Overnight Soaked Oats Versus Regular Bowl Of Oats - What's The Difference?

Overnight oats has become a growing breakfast trend all across the world. From Bollywood celebrities to food bloggers, everyone swears by their humble bowl of overnight oats. This recipe has become a widely popular dish for breakfast due to many reasons. The health benefits of overnight oats cannot be emphasised enough. Further, the overnight oats can be customised with fruit, seeds or some of your favourite spreads and jams. The fact that you wake up to a ready meal for breakfast is definitely an added bonus. But does overnight oats offer more benefits than regular, cooked oats? We say yes!

Difference Between Overnight Soaked Oats And Regular Bowl Of Oats

Firstly, one clear difference arises in the kind of oats that are used in both the recipes. A regular bowl of oats usually uses instant oats which are heavily-processed and packaged for longer usage, while the kind of oats recommended for overnight oats are the rolled ones which are more raw in nature. The rule of thumb is that the more processed the oats are, the less nutritious they will be - which makes overnight oats an obvious choice. Overnight oats offer a range of health benefits for your gut, as well as for overall health and well-being.

(Also Read: Oats Porridge: Four Exciting Recipes to Spruce Up Your Breakfast)

Another argument is that overnight oats are left to soak overnight, which means their nutritional content stays intact vis-a-vis their cooked counterparts which are simmered on a stove. The process of preparing oats by putting them on heat is generally considered less healthy for oats, as compared to a slow-cooking process by soaking them over a long duration. This allows oatmeal to swell up and seep the liquid in their every pore thus making them a wholesome and satiating breakfast meal by itself.

Overnight Soaked Oats Vs Regular Bowl Of Oats - Which Is Better?

The bottom line is that overnight oats are better than regular oats nutritionally and even otherwise. But what about taste? Some people say that soaking oats overnight gives them a chewy texture which makes breakfast more fun versus regular oats which taste more like porridge. As for the variations to rolled oats, there are endless permutations and combinations that can be made with the oats. It is important to not add too many sugary ingredients to the oats so that their health benefits are not outweighed by the sugar or calorific content. The simple way to make overnight oats is to soak oats in a bowl with milk, curd or water and let them hydrate overnight.

Now that we have established that overnight oats is a better choice, let's see how this meal will help you stay healthy.

Health Benefits Of Overnight Oats

• Oats are packed with soluble fibre (especially beta-glucan) that supports digestion and keeps you fuller for longer.
• Regular consumption helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and stabilise blood pressure.
• The slow-releasing carbs prevent sudden hunger pangs and aid portion control, helping with weight management. 
• Soaking oats overnight makes them easier to digest and enhances beneficial gut bacteria.
• The fibre slows down sugar absorption, helping maintain steady blood sugar levels.
• Combining oats with milk or yoghurt provides a good dose of protein for muscle repair.
• Overnight oats are rich in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins for energy and metabolism.
• You can add fruits, nuts, or seeds for added nutrients and flavour.

Tips To Make The Best Overnight Oats

Use rolled oats instead of instant for better texture. Mix equal parts oats and milk (or yoghurt), add chia seeds for thickness, and refrigerate for at least six hours. Sweeten naturally with honey or dates, and top with fresh fruits or nuts before eating. For a creamy consistency, stir once mid-way through soaking.

Here are some interesting recipes to try with overnight oats:

Bircher Muesli With Muffins

Overnight Oats With Coffee And Cocoa

2-Ways Overnight Oats

Oats And Yogurt Porridge Parfait