Searching for the perfect oatmeal to kickstart your day? Look no further! This breakfast staple, a centuries-old favorite, boasts a winning combo of complex carbohydrates and fiber for sustained energy. But with overflowing shelves packed with endless varieties, finding the healthiest oatmeal can be a challenge.
We'll delve into the world of oatmeal, exploring different oat types (steel-cut, rolled, etc.) and their unique health benefits. Nutritionist Olivia Hensal provides her expertise to identify the top oatmeal picks, guaranteed to keep you energized and satisfied. We'll also provide insightful tips for incorporating healthy oats into your baking routine, making oatmeal a breakfast and baking win-win. So ditch the confusion and discover the perfect, health-boosting bowl of oatmeal (and delicious baked goods!), as we will help you find a product from our line-up of best-selling products from sites like Amazon.
Quick List - Top Healthiest Oatmeal
B&G Foods
Good Source of Fiber and Versatile
Olivia is a licensed Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Dietitian Nutritionist, and Health Coach. She has over 6+ years of experience in the health & wellness space and is passionate about supporting women and families struggling with chronic disease. Using the functional medicine framework, Olivia starts upstream by identifying the root cause of the problem rather than applying the conventional quick-fix, band-aid approach.
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Table of Contents
Oatmeal's reputation as a nutritious breakfast staple is well-earned. It boasts a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. But its true star is soluble fiber, which helps reduce bad cholesterol and promote heart health. Oatmeal also contains resistant starch, beneficial for digestion and blood sugar control.
However, some individuals may experience blood sugar spikes due to its carbohydrate content. To prevent this, pair your oatmeal with healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and nut butter, creating a balanced and satiating breakfast.
Oatmeal's role in weight management is promising. The resistant starch content keeps you feeling fuller for longer, reducing cravings and potential overeating. Additionally, it supports healthy gut bacteria, which can influence metabolism and digestion, potentially aiding weight loss efforts.
The high fiber in steel-cut oats, compared to other types, can have more beneficial impacts on the gut and blood sugar.
Steel-cut oats (or Irish or Scottish oats) are the least processed and are simply oat groats that have been chopped into smaller pieces. They’re chewy, highly textured, and take up to 30 minutes to cook.
They also boast a natural, nutty profile and more fiber content compared to the milder rolled or quick oats - though there really isn't too much difference in their overall nutritional value.
While there isn’t too much difference in nutrition between the different types, steel-cut and rolled oats tend to have slightly more fiber per serving than quick oats due to being less processed.
Rolled oats (or old-fashioned oats) are steamed and rolled flat, which helps extend their shelf life. They hold their shape fairly well and have a slightly chewy texture. They usually cook within five minutes.
These are the types of oats you'll often see incorporated into various desserts or granola due to their soft texture and versatility.
Quick oats are the most processed. They’re pre-cooked, dried, and pressed extra thin to make them—you guessed it—quick cooking. They cook within a minute or two and have a soft, mushy texture.
Note, however, that they're not the same as instant oats, which are usually ground down further and have more additives and flavorings in them to make them taste better.
For weight loss, opt for less processed options like steel-cut oats, which should have less than 5g of sugar and 250 calories per serving.
While oatmeal boasts weight-management benefits, sugary varieties can derail your goals. Opt for options with less than 5 grams of added sugar per serving. While calorie count matters, it's not the sole focus. For pre-packaged options, look for products with no more than 250 calories per serving to avoid going over your daily limits.
Steel-cut oats are a great choice for weight management, offering a higher fiber content and a chewier texture that promotes satiety. Remember, you can always customize your oatmeal with healthy add-ins like nuts, seeds, and berries for extra flavor and nutrients.
These additional ingredients can really help to make your bowl of oatmeal more interesting, which can be good for those who don’t normally like the texture of plain oatmeal.
Some common additions include chia seeds, flax seeds, millet, and quinoa, which can add additional fiber, protein, and trace minerals to your morning oatmeal to make you feel fuller and add to your nutrient profile. Just be sure that the only things added are whole foods ingredients and not sweeteners or artificial flavorings.
Products with the Non-GMO Project logo, USDA Organic label, and QAI (Quality Assurance International) Organic Certification stamp are generally trustworthy.
For gluten-free needs, oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to choose products labeled "gluten-free" to avoid potential cross-contamination during processing. Look for trusted brands known for their commitment to quality control - like Bob's Red Mill. Remember, you can always contact the manufacturer directly if you have any questions.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||||
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Type | Net Content | Calories per Serving | Fiber Content | Ingredients | No Additives | Cooking Time | Gluten-free | Organic | |||||
1 | Post Holdings Better Oats|Steel Cut Original|6 pack | ![]() | Quick, Easy, and Nutritious | Steel Cut Oats, Instant Oats | 11.6 oz. | 130 kcal | 4 g | Whole Grain Steel Cut Oats, Flaxseed, Stearic Acid, Salt | 2.5 min. | ||||
2 | Bob's Red Mill Organic Extra Thick Rolled Oats |4 pack | ![]() | Perfect for Both Breakfast and Baking | Rolled Oats | 32 oz. | 180 kcal | 4 g | Organic Whole Grain Oats | 2 min. (microwave), 10 min. (stovetop) | ||||
3 | Nature's Path Organic Old Fashioned Oats | ![]() | Nutritiously Packed Start to Your Mornings | Rolled Oats | 18 oz. | 150 kcal | 4 g | Organic Whole Grain Rolled Oats | unknown | ||||
4 | B&G Foods McCann's Irish Oatmeal|Traditional Steel Cut Oats |6 pack | ![]() | Good Source of Fiber and Versatile | Steel Cut Oats | 28 oz. | 140 kcal | 4 g | Whole Grain Oats | unknown | ||||
5 | BariWise Instant Protein Oatmeal, Apples & Cinnamon | ![]() | Easy Option for Those Busy Mornings | Instant Oats | 7.28 oz. (net weight), 1.04 oz. per packet | 110 kcal | 2 g | Instant Oats, Soy Protein, Milk Protein Isolate, Dried Diced Apples, Baked Apple Flavor, Ground Cinnamon, Xanthan Powder, Sodium Bicarbonate, Salt, Citric Acid, Sucralose | 1.5-2 min. | ||||
6 | Amazon Happy Belly|Instant Oatmeal, Original | ![]() | Simple, Yet Satisfying | Rolled Oats、Instant Oats | 11.85 oz. (net weight), 0.98 oz. per packet | 110 kcal | 3 g | Whole Grain Rolled Oats, Whole Grain Oat Flour, Contains Less Than 2% of Calcium Carbonate (A Source of Calcium), Salt, Guar Gum, Caramel Color, Ferric Orthophosphate (A Source of Iron), Vitamin A Palmitate | 1-2 min. | ||||
7 | Nature's Path Qi'a Superfood Organic Gluten Free Creamy Coconut Instant Oatmeal | ![]() | Packed with Superfood Ingredients | Rolled Oats、Instant Oats | 8 oz. | 160 kcal | 5 g | Organic rolled oats, organic dried coconut, organic buckwheat groats, organic inulin, organic chia seeds, organic hemp seeds, organic coconut flavor | unknown | ||||
8 | Great River Milling Steel Cut Oatmeal, Organic |4 pack | ![]() | Heart-Healthy Breakfast Option | Steel Cut Oats | 22 oz. | 170 kcal | 5 g | Organic Steel Cut Oats | 4-6 min. (microwave), 8-10 min. (stovetop) | ||||
9 | Coach's Oats 100% Whole Grain Organic Oatmeal | ![]() | Quick and Never Mushy | Steel Cut Oats, Quick Oats | 48 oz. | 160 kcal | 4 g | Organic Whole Grain Oats | 3.5 min. (microwave), 4 min. (stovetop) | ||||
10 | Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Rolled Oats | ![]() | Fresh, Delicious, and Organic | Rolled Oats | 40 oz. | 150 kcal | 4 g | Organic Rolled Oats | unknown |
Type | Steel Cut Oats, Instant Oats |
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Calories per Serving | 130 kcal |
Fiber Content | 4 g |
Enjoy the wholesome goodness of Better Oats Steel Cut Instant Oatmeal, made with premium steel cut oats that are cut thick to preserve their natural texture. With the addition of flax seeds, this oatmeal not only delivers great taste and texture but also serves as a good source of ALA omega-3.
Preparing this nutritious oatmeal is a breeze, taking just 2.5 minutes to cook. What sets Better Oats apart is their innovative built-in measuring cup pouch, which eliminates the need to search for a measuring cup. This feature ensures that you add the perfect amount of water for a consistently delicious batch of oatmeal every time. Each serving contains 31g of whole grains, making it a hearty and satisfying breakfast option that will keep you fueled throughout the morning.
Net Content | 11.6 oz. |
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Ingredients | Whole Grain Steel Cut Oats, Flaxseed, Stearic Acid, Salt |
Cooking Time | 2.5 min. |
Type | Rolled Oats |
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Calories per Serving | 180 kcal |
Fiber Content | 4 g |
Bob's Red Mill's Organic Extra Thick Rolled Oats are toasted and freshly milled from the highest quality organic oats. These oats are not just thick, but extra thick, ensuring a hearty and satisfying texture that will keep you full and energized throughout the day. Certified Organic by QAI and Non-GMO Project Verified, these oats are a testament to the brand's commitment to sourcing raw materials that are not modified through genetic engineering.
In addition to their delightful texture and organic certification, these oats are also a good source of fiber, providing 14% of your daily value in just one serving. Whether enjoyed as a warm bowl of oatmeal topped with your favorite fruits and nuts or used in baking for added texture and nutrition, these Organic Extra Thick Rolled Oats are sure to become a staple in your pantry.
Net Content | 32 oz. |
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Ingredients | Organic Whole Grain Oats |
Cooking Time | 2 min. (microwave), 10 min. (stovetop) |
Type | Rolled Oats |
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Calories per Serving | 150 kcal |
Fiber Content | 4 g |
Indulge in the fresh, nutritious goodness of Nature's Path Oatmeal, made with whole grain rolled oats for a simple and clean taste that fills you up without any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. With no added sugar or trans fat, this oatmeal offers 5g of protein per serving, providing the energy you need to start your day right.
Certified USDA organic and Non-GMO Project Verified, this oatmeal embodies the true values of Nature's Path, embracing sustainable processes and wholefood simple ingredients. Whether enjoyed hot or as overnight oats, this oatmeal provides a creamy and filling texture that warms your body and awakens your taste buds. With 40g of whole grains and 4g of fiber per serving, Nature's Path Oatmeal is a breakfast essential that satisfies your hearty appetite and fuels you with wholesome goodness.
Net Content | 18 oz. |
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Ingredients | Organic Whole Grain Rolled Oats |
Cooking Time | unknown |
Type | Steel Cut Oats |
---|---|
Calories per Serving | 140 kcal |
Fiber Content | 4 g |
McCann's Steel Cut Irish Oatmeal offers a convenient and nutritious breakfast option, made with premium-quality whole grain oats imported from Ireland. This instant oatmeal delivers a rich texture and nutty flavor that is uniquely McCann's, providing a satisfying and flavorful start to your day.
Not only is this steel cut oatmeal a good source of fiber, but it is also non-GMO verified and certified kosher. Enjoy this oatmeal as a hot cereal breakfast by simply adding oats to boiling water and simmering for one minute, or prepare it as traditional Irish porridge by cooking it in briskly boiling water for a smooth and thick consistency. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a versatile baking ingredient, McCann's Steel Cut Irish Oatmeal provides a delicious and nutritious way to start your day.
Net Content | 28 oz. |
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Ingredients | Whole Grain Oats |
Cooking Time | unknown |
Type | Instant Oats |
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Calories per Serving | 110 kcal |
Fiber Content | 2 g |
BariWise Instant Oatmeal is easy to prepare in the microwave or on the stovetop, offering a quick and nutritious meal option for those busy mornings. With just 1g of fat, 8g of net carbs, and no added sugar, BariWise Instant Oatmeal is a delicious and guilt-free way to start your day.
Net Content | 7.28 oz. (net weight), 1.04 oz. per packet |
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Ingredients | Instant Oats, Soy Protein, Milk Protein Isolate, Dried Diced Apples, Baked Apple Flavor, Ground Cinnamon, Xanthan Powder, Sodium Bicarbonate, Salt, Citric Acid, Sucralose |
Cooking Time | 1.5-2 min. |
Type | Rolled Oats、Instant Oats |
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Calories per Serving | 110 kcal |
Fiber Content | 3 g |
Amazon's Happy Belly Instant Oatmeal is made with 100% Whole-Grain Oats. It offers a wholesome and nutritious breakfast option with no artificial flavors or added sugars. Packed with 3g of fiber and 4g of protein per serving, these oats are a satisfying choice to start your day.
Reviewers appreciate the taste, value, and ease of use of this breakfast cereal, finding it delicious and perfect for a quick warm snack. Some are also pleased with the quantity and quality of the product, although opinions are mixed on the serving size and texture.
Net Content | 11.85 oz. (net weight), 0.98 oz. per packet |
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Ingredients | Whole Grain Rolled Oats, Whole Grain Oat Flour, Contains Less Than 2% of Calcium Carbonate (A Source of Calcium), Salt, Guar Gum, Caramel Color, Ferric Orthophosphate (A Source of Iron), Vitamin A Palmitate |
Cooking Time | 1-2 min. |
Type | Rolled Oats、Instant Oats |
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Calories per Serving | 160 kcal |
Fiber Content | 5 g |
Nature's Path Qi'a Superfood Gluten-Free Oatmeal is a unique blend of gluten-free oats, dried coconut, buckwheat groats, chia seeds, and hemp seeds, offering a nutritious and delicious breakfast option. With zero added sugar and a creamy taste, this oatmeal has a thick, hearty texture that can be enjoyed on its own or topped with fruits and nuts. Each box contains 6 packets of this popular oatmeal, providing a convenient and satisfying meal option.
Qi'a oatmeal is carefully crafted with certified USDA organic and Non-GMO ingredients, ensuring a deliciously nutritious breakfast without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Each serving contains 6g of protein, 5g of fiber, and is a source of omega-3 fats, providing a wholesome and satisfying meal option for mindful eaters.
Net Content | 8 oz. |
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Ingredients | Organic rolled oats, organic dried coconut, organic buckwheat groats, organic inulin, organic chia seeds, organic hemp seeds, organic coconut flavor |
Cooking Time | unknown |
Type | Steel Cut Oats |
---|---|
Calories per Serving | 170 kcal |
Fiber Content | 5 g |
Great River Milling's Steel Cut Oats offer a clean and heart-healthy breakfast option, free from chemicals and rich in whole grain nutrition. With 5g of fiber per serving, these oats provide a good source of plant-based protein and iron. Certified Organic and Kosher approved, these oats are made from organic grains that are Non-GMO, ensuring high quality and environmentally friendly production.
Each serving of Great River Organic Milling's Steel Cut Oats provides 170 calories, making them a satisfying and nutritious addition to your diet. Whether enjoyed as a warm bowl of oatmeal or used in baking, these oats offer a delicious and wholesome way to start your day. Their heart-healthy benefits, along with their rich fiber and protein content, make them a versatile and nutritious choice for those looking to add more whole grains to their diet.
Net Content | 22 oz. |
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Ingredients | Organic Steel Cut Oats |
Cooking Time | 4-6 min. (microwave), 8-10 min. (stovetop) |
Type | Steel Cut Oats, Quick Oats |
---|---|
Calories per Serving | 160 kcal |
Fiber Content | 4 g |
Coach's Oats Organic Whole Grain Oatmeal offers the delightful texture and taste of steel-cut oats without the lengthy cooking time. Ready in just 3 to 5 minutes on the stove or in the microwave, this oatmeal provides a quick and convenient breakfast option. Made from whole grain oatmeal with no additives, it's a wholesome choice for starting your day right. Coach's Oats' unique Cracked n' Toasted method ensures that the oats are never mushy, always retaining their hearty texture and delicious flavor.
Whether you prefer your oatmeal hot or as overnight oats, Coach's Oats is a versatile option that can also be used in baking. With its quick cooking time and hearty texture, it's perfect for those busy mornings when you need a nutritious breakfast in a hurry.
Net Content | 48 oz. |
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Ingredients | Organic Whole Grain Oats |
Cooking Time | 3.5 min. (microwave), 4 min. (stovetop) |
Type | Rolled Oats |
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Calories per Serving | 150 kcal |
Fiber Content | 4 g |
Terrasoul Superfoods' Organic Rolled Oats offer a delicious and fresh organic option for those seeking high-quality oats. Packaged in a convenient 2.5 lb. resealable pouch, these rolled oats are perfect for a variety of uses. They are Certified Organic and batch tested for gluten-free at <10ppm, making them a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Terrasoul Superfoods' rolled oats are also Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified Kosher, meeting a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions.
These old-fashioned rolled oats are flat and flakey cut, providing a traditional texture and taste. Grown on organic farms in the Western Canadian Prairie, they are a wholesome and nutritious choice for your breakfast or baking needs. Whether you enjoy them as a warm bowl of oatmeal or use them in baking recipes, Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Rolled Oats are a versatile and healthy option that you can feel good about eating.
Net Content | 40 oz. |
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Ingredients | Organic Rolled Oats |
Cooking Time | unknown |
Check out this simple yet tasty recipe for oatmeal cookies from Nutritionist Olivia Hensal. Whether you are looking for a sweet, fiber-rich snack or a tasty, healthy treat for kids, this recipe is a great start to incorporating oatmeal into your diet.
Ingredients:
Looking for other ways to switch over to a healthier lifestyle? You can try natural sweeteners, snacks, and, when you don't have time, meal replacements. You can even give or receive gift baskets full of good-for-you foods. Check out some of our other articles for more information!
No. 1: Post Holdings|Better Oats|Steel Cut Original|6 pack
No. 2: Bob's Red Mill|Organic Extra Thick Rolled Oats |4 pack
No. 3: Nature's Path|Organic Old Fashioned Oats
No. 4: B&G Foods|McCann's Irish Oatmeal|Traditional Steel Cut Oats |6 pack
No. 5: BariWise |Instant Protein Oatmeal, Apples & Cinnamon
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