Overnight oats and smoothie bowls are increasingly becoming popular breakfast options among people who want something fruitier and refreshing for their breakfast. From milk and peanut butter to pumpkin seeds and berries, a wide variety of healthy and tasty foods can go into your overnight oats. However, are these bowls truly good for your health? In a recent Instagram video, Nutritionist Leema Mahajan explained that it may or may not be good for your health, depending upon the ingredients you use.
In the video, the nutritionist answers that two main factors to consider are the types of oats you are using as well as the topping. She explains, "If you are using instant oats which have a very high glycemic index and on top of that using banana, mango, chiku or high sugar fruits, then your sugar levels are going to go up the roof, signalling the pancreas to release more insulin, which will cause an immediate sugar crash," adding," What will happen? You may experience more sugar cravings, fatigue, and lethargy at the start of the day."
Several other health experts also recommend eating a savoury breakfast instead of something sweet. Click here to learn in detail.
How To Make Healthy Overnight Oats
The nutritionist recommends using rolled oats instead and avoiding high-sugar fruits. "If you take rolled oats and pair it up with a high-quality dairy milk, yogurt or nut milk, and pair it up with a source of protein, then you made yourself a breakfast of champions." In the comments section, she suggests avoiding adding fruits. "I would rather avoid fruits and top with nuts and seeds," nutritionist Mahajan shares.
Also Read: Understanding Calorie Deficit: How It Works And Safety Practices For Effective Weight Loss
To reap more health benefits, she adds in the caption, "Since oats are rich in phytic acid, make sure that you roast them and store them as meal prep!" Phytic acid is a substance found in plant seeds that may reduce the absorption of nutrients like iron, zinc, and calcium.
What Is The Difference Between Rolled Oats And Instant Oats
Instant oats undergo an additional cutting process compared with rolled oats, which cuts the flakes into smaller sizes for quicker preparation. The texture of instant oats is also creamier, and smoother compared with rolled oats. Instant oats may also usually have salt and added sugars.
Also Read: Celebrity Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar Shares 3 Traditional Foods To Stay Cool This Summer
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information