Did you know that oats only have 130 calories per cup?  Oatmeal is naturally low in calories, high in fiber and it even contains protein!  Plain oats help to balance your blood sugar because their unique whole grain complex slows the rate at which your body absorbs their energy.  It’s no wonder a bowl of perfectly healthy stovetop oats keep you satisfied all morning!

Another great quality of oatmeal is just how versatile it is!  How do I love it?  Mixed with a bit of pumpkin puree and chopped nuts for a seasonal treat… or with chopped banana, cinnamon and peanut butter, or even with a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips on top for a special treat!  Oatmeal is one of my favorite Fall comfort foods!  I always add a bit of Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk to give it a creamy consistency!  Delicious!

Looking for some easy tasty ‘low calorie’ toppings?  Try a tablespoon of dried cherries, apricots, figs, peanut butter or strawberry jam.  Each tablespoon of chopped cashews, walnuts or almonds contain about 100 calories.  A tablespoon of toasted coconut or chocolate syrup also have less than 100 calories each and they’re a fun little way to make your oatmeal almost a dessert!

I love to mix plain instant oats with some boiled hot water in my thermos first thing in the morning.  I add an (excessive) amount of cinnamon and take it ‘to go’ just in time for my AM class!  Nothing better than a warm, healthy breakfast to wake me up and keep me going!

What about you?  Do you like oatmeal for breakfast?  Don’t you love it even more this time of year?