“My morning oatmeal has changed from being just an instant sugary meal to a way of addressing my body's needs.”
Photo Credit: Tiffany Stuart aka itsmeladyg
DISCLAIMER: I AM NOT A DOCTOR. ALL OF THE OPINIONS AND EXPERIENCES SHARED BELOW ARE MY OWN. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR AND DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH PRIOR TO TRYING ANY NEW DIET, SUPPLEMENT, OR PROTOCOL.
Oatmeal is a go-to breakfast food that so happens to be pretty darn healthy, (and ridiculously tasty with the right 'fixins). According to Web MD, oatmeal should be made with rolled oats or steel cut oats for the highest nutritional benefit. And as much as we love to sweeten the pot, (pun intended), sweeteners of any sort should be used sparingly to avoid the negative effects associated with a huge spike in your blood sugar. While I usually get my organic rolled oats from my local Whole Foods or food co-op, I also purchase certain brands online when the price is right.
Oatmeal is known for lowering bad cholesterol. In addition, it is an excellent source of fiber which helps you feel fuller during the day. HOWEVER, my favorite use and benefit for oatmeal is it's ability to turn in to "carrier food" of sorts.
I consider a "carrier food", (that is a term that I made up but fits so well), is much like a carrier oil. I consider it to be any food or drink that has an awesome ability to dilute an essential food or concentrated nutrient that I want to ingest. Quite plainly, it can make the task of taking a medicine, vitamin, or food that may not taste great an overall more pleasant experience and easier on the stomach. Kind of like the spoonful of sugar that Mary Poppins suggested you take to help the medicine go down.
At this point, you're probably thinking "What The Hell Does This Woman Stash In Her Oatmeal?". Well, over the last couple of years in light of some of my hormonal imbalances, I have started taking supplements such as Flaxseed and Maca Root. Each are known for their ability to aid in hormone regulation, and are ideal for women trying to explore natural options.
Flaxseed has shown through studies to help women suffering from hot flashes and other menopausal issues reduce their symptoms, (10 Flax Seed Benefits and Nutrition Facts). In addition, it can help with monthly cycle regularity. While flaxseed oil can be taken, ground flaxseed also provides added fiber. Flaxseed meal's nutty taste is lovely on oatmeal or yogurt.
Maca root is a vegetable that resembles a radish which originates in Peru. It has been a staple of the people of the Andes for thousands of years. It has been used and known for its ability to regulate hormones due to its adaptogen properties. Adaptogens help naturally raise and lower your hormone levels to their optimal levels. One of my favorite YouTubers, HeyFranHey did a full video on Maca Root and her personal experience with it which you can watch HERE. Maca root has a unique sweet starchy taste that is distinct but pleasant. By the way, Maca is also known for improving fertility and libido...I'm just saying. It is a great natural resource to consider incorporating in your diet if you are suffering from hormonal imbalances of any kind. Aside from the female specific hormones, it also helps with leveling out the levels of cortisol in the body aka "the stress hormone".
Flaxseed and Maca are two of my personal household staples. They have helped tremendously as I have transitioned off of hormonal birth control. PLUS, they complement oatmeal's texture perfectly.
In addition to the hormonal supplements, I love to add Coconut Oil for it's anti-fungal properties, (perfect for ladies who are prone to yeast infections), improves digestion, and so much more. When my gut is having a particularly tough day, I drink a bit of coconut oil and by the end of the day, I am feeling great.
Over the years, my morning oatmeal has changed from being just an instant sugary meal to a way of addressing my body's needs. It is easy to add additional beneficial spices such as turmeric (which is known for it's anti-inflammatory properties), nuts, and more. I love love love, the combination of ground flaxseed and maca root and have personally experienced positive changes when used frequently. I stay fuller longer, seen a reduction in my internal temperature changes (especially at night), and experience a steady flow of energy without crashing.
Take some time to re-evaluate your oatmeal 'fixins. Choosing add-ins that boost the nutritional power of your meal is super easy and only takes a couple of minutes. Believe me, your body will thank you.
Interested in learning more about affordable healthy living? Be sure to stop by my blog www.itsmeladyg.com.