Oatmeal is a breakfast staple packed with nutrients, high in fiber, and linked to heart health benefits.
But while it’s versatile and easy to customize, certain toppings can quickly make it a calorie-dense meal.
One topping to reconsider? Dried fruit.
Dried fruit can seem like an easy fix for adding flavor, but it’s calorie-heavy and contains concentrated sugars due to its low water content.
This means it’s easy to consume a great amount of sugar without realizing it, which can spike blood sugar levels.
According to Nyheder24, high blood sugar spikes are often followed by cravings and hunger soon after, making it harder to feel satisfied until the next meal.
Instead, consider swapping dried fruit with fresh options like apples, pears, or bananas, which add fiber and sweetness without as much concentrated sugar. If you’re craving flavor without extra calories, try topping your oatmeal with cinnamon or cocoa powder. Both add taste without impacting blood sugar levels as much as dried fruit.
Oatmeal can be a powerhouse breakfast—but it’s worth being mindful of toppings that can add unnecessary sugars and calories.
