Oats are considered to be one of the healthiest grains on earth. Find out why and how to incorporate this breakfast staple into your morning routine.

If your breakfast options need a healthy shake-up, look no further than oats — and more specifically, oatmeal.

Oats pack a nutritious punch as they’re a great source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

Half a cup (78 grams) of dry oats contains a whopping 13 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber.

They also contain:

  • Manganese:
    191% RDI
  • Phosphorus:
    41% RDI
  • Magnesium:
    34% RDI
  • Copper:
    24% RDI
  • Iron: 20%
    RDI
  • Zinc:
    20% RDI
  • Folate:
    11% RDI
  • Vitamin B-1
    (thiamin):
    39% RDI
  • Vitamin B-5
    (pantothenic acid):
    10% RDI

Known scientifically as Avena sativa, this whole grain is suggested to offer a number of health benefits including:

  • aiding in weight loss
  • lowering blood sugar levels
  • reducing risk of heart disease

Oats, and more specifically colloidal oatmeal, are also known to help topically treat symptoms of various skin conditions, such as eczema.

For some inspiration to get you started, check out some of these delicious ideas that we found on Instagram.

Banana, passion fruit, mango, and coconut mylk oatmeal via @thefitfabfoodie

Ginger, ground flaxseed, and banana oatmeal with almond milk via @plantbasedrd

Cinnamon, figs, almond butter, oats, and nuts bircher bowl with coconut yogurt via @twospoons.ca

Peanut butter, caramelized bananas, raspberries, and vegan protein chocolate oatmeal via @xanjuschx

Apple butter and nut and seed granola oatmeal with homemade sweetened condensed almond milk via @looneyforfood

Cinnamon, ground flaxseed, and banana oatmeal with almond milk via @plantbasedrd

Runny egg, kale, and portobello mushroom oatmeal with vegetable stock via @honeysuckle