<![CDATA[Ode to Oatmeal]]>

Yes, I wrote an entire post about oatmeal. If you know me or have been reading this blog, you’re not surprised in the least. My preference is for steel cut oats, but any oatmeal will do. It’s such a safe, pre-run meal. I’ve never had a bad run after eating oatmeal for breakfast. Even my husband has been converted.

Here are a few of my recent oatmeal escapades…

Science proves that oatmeal is awesome!

1. It’s full of soluble fiber which lowers your “bad” LDL cholesterol. This fiber also makes you feel full for longer.

2. It has “slow-release” complex carbohydrates. This keeps it from spiking your blood sugar like refined carbohydrates . Refined carbohydrates lead to insulin spikes. When your insulin spikes, your body stores fat. So, the slow release carbs keep your body from storing fat!

3. Keeping your blood sugar levels under control also keeps you from reaching for quick sugar fixes…like cookies.

4. The slow release energy will keep you running strong for your entire run. Oatmeal eaten 3 hours before a run is the perfect low glycemic meal.

5. It’s a good source of whole grains. It keeps you feeling full without the heavy feeling.

6. A 2009 study in the Journal of Nutrition found that women with higher intakes of nutrient-packed whole grains have lower amounts of total body and abdominal fat.

7. Beware of the sugar-packed, instant “oatmeal” packages. It’s best to make plain jane oats and then doctor them up with your favorite toppings!

8. Speaking of toppings, oatmeal is a great conduit for other healthy foods. Cinnamon, berries, nuts, chia seeds, and my current favorite oatmeal topping…pomegranate seeds!!!

And lastly, a little oatmeal humor. Yes, if you google oatmeal jokes, they actually exist!