Not that there’s anything wrong with ’em, but is anyone else tired of the same old oatmeal toppings? Mixed berries, almond butter, and chopped walnuts can only hold our interest for so long. But that doesn’t mean oatmeal should go anywhere. It’s loaded with fiber and has been shown to lower cholesterol, making it a tried and true breakfast superfood. So how do you mix things up when you’re in an oatmeal slump? We asked some of our favorite nutrition experts for creative combinations to try, starting with fruit.
Pineapple
Get creative with fruity options like pear, nectarine, mango, pineapple, and more, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson Vandana Sheth, R.D.N, CDE, suggests. On top of being a killer source of vitamin C, pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, which has inflammation- and indigestion-fighting powers.
Figs
Figs have more potassium than bananas, and a hearty dose of iron, to boot.
Mandarin Oranges
Angela Ginn-Meadow, R.D., LDN, CDE, recommends these slivers of citrus. They pack some serious A and C, as well as some filling fiber.
Pomegranate Seeds
Loaded with antioxidants, these little seeds also provide fiber, folate, and vitamins C and K.
Passionfruit
Spoon some into your bowl for a dose of fiber and vitamins A and C.
Dark Chocolate
Lucky for us, dark chocolate is not off limits. Not only does it boost your mood and fill you up, but it also may decrease stroke risk and improve blood flow. Ginn-Meadow recommends dried cherries and shaved dark chocolate in your bowl, while Sheth suggests cocoa powder or dark chocolate chips. Dawn Jackson Blatner, R.D.N, author of The Flexitarian Diet raises the stakes with this mouthwatering combo: banana, unsweetened cocoa powder, and walnuts.
Carrots
Blatner suggests adding raisins and pecans to a bowl of oatmeal with shredded carrots. Carrots famously provide heaps of vitamin A, but they also boast fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and K.
Zucchini
Turns out zoat, yes, that’s zucchini oats, are a thing. Blatner recommends adding maple syrup and sunflower seeds to your next (or first!) bowl of oats and zucchini. This summery green is a low-calorie source of lots of vitamins, as well as potassium and fiber.
Ginger
Ginger seems to contain anti-inflammatory properties and may help soothe stomachaches. Blatner gets fancy with candied ginger, plum, and cashews.
Mint Leaves
Beside adding some fresh flavor, mint may help alleviate uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms.
