Overnight-soaked oats are a popular breakfast option, especially among fitness enthusiasts and people who want to lose weight. Oats are rich in carbohydrates and a fibre called beta-glucan, which helps in the slow release of glucose into the bloodstream. However, consuming oats in isolation and in the morning may lead to a spike in blood sugar levels due to the Dawn effect.
Tips to improve your oatmeal
• Avoid adding sugar or sweeteners, as this can cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
• Add a teaspoon of chia seeds while soaking your oats.
• Try soaking your oats in yoghurt or dairy alternatives such as soy or almond milk. Fats help slow down the release of glucose.
• Add nuts like almonds, walnuts, or nut butter (peanut or almond) for fats. Fats can also slow down the release of glucose in the bloodstream.
Incorporating these tips into your oatmeal can help you maintain stable blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. These healthy fats can also provide a satisfying crunch and flavour to the oats, making it a healthy and balanced breakfast option.
FAQs
According to a 2021 review published in Foods, oat beta-glucan has positive effects on hyperglycemia, lowering blood lipid levels and reducing weight. "The fiber content of oatmeal is filling and satiating, which in turn can help with eating fewer calories throughout the day and managing your weight," says Michalczyk.
Is overnight oatmeal really healthy? ›
While overnight oats are a nutritious, convenient, and substantial breakfast alternative, they can also aid in weight loss. When you eat oats, you won't overeat because they have beta-glucan, which makes you feel full.
What is the secret to overnight oats? ›
Add Twice as Much Milk as Oats
Whether you prefer whole milk, rice milk or coconut milk, you can use it. Just make sure to add twice as much milk as oats. Note: You can also use whey, buttermilk or thinned yogurt for a tangier flavor.
Does overnight oatmeal spike blood sugar? ›
Specific research on overnight oats from 2019 reveals that oats maintain their lower blood sugar impact and insulin response when soaked in skim milk overnight. Now that you know some of the benefits of oats, you may be looking for some tasty recipes for overnight oats.
How many times a week should you eat overnight oats? ›
Overnight oats are perfectly safe to be eaten every day. You may even eat them every morning if you like. However, some say that they feel oats give them digestive issues; overnight oats are not unsafe for those without medical conditions that affect digestion.
What not to add in overnight oats? ›
Here's what not to do when making overnight oats.
- Using water instead of milk. ...
- Forgetting to add salt. ...
- Using instant or steel cut oats. ...
- Adding berries to your oats at night. ...
- Not stirring your overnight oats. ...
- Forgetting to add spices and seasonings. ...
- Omitting nuts and seeds. ...
- Assuming you have to eat it cold.
Whatever you do, steer clear of the worst offenders: dried fruit with added sugars, like Craisins or dried pineapple. "These are almost always made with added sugar, if not also an artificial sweetener, says Pennsylvania-based RD Gina Consalvo. "Always choose a fresh fruit instead." Need hard proof?
What liquid to use for overnight oats? ›
The only ratio you need to remember when making overnight oats is 1:1. You'll soak one part rolled oats with one part liquid overnight. Use less liquid if you want thicker oatmeal, more if you like it runny. You can use water or any type of milk (like almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, etc.)
How to lower A1C overnight? ›
While you may want to lower your A1C levels overnight, that can't happen. It took months for your A1C to get where it is. It will take months to lower. Instead of looking for a quick fix, eat healthily and exercise regularly.
Are overnight oats high in cholesterol? ›
Oats can lower cholesterol levels
Many studies have shown that the beta-glucan fiber in oats is effective at reducing both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Beta-glucan may increase the release of cholesterol-rich bile, which reduces the circulating levels of cholesterol in your blood.
No More Worrying about Calories
A cup of oats delivered 4 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber to help lower body weight, improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. It also provided health-building minerals such as phosphorus and magnesium.
What will happen if you start eating oats every day? ›
Studies show that oats and oatmeal have many health benefits. These include weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, and a reduced risk of heart disease. Oats are among the healthiest grains on earth. They're a gluten-free whole grain and a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
Is it OK to eat oats every night? ›
There is no particular time to eat oats. You can consume the oats at lunch and dinner too. This cereal, however, is consumed in breakfast mostly. It contains fiber, magnesium, complex carbohydrates, etc, which help in keeping your tummy full for a longer time, thus, reducing overeating.
Can the body digest overnight oats? ›
Easier for you to digest and absorb its nutrients
It is quite common for resistant starches to pass through your digestive tract intact, which also means that your body doesn't benefit from the nutrients they hold. By soaking the oats overnight, you break them down making it easier for your body to digest.
Do overnight oats cause bloating? ›
When simply soaking oats overnight without cooking them, they are more likely to be troublesome to your digestion than cooked oats. That means you're more likely to experience those GI symptoms like bloating, flatulence, and stomach cramps.
