Even nutritious, healthful foods like oatmeal can come with drawbacks, especially when consumed regularly in large quantities, Mezher notes. "For example, oatmeal is generally carbohydrate forward on its own and often found in instant or premade forms loaded with added sugars, artificial flavors, and ingredients," she says.
To that end, she recommends checking ingredient lists and nutrition-fact labels when shopping. Also, try to stick to the plain form of oatmeal you like best (rather than flavored varieties), then mix in your own add-ins at home.
It may also be worth making an effort to buy organic oats or oatmeal products certified as "glyphosate-free," Mezher says. "Unfortunately, conventional modern farming methods have made it common practice to use glyphosate (herbicide) to kill weeds, contaminating oats and oat products in the process," she explains, adding that exposure to glyphosate has been linked to negative health effects such as cancer and gut issues.
