Quaker Oats My Healthy Choice

I’m sure when you read “healthy” in the title an eyebrow raised, because me and healthy are far from friends or even acquaintances. Well, we once were. After Gunner’s birth (now 7 months) I had so many skin issues with my eczema, had bad eating habits and wasn’t taking care of me. One of the main issues that caused my skin problems was the bad eating habits. Once I decided to get back on track of taking care of myself from the inside out, I knew my eating habits had to change just a tad.

One lifestyle change I made was going to the gym. With squats, mountain climbers and all the rest of the unnecessary exercises that made me want to quit ever other set, I knew the morning cereals full of sugar and pizza for lunch were going to have to take a back seat. I did however, remember that I use to love my morning smoothies using Quaker Oats, which you all have seen me on the vlogs time and time again drinking! Just a few changes; I don’t add ANY sugar, sometimes add 10-11 strawberries depending on size and add a tablespoon of flaxseeds.

That’s my go-to breakfast every time when I have the essentials in the house. Now, I had originally bought the Quaker Oats just for my smoothie, but then (thanks to Pinterest) decided to look up how else I could use Quaker Oats. Quaker Oats makes oatmeal– I know a duh moment! It took me a few tries to get use to oats, but eventually I loved it especially when you add some flavor to it. Add any fruits you want, seriously, just chop it up and throw it in the mix. I can only eat strawberries, because I’m still not a fan of much fruit (change takes time!).I’ll add blueberries, strawberries, banana, few drops of honey, and flaxseeds for Ziana’s breakfast; great source of antioxidants (for good skin) and potassium (good for muscle tissue).

Benefits of Quaker Oats:
– Energy booster
– Rich in fiber
– Good Source of Protein
– Helps reduce cholesterol
– May help reduce the risk of high Blood Pressure
– Helps maintain weight

One lifestyle change I made was going to the gym. With squats, mountain climbers and all the rest of the unnecessary exercises that made me want to quit ever other set, I knew the morning cereals full of sugar and pizza for lunch were going to have to take a back seat. I did however, remember that I use to love my morning smoothies using Quaker Oats, which you all have seen me on the vlogs time and time again drinking! Just a few changes; I don’t add ANY sugar, sometimes add 10-11 strawberries depending on size and add a tablespoon of flaxseeds.

That’s my go-to breakfast every time when I have the essentials in the house. Now, I had originally bought the Quaker Oats just for my smoothie, but then (thanks to Pinterest) decided to look up how else I could use Quaker Oats. Quaker Oats makes oatmeal– I know a duh moment! It took me a few tries to get use to oats, but eventually I loved it especially when you add some flavor to it. Add any fruits you want, seriously, just chop it up and throw it in the mix. I can only eat strawberries, because I’m still not a fan of much fruit (change takes time!).I’ll add blueberries, strawberries, banana, few drops of honey, and flaxseeds for Ziana’s breakfast; great source of antioxidants (for good skin) and potassium (good for muscle tissue). Now breakfast should be quick, right? Who has the time to get themselves ready, the kids ready and still make breakfast? I do. I want you guys to prepare yourself because I might just blow your mind. Buy a mason jar or a few– make the oatmeal, add all you want to add to it and put in the fridge. Next day, stick it in the microwave and you have an instant oatmeal breakfast. You’re welcome, no need for the applause!

You can make just about anything using quaker oats; more delicious smoothies, granola bars, cookies, pancakes and even meatloaf– MEATLOAF?? Oh, the things you find on Pinterest. I’ll have some of the recipes down below, but also check out Quaker Oats for even more innovative dinner ideas.

What will you be creating?

Pancakes:
1 1/4 Cups all-purpose flour
1/2 Cup Quaker® Oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked) BUY NOW
2 Teaspoons baking powder
1/4 Teaspoon salt (optional)
1 1/4 Cups fat-free milk
1 Egg, lightly beaten
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
Stir-ins (optional):
1 Cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw)
1 Medium-size ripe banana, mashed, and 1?8 Teaspoon ground nutmeg
3/4 Cup finely chopped apple, 1?4 Cup chopped nuts and 1?2 Teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 Cup semisweet chocolate chips

PREPARATION:
In large bowl, combine flour, oats, baking powder and salt; mix well. In medium bowl, combine milk, egg and oil; blend well. Add to dry ingredients all at once; stir just until dry ingredients are moistened. (Do not overmix) Add one of the stir-in options, if desired; mix gently. Heat skillet over medium-high heat (or preheat electric skillet or griddle to 375°F). Lightly grease skillet. For each pancake, pour 1?4 cup batter into hot skillet. Turn when tops are covered with bubbles and edges look cooked. Turn only once.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Cup Quaker® Oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked) BUY NOW
1 Cup Low-fat milk
1 Teaspoon Chia seeds
1/2 Teaspoon Vanilla extract
1 Teaspoon Cinnamon
1/2 Cup Bananas, sliced
1/4 Cup Creamy peanut butter
1 Tablespoon(s) Honey

PREPARATION:
Add Quaker® Oats to a container of your choice and pour in milk. Mix in vanilla extract, chia seeds, and cinnamon. Alternate between layers of peanut butter and layers of sliced banana. Drizzle with honey. Place in fridge and enjoy in the morning or a few hours later!