Happy National Oat Month! Oats are a powerhouse of nutrition and versatility, perfect for a range of delicious, blood sugar-friendly meals.
We're celebrating this fantastic food this month by sharing three unique oat recipes. Not only are these dishes scrumptious and easy to make, but they also include our star ingredient, just better.® Prebiotic Fiber, ensuring each bite supports your health and wellness goals.
When selecting oats, it is crucial to opt for the less processed varieties, such as rolled or steel-cut oats. These types of whole oatmeal are richer in nutrients and have a lower glycemic index. This means they take longer to digest and absorb, resulting in a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar levels. This is particularly important for maintaining steady energy throughout the day and avoiding the highs and lows that can come with more refined grains.
Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, are oat groats that have been steamed and flattened. They retain most of their fiber and nutrients, making them a hearty, nutritious choice.
On the other hand, steel-cut oats are oat groats that have been chopped into pieces. They take longer to cook but offer a chewier texture and an even lower glycemic index, which is great for blood sugar control.
It's best to steer clear of instant or heavily sweetened oat products. These have often undergone more processing, which strips away beneficial fibers and nutrients. Plus, added sugars in these products can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar, which is exactly what we're trying to avoid for a healthier lifestyle.
One of the standout components of oats is their high fiber content, particularly beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber known for its impressive health benefits. Beta-glucan helps lower bad cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar levels, making it particularly beneficial for heart health and diabetic management. Besides fiber, oats are also a great source of vitamins and minerals like manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants.
These nutrients collectively support overall health, from improving digestive function to enhancing immune response. The inclusion of oats in your meal plan means nourishing your body with essential nutrients that promote long-term well-being.
With this knowledge in hand, let's roll (or cut!) into our three 'oat-standing' recipes to celebrate National Oat Month in style and health!
Raspberry Pecan Oats
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
2 cups almond milk
1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
4-6 Tablespoons just better.® Prebiotic Fiber
Optional: Add a half banana for sweetness.
Directions:
In a saucepan, combine oats and almond milk.
Bring to a boil, then simmer until the oats are soft.
Stir in just better.® Prebiotic Fiber until fully dissolved.
Top with fresh raspberries and chopped pecans.
Serve warm and enjoy a berry-delicious start to your day!
Granny Smith Apples + Walnuts Oats
Ingredients:
1 cup steel-cut oats
2 cups water
1 (small) Granny Smith apple, diced
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
4-6 Tablespoons just better.® Prebiotic Fiber
Optional: Cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor
Directions:
Cook steel-cut oats in water according to package instructions.
Once cooked, mix in just better.® Prebiotic Fiber thoroughly.
Add diced Granny Smith apples and walnuts to the oats.
Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg to taste.
Enjoy this crunchy, sweet, and nutritious bowl!
Savory Oats
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
2 cups vegetable broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
4-6 Tablespoons just better.® Prebiotic Fiber
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings: Green Onion, Mushrooms, Spinach
Directions:
In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
Add rolled oats and vegetable broth; cook until oats are tender.
Stir in just better.® Prebiotic Fiber until well incorporated.
Mix in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Add toppings of your choice.
Serve this savory twist on a classic warm and enjoy a comforting, fiber-rich meal.
There you have it, oats, three ways to celebrate National Oat Month! Each recipe is a testament to the versatility of oats and how they can be transformed into meals that cater to any taste preference. By incorporating just better.® Prebiotic Fiber: each dish tastes great and supports your health, especially in maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. We'd love to hear which recipe you tried and how you liked it. Join us in this oat-tastic celebration!
Live... just better.®!
Follow us on Facebook & Instagram and join our community committed to living fiber-rich. Want even more gut-healthy tips, recipes, and just better.® news? Sign up for our weekly newsletter below!