Grab a Bowl of Oats on February 10th for National Oatmeal Monday

Did you know that the second Monday in February is also known as National Oatmeal Monday? This National food holiday originated in Scotland in the 1800s and has been celebrated ever since, and for good reason. This popular breakfast item possesses numerous nutrients that keeps the body fueled throughout the day!

While oatmeal is traditionally enjoyed in the morning, it can be a great meal at any time of the day. Eating oatmeal for breakfast can provide you with the high energy you need to get through the day, or oatmeal can be enjoyed as a snack to refuel when your energy is feeling low. There are many reasons to eat this healthy grain.

Oats are a wonderful food because they can be incorporated into numerous recipes and seasoned to your liking. You can buy ready-to-eat oatmeal at the grocery store or prepare it at home! Oatmeal comes in a variety of flavors and can be mixed with flax seeds, dried fruits, nuts, the possibilities are endless.

Benefits of Oatmeal

Oatmeal is not only a great source of energy that will keep you energized throughout the day, but it also contains many other nutrients that are beneficial to your health. Here are just some of the benefits of oatmeal:

Improved blood pressure: The higher fiber content in oatmeal can help reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Reduced cholesterol levels: Oatmeal contains beta-glucan, a soluble fiber, that reduces LDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as bad cholesterol.

Reduced blood sugar: The soluble fiber found in oatmeal can aid in reducing and maintaining blood sugar levels by slowing the digestion of carbohydrates.

Provides antioxidants: Oatmeal is a good source of inflammation-fighting antioxidants, such as polyphenols, that may protect you from chronic diseases.

5 Ways to Enjoy Oatmeal

Now that you know just some of the health benefits that oatmeal can provide, you are probably wondering how you can enjoy this tasty grain! Here are some delicious ways you can oatmeal into your day! Be sure to click the links for the recipes.

Mix it in your yogurt, add a handful of nuts, and put it in the refrigerator overnight.
Layer oats, fruit, and yogurt for a parfait!
Bake it into a tasty banana oatmeal muffin.
Create an oatmeal bake with apples and dates.
Try a savory oatmeal dish with mushrooms, shallots, and rosemary.

Whichever way you decide to enjoy oatmeal, grab a spoon and enjoy some oats on National Oatmeal Monday!

Your Turn To Action: What is your favorite way to eat Oatmeal? Let me know in the comments below.