To help keep your energy and mood elevated during the winter months start your day with Oats.
One healthy way to start your day during the winter months is with an oat based bar full of nuts and seeds and dried fruit such as our Breakfast Bar, or with a bowl of hot porridge made with wholegrain oats. You could even combine the two to make a mega energy-boosting breakfast!
Why eat oats for breakfast?
Eating oats for breakfast will give you a good energy boost and set you up for the day. Oats are rich in soluble fibre, particularly beta-glucans which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, and iron. The fibre in oats can really help us feel full and satisfied, helping us control our appetite and manage our weight. They have a low glycaemic index which means they do not cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, making them an excellent choice for maintaining steady energy levels. Oats can help nourish the beneficial bacteria in our gut as the beta-glucans act as a prebiotic. A happy gut can lead to better digestion, stronger immunity and regular healthy bowel movements.
How to make the best porridge
Here we have put together a recipe for the perfect porridge with ideas and inspiration for interesting and nutritious ways to top your porridge.
Basic porridge recipe:
150 - 200g Mornflake jumbo or quick cook oats
400ml Coconut or oat milk
Pinch of salt
How to cook porridge:
Add all the ingredients to a pan and cook on a medium to low heat, continuously stirring for approximately 5 minutes. As the oats cook they will expand and soak up the milk. Add more milk or water to the porridge depending on what thickness you like it. Once cooked pour the porridge into a bowl and add your chosen toppings. See our list of ideas for nutritious and delicious ways to top your porridge below:
1. Cooked apple, fresh plum, mixed dried fruits (cranberries + sultanas), hazelnuts, cinnamon and a dash of honey.
2. Crushed roasted pistachios and fresh pomegranate.
3. Banana, peanut butter, crushed roasted peanuts and honey. Add some goji berries or blueberries to make it extra nutritious!
4. Plum, pecan, granola, cinnamon & honey.
5. Nutella, coconut and strawberries.
For that post porridge mid morning pick-me-up make sure to stock up on Oatopia Energy Balls or Oat Bakes.