Apple Pie Oatmeal

Fall isn’t fall unless we talk about apples am I right? This delicious Apple Pie Oatmeal is the perfect addition to your morning routine not only because it’s absolutely delicious, but also because it’s filled with gut health benefits. Join me today for a look at the benefits of probiotics and a sneak peak at this Apple Pie Oatmeal!

It’s been a while (insert 2015 when I made this Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal) since I cooked oats on the stovetop.

But, with the first rain of the season finally hitting San Diego whipping up a batch of Apple Pie Oatmeal felt necessary.

Truthfully, I’m not sure why I don’t eat oats more often.

Oats are a nutrient powerhouse (read: filled with fiber and prebiotics) and really beneficial when it comes to your gut health.

You may remember from back in the day when we chatted about our gut health here, but it’s been a few years and a lot of new research has emerged so its time we revisit this important topic once again. 

First off, a quick recap: 

Probiotics are those good for you bacteria that naturally reside in your body and are found in abundance in both functional foods and whole foods. Functional foods could be snack bars or other foods that have probiotics added during manufacturing, whereas whole foods such as yogurt, kefir and fermented foods naturally have probiotics present in the way they are made.

Prebiotics are the food for probiotics. Great food sources of prebiotic foods are oats (hello Apple Pie Oatmeal!), onions, garlic and bananas. 

While there’s not a recommended daily intake for probiotics as there is with vitamins and minerals, research continues to explore the range of benefits helpful bacteria can provide a host, ranging from:

• treating digestive disorders
• to the common cold
• to interacting with one’s gut-brain axis to affect mood

While it’s fascinating to see the variety of conditions probiotics may help to positively affect, MORE RESEARCH IS NEEDED in how, what, when and why they function the way they do!

For instance, there are many different strains of probiotics.  Since the strain in itself plays a major role in how it will function and what benefit it will provide each individual body, it’s best to speak with a qualified professional if you are looking to specifically target a disease state with probiotic use. 

But, with that said, 70%+ of your immune system is said to reside in your gut (aka, your microbiome). So if you’re looking to try and ward off the common cold or keep your body in its healthiest state, it’s a good idea IMHO to focus on eating a pre and probiotic rich diet alongside taking a supplement.

Now, here’s where the BIG question I get comes in:

What probiotic should I take?!

Truthfully, not all supplements are created equal and you really don’t just want to buy the cheapest one at the market. You need to do your homework and find out what specific strain of probiotic will benefit your specific condition. 

Many reputable brands will deliver live probiotics to help replenish good bacteria, and some will even offer prebiotics as fuel to boost probiotic activity to balance out a well-rounded gut!

Many supplements are also formulated to support healthy immune defenses and promote digestive health, including:

• bowel regularity 
• and the reduction of occasional gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation*. 
  • *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

To help set you (and your gut) up for success, I highly recommend you speak to a healthcare practitioner to help identify which strain and brand of probiotic is best for you.

Okay okay, no more waiting!

Here’s the Apple Pie Oatmeal recipe to launch your gut health today! Or, if you’re more into the pumpkin trend, enjoy the Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal here. Either way, enjoy!

Connect with me over on Instagram and use the #ShawKitchen so I can re-share your creations, too!