National Oatmeal Month

an Overview of the Annual Celebration in January

Known for the significant health benefits, oatmeal, for some, is a staple in the daily dietary program. Whether eaten for breakfast, lunch, dinner or as a snack, oatmeal provides a warming, soft, nutritious meal for children and adults alike. In January of each year, our country recognizes oatmeal for its nutritional value in what is known as National Oatmeal Month.

Today, millions of Americans will consume, at least, one bowl of oatmeal. From instant oatmeal to rolled, old fashioned oats, oatmeal provides a plethora of vitamins and nutrients crucial to the health of our bodies. Most importantly, oatmeal provides a good solid serving of fiber, both soluble and insoluble. With cholesterol levels on the rise, soluble oatmeal fiber works to improve the level of LDL cholesterol thereby improving the overall cholesterol health of the consumer; another good reason to enjoy oatmeal, especially during National Oatmeal Month, a January celebration.

A bowl of oatmeal is versatile. As a breakfast food or enjoyable snack, oatmeal can be adorned with cinnamon, sugar, chocolate chips and any flavored syrup. As a healthy lunch alternative, consider mixing peanut butter into a bowl of oatmeal for a quick, healthy alternative to a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. And, for dinner, grind oatmeal into a food processor, mix with your favorite spices, and coat poultry for baking. With moisture enhancing qualities, oatmeal will provide a wonderful and juicy chicken dish.

For consumers who prefer not to indulge in a nice warm bowl of oatmeal, there are a variety of other methods for obtaining nutrients from this soluble fiber food product. Making oatmeal cookies, creating granola snacks and serving the coated poultry for dinner will provide your family with oatmeal food alternatives.