My Love/Hate Relationship with Oatmeal!

‘Oatmeal is gross.’  ~Shelly, age 10

‘Oatmeal packets, check.’ ~Shelly, age (a lady never tells her age) packing up for her travels

‘I would like oatmeal with dried fruit and nuts.’  ~Shelly ordering at Starbucks

When I was a child, I can always remember saying how much I hated (I mean hated) oatmeal.  I can remember my mom cooking oatmeal in the kitchen, and I would make the terrible ‘do-do’ face.  (Even though my mom’s cooking was the best in the world.)

I am not sure how it happened (like some relationships), but some time ago, I decided to give oatmeal a try.  I had the mentality, ‘Well, I have to try all foods once.’  (The same that I teach my clients).  And I realized, ‘Hum, this is not so bad.’

I remember looking at my plain bowl of oats saying to myself ‘How can I play with this to make it better?’  And I did, and I still do!

The chill in the Fall air is perfect for warmth of oatmeal!  Oatmeal is a great source of fiber (no one likes to talk about fiber or constipation), but do remember that fiber keeps us fuller longer than something simplier like grits or cornflakes.

How do I like my oatmeal?

Several ways.  I first encourage folks to try the simple oats (yes, you can even do this in your dorm microwave!).  Get used to the taste.  Then, ask yourself these questions:

1.  Do I want my oatmeal more creamy? If yes, add or cook with milk.

2.  Do I want my oatmeal to taste more sweet? If yes, add brown sugar and cinnamon.

3.  Do I want a crunch?  Add crushed almonds or walnuts. (Hello – brain food from the walnuts)

4.  Am I a chocolate lover? Add a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips (this can help with improved skin tone).

How else can you play chef?  Here are my favorites:

1.  Frozen blueberries + dark chocolate – cook with frozen blueberries and dark chocolate chips.

2.  Granola + nuts – mix in granola or nuts after cooking.

3.  Mix with peanut butter and dried fruit (it’s like cookie dough)

In addition, I travel with Nature Path Organic Oatmeal packets!  They are quick and yummy as well!

And for the Starbucks lovers out there – oatmeal is on the menu!  Yum Yum!

Don’t give up too quick on oatmeal!  Try it, and you will love it!

Shelly A Marie, MS, RD, LDN is the Executive Director for College Lifestyles.  She loves oatmeal.  Yes, she does.