You’ve probably heard experts talk about the importance of a nutritious breakfast — it’s often called the most significant meal of the day for a reason.

However, when you’re busy, it can be challenging to carve out the time and energy to prepare a properly balanced meal. Could oatmeal be the solution?

According to a recent study by market research firm Wise Guy Reports, there is a growing consumer interest in whole grain oatmeal. This trend is expected to keep rising due to increasing health awareness and a greater need for easy breakfast choices.

Whether you’re thinking of making a baked oatmeal dish, overnight oats, or classic stovetop oatmeal, here’s what nutrition specialists want you to know about incorporating oats into your meal routine.

Are Oats Good for Your Health?

In short: Absolutely.

Registered dietitian Miranda Galati informs YSL News that “Oats are incredibly nutrient-rich, supporting digestion, heart health, and even weight control.” They contain a special fiber called beta-glucan, which is effective at lowering cholesterol and refining blood sugar levels.

If regulating blood sugar is your focus, choosing groats (whole oat kernels with only the outer hull removed) or steel-cut oats (sliced oat groats) is beneficial, as they digest more slowly, resulting in a lower glycemic index than rolled oats (which are steamed, rolled, and flattened) or instant oats (more extensively processed), according to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Oatmeal is classified as a whole grain, which generally has more fiber, protein, and micronutrients compared to refined grains. (Although, refined grains, like white rice and white bread, do provide some useful nutrients.)

The USDA suggests that half of your daily grain intake should consist of whole grains. While increasing consumption of “minimally-processed grains” is encouraged, Galati notes, “You don’t have to do this 100% of the time.”

What’s the Best Breakfast Option?

Most nutritionists agree that what counts as the “best” breakfast can depend on individual needs, body type, and health objectives.

That being said, Galati states that oats are “definitely among the most nutritious breakfast options.” She suggests enhancing them further by combining them with other healthy ingredients for a “more satisfying and blood sugar-stable” meal.

“To improve blood sugar response, pair the carbohydrates in oats with a source of protein, healthy fats, and additional fiber,” she recommends. “Cook oats in rich, protein-dense milk like dairy or soy, top with berries, and include a spoonful of nut butter. For added protein, consider stirring in egg whites or protein powder.”

Overall, Galati emphasizes that there isn’t a universal method to healthy eating.

“The ideal food in any category will vary based on your individual needs, finances, culture, health goals, and more,” she shared with YSL News. “It’s beneficial to make nutrient-rich choices when you can, but selecting more processed or convenient foods isn’t inherently negative. As a registered dietitian aiming for you to cultivate a sustainable healthy lifestyle, I advise against the notion that there’s one ‘healthiest’ option for anything.”