The Dangers of Flavored Oatmeal

Flavored oatmeal is a popular breakfast option for many people. It's quick, easy, and filling. However, this seemingly healthy meal can be dangerous to your health. In addition to the concerns about artificial colors and flavors, non-organic oats can pose a health risk. This article will discuss the potential dangers of flavored oatmeal and why choosing organic, natural varieties is important.

The Benefits of Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a popular breakfast food that has been linked to various health benefits. It is a great source of fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.^[1] In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming oatmeal can significantly lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.^[1]

Oatmeal is also rich in antioxidants, which can protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation^[1] Furthermore, oatmeal has a low glycemic index, which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels and may be beneficial for individuals with diabetes.^[1] Overall, incorporating oatmeal into your diet can be a simple and delicious way to promote good health.

Without a doubt, flavored oatmeal turns a rather bland food into a delicious experience, but not all flavored oatmeal isn’t created equal. Many added ingredients come with problems; let’s explore the top ones.

Problem #1: Artificial Colors in Flavored Oatmeal

Many flavored oatmeal products contain artificial colors like Yellow 5 and Red 40. These synthetic colors are derived from petroleum and linked to hyperactivity, allergies, and cancer.^[2] In fact, Yellow 5 and Red 40 are banned in some countries due to their potential health risks. Therefore, it's important to read the labels of flavored oatmeal products and avoid those that contain these harmful ingredients.

Problem #2: Non-Organic Oats in Flavored Oatmeal

Conventionally grown oats are often treated with pesticides and other chemicals that can contaminate the oats and pose a health risk. For example, glyphosate, the active ingredient in the weed killer Roundup, has been found in oats and oat-based products.^[3] Glyphosate has been linked to cancer, developmental problems, and hormonal disruption. Choosing organic oats is important to avoid exposure to these harmful chemicals.

Problem #3: Artificial Flavors in Flavored Oatmeal

Flavored oatmeal products also contain artificial flavors that are made from a combination of chemicals. These flavors can trigger allergies, respiratory problems, and digestive issues.^[4] Some of these chemicals have been linked to cancer, and others can cause damage to the nervous system. It's important to choose natural, organic oatmeal and add your own flavors using fresh fruit, nuts, and other natural ingredients.

Summing Up the Solution

When choosing a store-bought option, look for organic, simple ingredients on the label. The best solution to avoid the potential health risks associated with flavored oatmeal is to make your own using certified organic oats and flavoring and sweetening it with all-natural whole-food ingredients like fruit. This way, you can avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and additives. 

Adding good fats and protein, like nut butter and collagen powder, can also help balance the macros and make your oatmeal more filling and nutritious. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast that supports your overall health and well-being!

The Naughty List

• Quaker, Fruit & Cream Oatmeal
• Quaker Instant Oatmeal, Maple Brown Sugar
• Quaker, Instant Oatmeal, Apple & Cinnamon
• Great Value Fruit & Cream Variety Instant Oatmeal
• Kind, Gluten Free Oatmeal, Apple, Cinnamon & Almond
• Pebbles Fruity Instant Oatmeal
• Kodiak Protein-Packed Instant Oatmeal Maple & Brown Sugar
• Better Oats Revolution! Steel Cut Oats Maple & Brown Sugar Oatmeal
• Quaker Instant Oatmeal Cookies & Cream
• Quaker Instant Oatmeal Chocolate

The Good List

• Thrive Market, Organic Overnight Oats, Double Chocolate Berry
• Purely Elizabeth Superfood Oats Apple Cinnamon Pecan
• Purely Elizabeth Superfood Oats Mixed Berry
• Purely Elizabeth, Collagen Protein Oats Cup, Vanilla Pecan
• Nature's Path Organic Gluten-Free Brown Sugar Maple Instant Oatmeal
• Nature's Path, Organic Instant Oatmeal, Apple Cinnamon
• Seven Sundays, Wild & Free Muesli, Blueberry Chia Buckwheat
• Seven Sundays, Organic Farmers Market Muesli, Almond Date Currant

Conclusion

Flavored oatmeal may seem like a healthy breakfast option, but it can actually be quite dangerous. The use of artificial colors, non-organic oats, and artificial flavors can all pose a health risk. Choosing natural, organic oatmeal and adding your own flavors is the best option. By doing so, you can avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and enjoy a healthy, nutritious breakfast.

1. Whitehead, A., Beck, E. J., Tosh, S., & Wolever, T. M. (2014). Cholesterol-lowering effects of oat β-glucan: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 100(6), 1413-1421. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.114.086108
2. Tanaka T, Takasaki W, Endo Y, Fukuda S, Shirai T. Developmental toxicity of food azo dyes administered to mice during pregnant and lactation periods. II. Red No.40. Food Chem Toxicol. 2009 Nov;47(11):2918-22. doi: 10.1016/j.fct.2009.08.008. Epub 2009 Aug 15. PMID: 19686771.
3. Gillezeau C, van Gerwen M, Shaffer RM, et al. Glyphosate exposure in pregnancy and shortened gestational length: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Environ Health. 2019;18(1):23. Published 2019 Mar 8. doi:10.1186/s12940-019-0453-y
4. Di Renzo GC, Conry JA, Blake J, DeFrancesco MS, DeNicola N, Martin JN Jr, McCue KA, Richmond D, Shah A, Sutton P, Woodruff TJ, van der Poel SZ. International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics opinion on reproductive health impacts of exposure to toxic environmental chemicals. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2015 Nov;131(2):219