High-Fiber Oatmeal: Sun-Powered Taste & Nutrition!

A high-fiber diet is what keeps humans going...not to be gross. But it literally makes our digestion healthier by gently cleaning the intestines, adds bulk to our meals so that we don't eat quite as many calories, and helps our liver get rid of toxins. I've never been completely satisfied with a bowl of simple oats. I always need something extra to add protein and fat. Nuts are good, but sometimes the smooth texture of plain oats is what I crave.I've devised a simple recipe to add more fiber, more protein, and more minerals to oatmeal while retaining the smooth texture - and my son loves it! Little does he know how healthy it is. Oh, and this can be gluten- and dairy-free easily! Just use Bob's Red Mill certified gluten-free oats.By adding ground sunflower seeds to the oats, I'm adding a high quality protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and several B-complex vitamins. Sunflower seeds also contain a trace of fluorine, which helps build strong teeth. I store my raw, shelled sunflower seeds in the freezer until I need them.

High-Fiber Oatmeal with Ground Sunflower Seeds:

1 cup enriched rice milk1/2 cup oat bran or rolled oats ground in a spice grinder1/4 cup sunflower seeds ground in a spice grinder to a find powderpinch pink himalayan salt (you can use sea salt of course)1/2 teaspoon cinnamon1/4 cup organic raisins and chopped dried apricotsDirections:1. Heat the milk in a small pot over medium heat. When the milk starts to simmer, whisk in the oat bran or ground oats.2. Whisk in the ground sunflower seeds, salt, and cinnamon until smooth. Turn the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook for 5 minutes.3. Stir in the dried fruit and serve.