Reality TV star Vicky Pattison has shared one of her preferred breakfast options. Although it may appear quite simple, it’s packed with numerous health benefits. This food keeps you feeling fuller for longer, curbs the urge to snack, and provides an energy boost.
In an interview with Women’s Health, Vicky stressed the importance of variety in her diet, stating that she likes to “keep [her] body on its toes” when it comes to meals. After years of struggling with negative body image and reverse body dysmorphia, the 37-year-old has adopted a “sensible and kind” approach to food.
Among her favourite breakfast options, porridge stands out. She mentioned it twice when sharing the various meals she eats – once with protein powder and another bowl topped with blueberries and honey.
While porridge might seem like a plain choice, it boasts a wealth of health benefits and is relatively affordable, making it easy to incorporate into your diet. Most shops sell affordable oats, such as Aldi’s Everyday Essentials pack, which makes hearty bowls from 1kg of oats for 90p, working out to 9p a bowl.
The versatile dish is quick to prepare in the microwave or on the hob, and many people choose to add healthy toppings like fruit to increase the benefits. Porridge oats are rich in fibre and protein, which can help you feel full, potentially decreasing your calorie intake and snacking desires so you maintain a healthy weight, reports the Mirror.
It’s also a source of sustained energy due to its magnesium and vitamin B6 content, helping to combat fatigue. Experts at the British Heart Foundation highlight that porridge oats are whole grains containing a soluble fibre known as beta-glucan.
Porridge oats are rich in antioxidants, like polyphenols and avenanthramides. Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting our cells from damage and may lower the chances of developing various illnesses, such as heart disease, specific types of cancer, and diseases associated with ageing.
Consuming 3g or more of whole grains daily as part of a balanced diet can help lower cholesterol levels. Studies have linked the consumption of whole grains, such as porridge, with a decreased risk of heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and stroke.
Increasing your protein intake has its own advantages, not just for those aiming to build muscle. In fact, it can also support those trying to lose weight.
By achieving your personal protein goal, your body will stop producing ghrelin – a hormone that induces hunger. Instead, it will generate more appetite-suppressing hormones that signal your body to stop eating and curb snack cravings, assisting you in reducing calorie intake and potentially losing weight.