Oatmeal has long been recognized as a healthy food for breakfast. It offers a good dose of cholesterol-lowering fiber, vitamins and protein. But what about those little packs of instant oatmeal?
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Instant oatmeal is a pantry favorite because it cooks up quickly and comes in a variety of flavors. It’s partially cooked and dried, which is why you can cook it by simply pouring hot water over it.
Contrary to belief, plain instant oats have the same nutritional benefits of regular oats. However, the flavored instant varieties are bursting with sugar! A typical flavored instant oatmeal packet will set you back at least 3 to 4 teaspoons of added sweeteners.
In addition to sugar, some brands also add sodium as a preservative. While flavored instant oatmeal may be tastier, it’s terrible for your metabolism. All the benefits you may have gained from eating the oats are lost due to the sugar and sodium content.
The bottom line is instant oatmeal can be handy and healthy if you choose the unsweetened variety. Stick with brands that have minimal ingredients and the least amount of preservatives. If you want to sweeten it up a bit, add fresh fruit or agave. Fresh fruit will also up the fiber content, which will help keep you fuller longer.
