Is porridge really good for you?

• Loaded with vitamins and minerals such as zinc, iron, magnesium and B vitamins.
• 6g of protein per 1/2 cup dry oats
• Rich in polyphenols
• Heart-healthy
• Fibre-rich

One of the many things that I have come to love about oats is the fact that they’re such a great source of prebiotic fibre, making them an incredibly gut healthy breakfast – especially for those who may not be a fan of yogurt or fermented foods.

Prebiotics are essentially a food source for the beneficial bacteria in your gut. They can be consumed either through your diet or taken as a supplement.

One of the fibres found in oats is called beta-glucan, a type of fibre that somewhat dissolves in water and forms a thick, gel-like solution in the gut – a property that is responsible for several well-known benefits:

• Supporting feelings of fullness
• Reducing blood sugar and insulin response
• Feeding healthy gut bacteria
• Reducing cholesterol levels (total & LDL)

If there’s one thing that I’ve learned through years of working in the health industry, it’s that supporting your health and nourishing your body really is about consistency. While it’s great to include ‘healthy’ foods in your diet now and again, if you really want to feel the difference, then finding a way to enjoy the foods which we know are good for us is the best way forward in the long run.

How to cook porridge to perfection

"I’m Scottish so I was always taught to cook the oats themselves – either porridge or pinhead – in just water with a tiny pinch of salt. Only then should you add your toppings and a splash of milk or cream if it’s really cold out. I personally like a splash of milk and a big spoon of deep roast peanut butter and raspberry jam."
– Adam Bush, former deputy food editor

"I use fine milled porridge oats, I think you get a stodgier/smoother porridge which is the consistency I’m looking for, for comfort and warmth on chilly mornings. I keep rolled oats in the cupboard too, for granolas, crumbles or topping cakes."
– Anna Glover, Food Director

Thanks to their versatility, oats are pretty easy to include in your diet. If porridge isn't for you, you can always start with healthy homemade granola, snack bars or swap out oat flour in your baking.

What is the best milk for porridge?

This will often come down to personal preference. From a health perspective, whole milk is a nutritious option or unsweetened almond milk for those looking for a non-dairy alternative. Oat milk or a touch of cream make for a creamy bowl, while soya or hemp milk are good choices for those looking for a plant-based protein boost.

Check out our detailed guide for even more of our favourite non-dairy milks.

Make your toppings count…

I’m a big believer in creating the perfect marriage between taste, nourishment and satisfaction when it comes to what I’m eating. In fact, having food that both smells appealing and is visually satisfying signals to the body that a meal is coming and signals the digestive system to get prepared.

"I like making fruit compotes to add sweetness to the porridge without having to add extra sugar or honey, such as stewed apple with cinnamon and sultanas or rhubarb with orange juice then adding a few chopped toasted nuts or seeds for crunch, and an extra splash of milk for creaminess. A couple of tsps of cocoa can turn plain porridge into a chocolatey treat, too. Top with sliced banana and a grating of dark choc so it melts on top."
– Anna Glover, Food Director

Want even more inspiration? Try our easy porridge topping ideas.

What to do when porridge is just a bit too carby?

As versatile and nourishing as porridge can be, it still might not be for everyone. If you find that you’re sensitive to those heaping bowls of oats or perhaps even grains in general, here are a few tips to make porridge right for you:

• Gluten-sensitive? Try certified gluten-free oats
• Sugar conscious? For anyone who struggles with blood sugar balance or energy dips, a great solution is to add more fat and/or protein to your oats. One of my favourite ways to do this is by adding some nut butter or seeds such as chia or hemp seeds. You could also try adding a scoop of protein powder into the mix.

Not a fan of warm oats? Try our favourite overnight oat recipes.

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All health content on olivemagazine.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. Any healthy content featured by olive is provided as a suggestion of a general balanced diet and should not be relied upon to meet specific dietary requirements. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.