January is National Oatmeal Month. And while some might get excited at the thought of starting a chilly day with a piping hot bowl of oatmeal, others might need some more convincing.

Well, here it is. Oatmeal is not only rich in fibre, it’s also proven to lower bad cholesterol and helps to keep you fuller longer which is helpful for those looking to lose weight.

It’s also an excellent source of vitamin B complex, which is essential in keeping the nervous system working normally, and is rich in Vitamin E.

If that’s not enough reason to eat more oatmeal, here are some ideas for how to spice up your morning meal ...

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal

Ingredients

1/2 cup old-fashioned oats

1 tablespoon almond or peanut butter

1-2 tablespoons sweetened coconut flakes

1-2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips

Directions

Cook oatmeal as directed on the package (be sure to include a pinch of salt). Stir in almond butter, coconut flakes, and chocolate chips.

Or try adding a taste of fall:

Pumpkin Spiced Oatmeal

Ingredients

?1/3 cup canned pumpkin (or cooked pumpkin or sweet potato purée)

?3/4 cup milk of choice

?1 cup of oatmeal of your choice

?1/4 to 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

?1/2 tsp cinnamon

?1/8 tsp salt

?Sweetener (such as stevia, sugar, or even maple syrup)

Directions

Blend all ingredients together. The oatmeal will thicken up the longer you leave it, so eat soon after mixing.