Oatmeal Versus Granola
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Ask the Diva: Can You Get the Benefits of Oatmeal From Granola?
Q. I know that eating oatmeal helps lower cholesterol, but does it matter what form you eat it in? Is cooked oatmeal the same as, for example, granola?
Answer. You get the cholesterol-lowering benefits of oats no matter what form you eat them in: oatmeal, muesli, granola, or even oatmeal cookies! But in terms of sugar and calories, granola is much closer to oatmeal cookies than it is to oatmeal or muesli. Despite its healthy reputation, most granola is high in sugar and calories. And you can easily double your trouble if you overlook the fact that a serving of granola is usually a third to a half the size of a serving of other types of cereal.
For a tip on how to make regular oatmeal just as quickly as the instant variety, head on over here.
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.