Keto Means
Photo by Maria Orlova Pexels Logo Photo: Maria Orlova

Can I lose weight eating oatmeal for breakfast everyday?

According to a 2021 review published in Foods, oat beta-glucan has positive effects on hyperglycemia, lowering blood lipid levels and reducing weight. "The fiber content of oatmeal is filling and satiating, which in turn can help with eating fewer calories throughout the day and managing your weight," says Michalczyk.

What vegetables eliminate ketosis?
What vegetables eliminate ketosis?

A person may wish to avoid starchy vegetables, such as beets, potatoes, and sweetcorn. Keto diets restrict the amount of carbohydrates a person can...

Read More »
How can I thicken my chili without it changing taste?
How can I thicken my chili without it changing taste?

Simmer the Chili This is the best way to thicken chili without changing its flavor, texture or appearance. All you have to do is let your chili...

Read More »

It's a good thing medical experts recommend oatmeal as a healthy breakfast—there's so much you can do with a container of oats. You can enjoy them warm, soak them overnight, bake them into bars or muffins, or even blend them into a waffle batter. Yet besides such delicious versatility, why exactly do health experts recommend oatmeal as a go-to morning meal? How does a simple bowl of oats affect your long-term health? Here's what the science says about consuming oatmeal on a regular basis.

You May Feel Fuller for Longer

Oats are a great source of fiber, a carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. Because fiber slows down digestion, you won't feel as hungry for a longer period, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Eating fiber-rich foods helps avoid spikes and dips in your blood sugar levels while reducing feelings of hunger. "Having oats for breakfast or incorporated into different foods as meals and snacks is a great way to give the meal more staying power and help you feel fuller for longer," says Maggie Michalczyk, RDN. According to the USDA's FoodData Central, 1 cup of cooked oatmeal contains 4 grams of fiber, which is 16% of the recommended daily value.

You'll Have an Easier Time in the Bathroom

"Oats contain a special type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan," says Michalczyk. "Beta-glucan forms a gel-like consistency in the gut and helps to keep things moving in your digestive tract and keep you regular." This helps with bulking up your stool, making it easier for your bowel movement later. Plus, pairing your oatmeal with sources of insoluble fiber—like unpeeled sliced apples, nuts or blackberries—can also help keep things moving in your digestive tract and make things easier in the bathroom later.

Your Risk of Heart Disease Will Decrease

Starting your morning with a bowl of oats can benefit your heart health in more ways than one. Because of the fiber content, oatmeal can help lower your "bad" LDL cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar levels and even lower high blood pressure—all of which play a significant role in minimizing risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Your Gut Bacteria Will Thrive

Oatmeal is also a prebiotic food, which feeds the good bacteria in your gut. Maintaining healthy gut bacteria—also known as your gut microbiome—will benefit your body's immune system, improve your mood and digestion, and help to ward off diseases. A 2021 systematic review published in the Journal of Nutrition found a link between oat consumption and increasing beneficial bacterial groups within one's gut, making it a gut-friendly and heart-healthy breakfast. "Incorporating a wide variety of plant foods like oats is also beneficial for gut diversity, which is another important aspect of gut health," says Michalczyk.

You'll Manage Your Weight Easier

Along with these positive benefits, research shows this popular breakfast can even support weight-loss and weight-management efforts. According to a 2021 review published in Foods, oat beta-glucan has positive effects on hyperglycemia, lowering blood lipid levels and reducing weight. "The fiber content of oatmeal is filling and satiating, which in turn can help with eating fewer calories throughout the day and managing your weight," says Michalczyk. "Beta-glucan may also promote the release of peptide YY, a hormone produced in the gut that helps with satiety."

The Bottom Line

Does apple cider vinegar help with ketosis?
Does apple cider vinegar help with ketosis?

Yes, apple cider vinegar is keto-friendly. ACV works well with the keto diet when you consider its low carbohydrate composition. Besides its low...

Read More »
What to put in oatmeal to lose weight?
What to put in oatmeal to lose weight?

In addition, be sure to add a protein source like Greek yogurt, egg whites or eggs, or nuts or nut butters. Protein helps you feel full and...

Read More »

How can I make my gut healthy?
How can I make my gut healthy?

Eating a plant-based diet that includes fermented foods and fiber from colorful fruits and vegetables, having healthy sleep habits and managing...

Read More »
What does mom fit jeans mean?
What does mom fit jeans mean?

Look at 90s mom-jean inspo and you'll see mom jeans are high-waisted with less stretch - like classic denim - and are cut to have a baggy fit...

Read More »
Does putting butter in coffee burn fat?
Does putting butter in coffee burn fat?

The MCTs in butter coffee may help promote fullness and aid weight loss when used with a calorie-restricted diet. Also, the caffeine and MCTs in...

Read More »
Is it easy to get back into ketosis?
Is it easy to get back into ketosis?

“When you go back to a ketogenic diet after being off it for a day or a period of time, you can easily get back to the diet the next day—but it...

Read More »