healthy amounts of the proteins, carbohydrates, and fiber necessary for any healthy diet. Because they are so densely packed with nutrients, a bowl of nutritious oatmeal can help keep you feeling full longer than other popular breakfast foods, helping you feel satisfied until lunchtime. Not only that but oats also contribute to increased energy levels and heart health, and can be a great option for diabetics. With so many benefits, what could go wrong?
Unfortunately, no matter how healthy and nutritious something is, people can make mistakes that will actually hurt your health. This is definitely true for oatmeal. While it can be an integral part of a healthy diet, there are many common errors people make when eating oatmeal that end up making it a fattening food by adding more ingredients like sugar to it. Let’s look at these common mistakes to make sure you know how to make oatmeal part of a healthy lifestyle.
5 Ways Oatmeal Can Become Fattening How
A few mistakes you might be making when you grab a bowl of oatmeal include:
-
Eating too much oatmeal: The key is moderation. Anything can become unhealthy if you eat too much of it. One-half cup of dry oats should yield the proper serving size. If that doesn’t seem like much, try using a smaller bowl. That may help the proper serving size look like just the right amount. Oats also expand when they absorb liquids, so you may change your mind about it not looking like much until after you heat it up with water or milk.
-
Unhealthy Toppings: We get it. It’s really tempting to put a big ole spoonful of brown sugar or Nutella on your oats just to give it a little boost of sweetness. But, JUST STOP IT. Instead of using chocolate or other sugary products use fresh fruit! Lose the sugar and try slicing up a banana, or adding your favorite berries. Not only will that add sweetness, but fruit is full of important nutrients that will help you start your day off right.
-
Too Many Toppings: Okay, even if you are using healthy toppings, you could be putting way too much in your oats. This is especially true when adding in toppings like seeds and nuts, which naturally contain a lot of fat. While seeds and nuts are good for you in moderation, make sure you aren’t going overboard. If you aren’t sure how many toppings to use a good rule of thumb is to stop adding toppings once you’ve reached 150 calories (not including the oats itself). Use the suggested serving size on the package or simply sprinkle a small amount on your oatmeal as to not use too many nuts or seeds.
-
You Add Milk: Adding milk or other fats can contribute to weight gain. Instead, when cooking your oatmeal, add water. Add just a splash of milk after it’s cooked (if you like a little creaminess. Or use a milk-alternative, which tends to contain less fat than dairy milk. Contrary to popular belief, adding milk won’t make you more full. Water will still do the trick, and it will still taste delicious!
-
You’re Eating Instant Oatmeal: We get that it’s pretty easy to go to the store and buy a box of Quaker Oats instant oatmeal. But, that can be the reason you’re gaining weight! Many instant oatmeal packs include extra sugar or other ingredients that can aid in weight gain. Instead, make plain oatmeal and recreate your favorite flavors by adding fresh fruit and your favorite spices, like cinnamon. So, toss those instant packs away, and focus on fresh, healthy oatmeal. Like most fresh, homemade options, it will taste better anyway.
There are Still Convenient Options!
Many people don’t know the options they have when it comes to oatmeal, and that’s why they buy the packets of instant oatmeal. If you’re looking for an easy, convenient way to make healthy oatmeal each morning, try Oats Overnight. Oats Overnight can be prepared in the evening, left in the fridge overnight, and are ready-to-eat the next morning. And unlike instant oats, not only are there a ton of recipes to try, but there are many healthy products to choose from.
At Oats Overnight, we offer healthy, delicious oatmeal that is easy to make! Unlike instant oatmeal packets, our oatmeal doesn’t contain the extra sugars or ingredients that will make you gain weight. All you have to do is let your oats sit overnight, and when you wake up in the morning, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready for you to eat! See our options here!
