5 reasons oatmeal is the ultimate breakfast food

For those who aren't morning persons, it's quite difficult to start your engines at the beginning of the day. That's why it's important to pack up on a healthy, filling breakfast that keeps you satiated and energized to take on the day, or at least, keep you functioning up until lunch. If you're tired of the same old bacon and eggs or cereal, take a closer look at oatmeal and the various reasons why this should be your go-to breakfast food.

1. It keeps you full for a longer period of time. POPSugar reports that oatmeal is digested by the stomach at a slower pace, compared to breakfast cereals that contain added sugar and other artificial ingredients. The Huffington Post also reports that according to a 2014 study published in Nutrition Journal, participants who consumed oatmeal felt fuller for a longer period of time compared to their counterparts who consumed the same serving size of Honey Nut Cheerios. Oatmeal is dead serious about keeping you full, and science has proven it.

2. It's great for weight loss. Oatmeal is also a great alternative for people who are trying to opt for healthier food choices. POPSugar reports that according to a small study, those who consumed oatmeal daily for six weeks had a greater decrease in cholesterol level and waist size compared to those who ate the same amount of carbohydrates, but in the form of noodles. Even celebrity trainers Bob Harper and Gunnar Peterson agree that you can eat carbs, as long as it's in the morning.

Manhattan-based nutritionist and registered dietitian Shira Lenchewski told POPSugar, "[Carbs] are burned more efficiently in the morning than at night."

3. It's good for your sex drive. Men's Health reports that consuming oatmeal can naturally boost testosterone in the bloodstream, and that's important because this male hormone plays an important role in sex drive and orgasm strength in both men and women. The reason? L-arginine in oats is an amino acid that enhances nitric oxide's effects on reducing blood vessel stiffness, and is also used to treat erectile dysfunction.

4. It keeps your heart healthy. The Huffington Post reports that oatmeal contains lignans, a plant chemical that helps protect the heart against cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, the soluble fiber in oatmeal helps reduce the body's absorption of "bad" cholesterol that contributes to a higher risk for cardiovascular illnesses. Health also reports that oats are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and potassium. Opt for steel-cut oats and avoid flavored kinds, as they may contain added sugar.

5. It's so versatile, it can be mixed and matched with fruits, nuts, and other favorite additions—and it doesn't cost much. Generally, it's great to add fruits and nuts to your oatmeal to make it even more nutritious, but did you know that you can add vegetables too? Huffington Post suggests adding avocado and kale for a different kind of texture. You can even stretch your oatmeal consumption to snacks and make low-calorie healthy cookies to munch on throughout the day. What's best is that a serving of oatmeal costs only about 20 cents, so you can stay healthy without spending too much money.