Oatmeal itself – the plain variety – is indeed very good for you. A half-cup of oatmeal has five grams of protein, 27 grams of carbs, three grams of fat and only 150 calories. Yes, we all know it’s high in fiber and very low in fat, but it can be a bit on the dull side. With just a few small additions – of the healthy choice rather than the high fat and calorie choices – oatmeal can be a delicious and nutritious breakfast option.

• One recipe that I really enjoy, especially as the weather turns cooler, adds one crushed low-fat graham cracker, 2 Tbsp. fresh or canned pumpkin and 2 tsp. brown sugar.
• Stirring peanut butter into the oatmeal is also yummy, and peanut butter plus pureed banana makes for a treat that can’t be beat.
• One of my children loves dried fruits – cherries, golden raisins and blueberries – mixed in with a small handful of nuts – almonds and walnuts, which gives you a rich serving of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Also try these homemade oatmeal recipes:

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Fresh Berry Oatmeal with Sweet Cream

Bircher Muesli

Oatmeal, once the most avoided breakfast choice, is instead a welcome treat. So don’t avoid oatmeal at breakfast, instead, avoid the candied oatmeal from the grocery store.

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

Lowly Oatmeal is a Healthy Breakfast Choice

The reason is that breakfast prevents our bodies and minds from crossing over into the dangerous zone of starvation mode. When that kicks in, our bodies don’t metabolize food efficiently and we end up devouring everything in sight. However, picking up breakfast at your favorite java joint or running through the drive-thru may hamper your weight loss efforts and put a dent in your wallet.

Since saving money is on everyone’s minds these days, as well as keeping true to our New Year’s resolutions of healthy eating, weight loss and fitness, here are a list of the top five best breakfast picks that will keep you well-fueled and and on your way to your best you!

1) Oatmeal: Studies show that rolled oats may reduce cholesterol and keep us satisfied longer than cold cereal. Save money by purchasing rolled oats in bulk and then save on calories by bagging 1/2-1 cup portions. Top with lo-cal sweetener, almonds, berries or a splash of milk, or try this great recipe for apple cinnamon oatmeal.

2) Eggs: Many nutritionists call eggs a true Super Food. Packed with protein, fat, vitamins and minerals, the nutrients in eggs will satisfy you for hours! You’ll save money because a dozen eggs breaks down to just a few quarters a day, and you can save time by hard boiling a batch of eggs to keep in the fridge for on-the-go snacking. You can whip up a frittata; cook them in individual ramekins, then during the week just grab, reheat and go!

3) High Fiber Cereal: Aim for cereals with five grams of fiber per serving. Kashi GoLean, Quaker Shredded Wheat and Fiber One are all great and healthy bets. The fiber in these will keep you feeling full longer and your digestive system in check. At $3-$4 per box, you’ll have healthy breakfasts for an entire week (or try the generic brands for more savings).

4) Leftovers: Who said that you can’t have last night’s chicken stir-fry for breakfast? In fact, in many countries like Japan, where rates of obesity are extremely low, breakfast typically consists of miso soup, rice and veggies. Don’t let your leftovers become a science experiment in the fridge, heat them up and dig in! If your dinner-for-breakfast lacks protein, add diced chicken to leftover whole grain pasta or add chickpeas to soup. You’ll save money and time.

5) Yogurt: Yogurt is packed with calcium, protein and gut-friendly probiotics. Stay clear of pre-sweetened yogurt, since they often contain heaps of sugar. Save money by buying the large containers instead of the individual yogurt containers. You’ll get more bang for your buck and you’ll be helping the environment by using less packaging. Low-fat plain yogurt is your best bet. You can control the sweetness and flavor by adding honey, agave syrup, lo-cal sweetener, berries, nuts, or even a handful of high fiber cereal.

Breakfast doesn’t have to be boring, expensive or time-consuming to prepare. With a smart shopping list that prepares you for a week-long of breakfast eats, your waistline, concentration and wallet will be quick to feel the benefits.

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

Five Healthiest and Budget-Friendly Breakfast Foods