I am a volume eater. Me feeling satisfied eating one cookie (unless it’s the size of my head) is about as likely as me getting a suntan.  During this postpartum “wanna get my body back but know I need to eat healthy and plentifully in order to keep my strength (and milk) up yet I have no time or free hands to feed myself” time, food can be a tricky business.  I will admit this personal chef has had way too many protein bars for “meals” because anything else seemed like too much trouble. Then I’m hungry and cranky, which is not a good recipe for a happy mama and therefore, a happy baby.

I believe I’ve found the solution:  Oat bran!

It’s quick and easy to prepare, it’s a completely versatile ingredient, it’s healthy, it’s excellent for milk production, and most importantly, it gives me a big bowl of comfort for 150 calories.

Make you some oat bran today!

Oat Bran Basics

Serves One Hungry Mama (or PS, your babe would probably dig this, too!)

1/2 cup dry oat bran

1 1/4 cups water

pinch salt (do not skip this, just like pasta, all grains are bland bland bland on their own. Adding this salt will enhance the oatey goodness).

Put oat bran, water, and salt in a small pot over medium heat. Whisk frequently and bring to a boil, then cook for one minute. It will get thick, that’s how you’ll know it’s done.

Now the fun begins!

I always add cinnamon, almond milk and a few drops of liquid vanilla stevia to taste.  Then, I want some crunch.  Yesterday, I crumbled up a granola bar. I’ve also added cereal, fruit, dried fruit, cookies, yogurt, nuts, nut butter…with 8 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber per 1/2 cup serving, you will be doing your body a huge favor. Now go forth in fullness, mamas! xoxo