Oatmeal itself is a real treasure trove of vitamins, fiber and minerals. The problem begins when we fill a healthy base with high-calorie syrups, sweetened yogurts or add too much dried fruit.
Some popular additions can turn healthy oatmeal into a high-calorie dessert. It’s worth knowing what to avoid so as not to ruin all the health benefits.
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Sugar and sweet syrups
Adding a teaspoon of sugar or caramel topping is a quick fix increase in glucose levels. Such additives not only increase the calorie content of oatmeal, but also lead to sudden spikes in blood sugar, which are quickly followed by a feeling of hunger.
Jams and fruits in syrup
Although jam seems to be an innocent addition, most store versions do contains huge amounts of sugar. The same applies to frozen fruit: they are sweet, but full of preservatives, dyes and thickeners.
Chocolate and chocolate creams
Pieces of milk chocolate or a spoonful of peanut cream with sugar it’s not the best idea. Such products provide large amounts of saturated fats and simple sugars, which burden the pancreas and liver.
Sweetened yogurts
Instead of supporting health, sweetened yogurts only they add sugar. There may be more of it in one serving than in a chocolate bar. A better choice is natural Greek yogurt, which provides protein and probiotics without unnecessary calories.
Raisins, cranberries and dates are often perceived as a healthy source of energy. However, during the drying process, sugars thicken, and a portion of a few tablespoons may contain even as much sugar as a bar. Therefore, it is better to limit their quantity, a handful is the absolute maximum. Likewise with bananas. The more ripe they are, the more simple sugars they contain. If you want to maintain a stable glucose level, choose less ripe fruit or simply add less of it.
