Is Porridge Healthy?

What is porridge?

Porridge is a food that has been eaten around the world for thousands of years, and continues to be a popular breakfast food or snack globally. Made from boiling starchy grains such as oats, porridge can be sweetened, and can be topped with fruits and nuts and flavoured with a variety of spices.

Does porridge have any nutritional value?

Oat porridge is a good source of protein and fibre, and studies have shown that it can potentially lower cholesterol levels when eaten every day. It is also a source of minerals such as magnesium, iron and zinc as well as B vitamins.

Is porridge healthy?

As a complex carbohydrate, porridge is a great breakfast for a healthy, balanced diet. This is because it releases energy slowly throughout the day, and it is eaten by many athletes for this reason. It is also filling which makes it a great food to start the day and tide you over until lunch. Of course, the nutritional profile of porridge will change depending on what you add to it — things like nut butter, sugar or syrups and chocolate will naturally increase the fat and sugar content, which is something to be aware of. 

Now craving a hearty bowl of the stuff? Check out our two recipes for creamy oats here.