STWW: Chocolate Chip Oatmeal

For as long as I can remember, my grandpa has been eating oatmeal for breakfast every morning (or as he says, porridge). My parents have recently gotten into it too, realizing the benefits of the grain on the human body. Oatmeal, other than being a warm, delicious breakfast is great because:

1. It's a whole grain and a source of fiber: so it lowers your risk for many diseases such as type 2 diabetes (by stabilizing blood sugar levels) and high blood pressure. It also helps lower the risk hemorrhoids and provides relief for those suffering from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
2. It's great for weight loss: being fibrous, it keeps you full longer so you don't end up snacking or eating soon after.
3. It lowers your cholesterol: oatmeal helps lower your LDL, or your bad cholesterol, and therefore reduces your risk of cardiovascular diseases and strokes
4. It enhances your immune system: oats contain beta-glucan which enhances your immune system to respond to and eliminate bacterial infections.
*Information from: 1 / 2 / 3

We stay away from the flavoured pouches of oatmeal as they have a lot of sugar and are unhealthy. My mom makes a healthy mix of oatmeal, combining plain oats, ground almonds, raisins, a touch of brown sugar and cinnamon. I dislike cinnamon and so I've come up with a recipe that's less healthier but a lot tastier (but still healthy!).

1/2 c. Quick Oats Almond Milk Chocolate Chips 1 Banana

Put your oats in a bowl and cover with almond milk Stir your oats so all of it is coated with milk Heat up your oats in the microwave in 30 second intervals for 1.5 minutes, stirring in between. If you heat it all at once, it will explode! You can add your chocolate chips while you heat it or all at the end, stirring them in to distribute the chocolate Slice your banana and add on top!

I also make this for my little brother who loves it - adding chocolate to most things make for delicious food. I hope this inspires you to eat this healthy grain, dressing it up with anything from chocolate to fruits and nuts - get creative with your breakfast!

How do you eat your oatmeal? If you don't eat oatmeal, what food do you generally eat for breakfast?