Oatmeal is widely recognized as a highly nutritious breakfast option that promotes good health. It has been scientifically proven that oatmeal can contribute to a longer life.
However, despite its many health benefits, consuming excessive amounts of oatmeal can lead to certain negative effects on the body.
To shed light on this matter, we consulted doctors and dietitians to understand the consequences of consuming too much oatmeal in a single sitting.
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1. Consuming a lot more sugar than you realize
People often prefer their oatmeal to be sweeter to avoid a bland taste. They do this by adding sugar, chocolate chips, and other sweet foods.
However, these additions can reduce the overall nutritional value of oatmeal because they add extra calories, fat, sugar, and carbohydrates.
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2. Restricting the variety of nutrient
While having oatmeal for breakfast every day can provide you with energy and nutrition, it limits the range of healthy foods you can enjoy in the morning.
Essentially, you’re missing out on nourishing your body with other nutritious foods and restricting your taste preferences. This means you’re missing out on the chance to explore other delicious foods that can provide you with similar nutrition and energy.
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3. Can cause malnutrition and loss of muscle mass
While oatmeal can aid in weight loss by reducing hunger, consuming excessive amounts of it can result in malnutrition and muscle loss.
This is because oatmeal keeps you feeling full for extended periods, which can make it difficult for your body to signal when it’s time to eat more throughout the day.
Relying heavily on oatmeal as your primary food source can also impact cognitive functions, leading to reduced alertness and sharpness.
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4. Can make you feel bloated
Oatmeal is rich in fiber, it can cause bloating during digestion, especially if you’re not accustomed to eating it regularly. According to nutrition expert, it’s best to start with a small portion if you’re new to oats to minimize bloating.
To reduce these side effects, it’s recommended to start with a small quantity and gradually increase it. If you consume larger portions of oatmeal at once, the higher fiber content may lead to bloating.
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5. Can cause you to gain weight
Consuming a large portion of oatmeal can contribute to weight gain. It’s important to be mindful of the toppings you add as well.
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While a tablespoon or two of crushed walnuts or flaxseeds is beneficial, excessive amounts of butter or sugar should be avoided.
