Photo courtesy: Monica Matheny of The Yummy Life

Start your morning off great with this healthy and fresh, banana cocoa oatmeal. Did you ever think you would be eating oatmeal cold? It is refreshing for a hot summer morning and a great on-the-go breakfast or snack. Oatmeal contains high amounts of fiber and it is known that fiber decreases risk of high blood pressure, lowers high cholesterol and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to the Dairy Council of California. This month is also National Mental Health Month, making bananas the perfect fruit to eat while celebrating this holiday. Bananas produce dopamine, which is important to keep us alert and focused as it controls the brains reward and pleasure centers. Look for our informational blog later this week that will discuss more details on bananas and mental health.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of uncooked old fashioned rolled oats
• 1/3 cup skim milk
• 1/4 cup of low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 ½ tsp. chia seeds
• 1 tbsp. cocoa powder
• 1 tsp. honey (optional, can be replaced with any sweetener preferred)
• 1/4 cup diced ripe bananas or enough to fill jar

Instructions:

1. In a half pint (1 cup) add oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, cocoa powder and honey
2. Put lid on jar and shake until well combined
3. Add bananas and stir until mixed throughout
4. Refrigerate overnight or up to two days

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Image credit: Monica Matheny of The Yummy Life

Recipe source: The Yummy Life