AMP Up Your Morning Oatmeal the EASY Way

When we think of oatmeal, it conjures up thoughts of yummy warmness, sweet goodness, and comfort.  I have a lot of patients who enjoy starting their day out with a nice bowl of oatmeal.  I know some people who feel like they have to eat something solid to start the day and are averse to having a liquid protein shake, which is my typical go-to breakfast.

Well, you are in luck.  Oatmeal happens to be healthy as well as detox friendly.  Those who are following my nutritional detox plan are also able to enjoy oatmeal when they want.  Oatmeal provides a little bit of protein, some fiber, and a few vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B-6, Magnesium, Calcium, and Iron..which is great.  **If possible, opt for organic oatmeal to avoid the risk of glyphosate and pesticide contamination. The problem with oatmeal solely for breakfast is that you are missing the amount of protein and healthy fat needed to kick start your energy and keep you feeling full for longer.

Lucky for you oatmeal lovers, there is a way to amp up your oatmeal so that it becomes a sort of superfood for boosting your energy and metabolism.  

First off, add in some protein.  Since oatmeal has only about 6 grams of protein per serving, and your breakfast should contain more like 20 grams of protein, you need to make some additions to your oatmeal.  The easiest way to do this is to add a scoop of protein powder into the dry mixture.  A nice vanilla pea protein or paleo protein powder can add in as much as 18-20 grams of protein, plus it helps to sweeten your oatmeal without adding in sugar or artificial sweeteners.  The protein powder I love THE most is Pure Paleo Vanilla.  

You can also add in a tablespoon of chia seeds or freshly ground flax seeds to improve the nutritional content of your oatmeal.  Chia seeds pack a MAJOR punch for such a small amount.  You get a burst of protein, fiber (like TONS), Omega-3’s and vitamins and minerals.  This is an absolute MUST just by itself for your oatmeal.

Lastly, you want to add some healthy fats.  You can drizzle in a tablespoon of coconut oil for the yummiest flavor ever or add a half an avocado.  

Want some other fun additions for your oatmeal?  

-Try coconut milk or almond milk to make your oatmeal creamier

-If you want to sweeten your oatmeal, opt for monkfruit, protein powder (as mentioned above), or a teaspoon of honey

-Flavor your oatmeal with cinnamon or vanilla for a sweeter kick, or turmeric and ginger for a more savory oatmeal. 

-You can add in berries for the antioxidant value and seeds or nuts for trace minerals and crunch.  

I’d love to hear your favorite oatmeal recipes.  Drop me a line or post your favorite additions!