Why You Should Start Adding Bananas To Your Oatmeal

Bananas are a staple in most kitchens. This fruit is delicious, versatile, and packed with nutrients. Here's why you should throw some banana slices into your next bowl of oatmeal.

Bananas have many health benefits. It's widely known that they are a good source of potassium, which can help to regulate blood pressure and keep your heart healthy (via Healthline). They also contain high amounts of vitamin B6 and vitamin C. They are a great source of healthy carbohydrates, occurring either mainly as starch or sugar depending on the ripeness of the banana. Even though ripe bananas have a lot of natural sugars, they have a relatively low glycemic index. This is due in part to their high fiber content, which helps stabilize your blood sugar levels.

Fiber also helps to keep you full, so adding a banana to your bowl of oatmeal (which boasts plenty of fiber on its own) will help you get a satisfying breakfast that's sure to hold you until lunch. Because of its nutrients, eating bananas can improve heart health, help with digestion, and keep the immune system healthy.

Not many people enjoy eating oatmeal plain because it doesn't have much flavor on its own. Instead of adding brown sugar to your oats, mash up a banana and stir it in. You'll get plenty of sweetness plus the additional health benefits of this fruit, unlike processed sugar that has no nutrients (via Cleveland Clinic).

In addition to a banana, you can make your morning bowl of oatmeal even more satisfying by filling it with other nutritious ingredients. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and will add some color and sweetness to your breakfast (via Well + Good). Chia seeds and flaxseeds can up your fiber intake even more while adding a dose of omega-3 fatty acids to the mix. Nut butter will add healthy fats and a delicious rich flavor to your oatmeal. If you want to boost your protein intake, stir in some plain Greek yogurt or a spoonful of your favorite protein powder. But whether it's sliced, diced, or mashed, don't forget the banana.