Oatmeal is one of the most nutritious breakfast foods. It may help a person lose weight, lower blood sugar levels, provides antioxidants, promotes healthy bacteria in your gut, helps you to feel full to manage your weight, eases constipation and even relieves skin itching and irritation.

Oatmeal is available in several different varieties, including:

• oat groat
• steel-cut
• crushed
• rolled

To make oatmeal, mix 1 cup of water or your favorite milk and turn the heat to high. Once the liquid starts to boil, turn the heat to low and add 1/2 cup of rolled oats. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes or until the oats absorb the liquid. Add any toppings, stir your oatmeal, put a lid on the pan, and turn off the heat. Let your oatmeal sit for another five minutes, then it is ready to eat!

I use whole and natural sweeteners like cinnamon, banana, apples, blueberries and toppings like unsweetened coconut, chia seeds, almond butter, cacao nibs or crushed nuts to add textures and flavors.

Stay away from instant oatmeal, although they offer a variety with flavor and it usually cooks very quickly, they are also the mostly processed. Instant oatmeal often contains added sugars, as much as 8 teaspoons per serving, and other preservatives.

If you’re on a gluten-free diet, look for oats that are certified gluten-free. Though oats themselves don’t contain gluten, they can get tainted with gluten when they are being processed or growing. So, pay attention to the labels!

Adding oats can be a great starting point when making healthy breads, muffins, or pancakes. It is also another perfect addition to smoothies by adding helpful fibers and giving extra thickness.

This may help you feel more satisfied and energized throughout the day!

#coachkimdugan