The Oatmeal Packet Scam

When I decided to try some plain organic oats in place of processed oatmeal, I had no idea that it would be so easy to make and that it would significantly contribute to weight loss.  Though the original reason for getting plain oatmeal was for its health benefits, I subsequently discovered that it actually tasted much better than the processed and packaged equivalent.  In fact, it tastes so good that I no longer have to add sugar or honey to my oatmeal.  I discovered this when I accidentally forgot to add sugar to the oatmeal and my kids ate it all without complaint.

So, in addition to being healthier, eating plain unprocessed oatmeal has wonderful weight loss properties since its filling, sugarless and does not have preservatives or artificial sweeteners which tend to contribute to weight gain.  The only draw back to to plain oats is that you must scoop instead of open a packet and you will also have to cook it 30 seconds longer in the microwave than the packet version.  Hardly seems worth paying more for a packet.

Quick Guide to buying and cooking plain oats:
1. First, go to the scoop section of your grocery store.  Wal-Mart stores may not have such a section.  Read the ingredients on the varieties of oats and get the one which says organic and which does not list any preservatives. None of the oats in this section should have chemicals added, but it doesn't hurt to check. Scoop the oats into the bag and tie.  (a little more effort than picking up a box)  Also, there is no need to get quick cooking.
2. When you get home, pour the oats in a container and add a 1/3 cup dry measuring cup to the oats.  This is the amount which cooks best in a regular size cereal bowl and is the closest to the amount you have in the packet variety.
3. When preparing oatmeal, get a microwave safe bowl, add a 1/3 cup scoop of oats and 2/3 cup of water.  Push the quick minute button on your microwave and cook.  After one minute, stir and cook for 20 seconds longer.  Stir again and cook for an additional 10 seconds.
4. Remove the bowl, stir and serve.  There is no need to add sugar, honey or any type of flavoring.  You will be pleasantly surprised how good it tastes.
5. If you are like me and tend to read the cooking instructions every time you make something, tape a sticky to the outside of the oatmeal container with the instructions. 1/3 cup scoop, 2/3 cup water, 1 minute-stir, 10 sec-stir, 5 sec-stir.

Sound easy enough?  That's what I thought.  I didn't even know you could cook regular oats in the microwave.  I realize now that the 30 seconds of my life which is saved by processed oats hardly warrants spending more money on oatmeal in a packet which only tastes good if you add a lot of sugar.  So by making regular oats, you are not only eating healthier by eliminating chemicals, dies and preservatives, you are also eating a quick filling breakfast which tastes great without adding to your waistline.