Don’t be fooled by this staple grain’s plain and unexciting reputation or its unremarkable place on the grocery shelf – hidden behind this dull guise is not only enormous health potential, but a warm, cozy wealth of flavour.  Consider it a simple, blank canvas awaiting your creative touch.

To start with, oatmeal is a fabulous combat weapon against cholesterol and related heart disease.  This is because it’s loaded with a specific type of fibre called beta-glucan, 3 grams of which can, when consumed on a daily basis, lower total cholesterol anywhere from 8 to 23 percent.  The same fibre can also boost the immune system by enhancing its response to infection.  All types of fibre also contribute to weightloss, as they slow digestion and prolong the feeling of fullness and satisfaction.  This process also stabilizes blood sugar levels, ensuring a steady source of energy over a longer period of time. Oats also contain a unique antioxidant compound called avenanthramides, which help prevent destruction in the digestive tract of healthy fats by free radicals.  Partnered with selenium (also abundant in oats) and vitamin E, it can also aid in DNA repair and boost the functions of vital antioxidant systems throughout the body.  Oats are also high in manganese, the essential trace mineral that is vital to bone production and maintenance. It is also needed in synthesizing thyroxin, the principal hormone of the thyroid gland.  Vegetarians especially appreciate the benefits of oatmeal because of its vitamin B1 (thiamine) content – without consuming meat, it can be difficult to obtain this essential vitamin. Combined with iron-rich oat bran, oats are an ideal protein and energy source.

Enough science – a bowl of oatmeal still looks rather plain and uninviting.  This is where creativity and innovation come in.  Dressing up a bowl of oatmeal can result in a complete breakfast, encompassing an array of vitamins, minerals, protein, and fibre in one delicious meal.  In fact, there is an entire blogging community devoted to oatmeal and its epicurean potential!  Try the old favourite: creamy oatmeal with warm milk, a sprinkle of cinnamon, raisins plumped by the heat and moisture, and a touch of brown sugar.  Or slice a banana into the mix and top with chopped pecans and honey.  Saute peaches with maple syrup until caramelized, and serve with oatmeal and vanilla yogurt.  For nut-lovers, stir a spoonful of a favourite nut butter into the hot oats until melted and sprinkle with granola.

Need inspiration?  Drop by our cafe around breakfast time, and grab a bowl of what we call Hull and Oats: a hot mug of oatmeal and Red River cereal served with fresh seasonal fruit, warm milk, and brown sugar.  Especially as winter’s cold touch lingers, a warm bowl of comfort is the best way to get the day started.  Satisfy your health and your taste buds in one go!