Why Age-Old Oatmeal Keeps You Healthy and Hip
There’s no shortage of trendy breakfast foods that promise to satisfy the palate and promote health and youthfulness. But before you slurp down a smoothie or munch on avocado toast, consider the case for an age-old breakfast staple: oatmeal.
Not only does this classic morning meal pack a nutritional punch; it’s fun to eat, versatile, and a perfect fit for any senior lifestyle. And if you think oats are, well, out of fashion, think again--and get in the breakfast know. Here’s why a bowl of oatmeal may be the best recipe for staying hip, healthy, and vibrant as an older adult.
Oatmeal Strengthens the Body and Mind
As you age, certain nutrients can help promote youthfulness by fending off chronic illness. One of the most significant? Fiber, which is known to prevent everything from constipation to heart disease to certain cancers. With over four grams per uncooked half cup, according to the USDA, oatmeal offers a formidable dose. But that’s not all.
Older adults will benefit from oatmeal’s polyphenols, which help lower blood pressure and increase blood flow, as well as magnesium, known to boost immunity and support nerve and muscle function. Oatmeal also provides long-lasting energy many seniors lack and brain fuel for improved memory and concentration.
Oatmeal Varieties Make It Fun
Steel-cut, Scottish, rolled, quick, and instant are all varieties of oatmeal you can purchase and craft into your own unique breakfast meal, keeping boredom at bay. For example, you might toast steel-cut oats before cooking for an earthy, robust flavor. Or, try adding soy or almond milk to quick oats for a nutty-tasting twist. You can also spruce up any type of oatmeal with mix-ins, like chopped dates, nuts, raspberries, coconut flakes, dried fruit, jam, or a sprinkling of cinnamon. Prepackaged oatmeal comes in fun flavors too; just beware of a higher sugar content in some of these products. Get creative with this versatile food and make it new and exciting each day.
Oatmeal Fits Today’s Senior Lifestyle
Like younger adults, today’s active seniors appreciate convenience at mealtime. Oatmeal fills the bill since it can be made quickly and easily on the stovetop or in the microwave. For those who like to meal prep in advance, oatmeal’s the ideal pick. Whip up a large batch for the week, store in the fridge, and heat a portion every morning for a hardy, healthy start to the day. Want to prepare just one serving for tomorrow’s breakfast? Put a half cup of rolled oats in a mason jar with a half cup of milk and a teaspoon of honey, then enjoy in the morning with your favorite toppings. Oatmeal also accommodates any senior budget, plus it’s readily available and simple to store.
Eating Oatmeal is Always on Trend
Unlike some contemporary breakfast foods that have run their course, oatmeal never goes out of style. It’s been a go-to in the human diet for thousands of years and is still popular today. Young people, middle agers, and seniors alike appreciate the wholesome, satiating quality of oatmeal and oatmeal products.
What makes oatmeal especially trend-worthy now is its ability to enhance just about any dish. You can toss uncooked oats into your favorite pancake or muffin recipe or spread cooked oatmeal on toast, serve it with eggs, or layer it in a yogurt parfait. Simply put, oatmeal hasn’t lost its flair--and neither will you when you include it in your daily
eating plan.
Although a traditional breakfast food, oatmeal is full of modern-day perks for senior adults. Incorporate this nutritional powerhouse into your morning routine and see how it can revitalize your taste buds, health, and life.