FOOD & DRINK
Oatmeal: THE EVERYDAY SUPERFOOD Oatmeal is a far cry from the “new kid on the block” when it comes to WORDS BY Story Sheidow
Oats are incredibly slow to digest, and won’t spike your blood sugar, allowing you to feel satiated for longer, and less likely to crave simple carbohydrates such as those found in processed foods and refined sugars. This satiety is because oats contain a powerful soluble fibre called beta- glucan, which can reduce cholesterol, decrease blood sugar, increase feelings of fullness, and boost healthy bacteria in the gut. This fibre also enhances the immune system’s response to disease and infection. On top of all that, oats can help relieve constipation and promote regularity, and have also been shown to help with weight loss. Now, how is that for a healthy start? You may be surprised to learn that oatmeal is abundant in vitamins and minerals, and also a great source of protein, serving up a whopping
13 grams. It’s rich in antioxidants, particularly avenanthramides— anti- inflammatories known to help lower blood pressure. But isn’t eating oatmeal boring? Not necessarily. The beauty of oatmeal is its ability to take on a wide variety of flavours. An everyday bowl of oatmeal can easily become a pumpkin pie; try apple, cinnamon, and raisin; or a walnut and blueberry treat. Or, if you want to be adventurous, try adding chocolate and banana, pistachio and pear, peaches and cream, or matcha tea to your bowl. From savoury to sweet, oatmeal does it all well. So, the next time you’re reaching for breakfast, give oats a chance. You’ll be doing both your body, and your taste buds, a huge favour.
breakfast, but it’s definitely had its fair share of makeovers. From the steel-cut oats of yesteryear, to the instant oats of our youth, from oatmeal bars to the more recent hip and trendy “overnight oats” craze, you just have to think to yourself, “There must be a reason for all this hype.” And you wouldn’t be wrong. You may be shocked to learn that this foundational food is actually approaching “superfood” status. I’m sure that many of you have noticed the way that oatmeal “hits the spot” like few other breakfasts can. You’re full quickly, and find yourself feeling satisfied for several hours. Though carb- heavy, oatmeal is quite surprisingly low in calories, and equally high in fibre. This one-two combo makes it a great way to start the day.
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www.pei-living.ca WINTER 2020
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