Oatmeal is a beloved breakfast staple across America, celebrated for its whole grain goodness, high fiber content, and low levels of sugar and sodium. However, not all oatmeals are created equal, particularly when it comes to the flavored instant varieties that line supermarket shelves.

Hidden Sugars and Sodium in Flavored Oatmeals

While they may sound tempting, flavored instant oatmeals such as strawberries and cream or maple brown sugar often come loaded with added sugars and sodium, diminishing the health benefits of oatmeal. Nutrition experts advise paying close attention to the fiber, sodium, and sugar content when selecting instant oatmeal.

Criteria for Healthier Choices

For a healthier breakfast option, choose instant oatmeals with at least 3 grams of fiber per serving and less than 10 grams of added sugar. Additionally, aim for options with less than 200 milligrams of sodium per serving to maintain a balanced diet.

Unhealthy [TAG4] to Leave Behind

As you navigate the grocery aisles, consider avoiding these 10 instant oatmeals that fail to meet health standards due to high sugar and sodium content.

Quaker Real Medleys Apple Walnut Oatmeal Cup

Despite containing nutritious ingredients like oats, apples, and walnuts, this oatmeal cup is packed with 17 grams of added sugar, making it more dessert than breakfast.

Nature's Path Organic Instant Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

This oatmeal's health claims fall short, as it contains a significant amount of added sugars, contributing to potential health risks including obesity and heart disease.

Share Good Foods Blueberry Cobbler Oatmeal

Another seemingly healthy option that's as sugary as dessert, with added sugars and sodium that exceed daily recommended intakes.

Quaker Raisins & Spice Instant Oats

With 14 grams of sugar and only 3 grams of fiber, this option lacks the necessary nutrients to start your day right.

Good & Gather Organic Maple Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal

While organic, this oatmeal's high sugar content, with sugar as the second most abundant ingredient, overshadows its potential health benefits.

O Organics Instant Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal

This organic option still suffers from high added sugar content, providing up to half of the daily recommended sugar intake in just one serving.

Signature Select Brown Sugar Oatmeal

High in both sugar and sodium, this oatmeal also contains "natural flavors" that may not be as natural as they seem.

Great Value Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal

This affordable option comes with a cost to your health, offering high levels of sodium and sugar that detract from oatmeal's nutritional benefits.

Better Oats Steel Cut Instant Oatmeal, Maple & Brown Sugar

Despite the "steel cut" label, this oatmeal is high in added sugars, undermining its nutritional value.

McCann's Vanilla Honey Steel Cut Irish Oatmeal

Offering convenience but at a nutritional cost, this oatmeal cup is high in added sugar, making it a less healthy choice.

When choosing instant oatmeal, it's essential to read labels carefully to ensure that you're selecting options that contribute to a healthy diet. Opt for oatmeals with minimal added sugars and sodium to enjoy the full benefits of this nutritious grain.