President Diane Pimentel 772-7514 dpimentel@earthlink.net
VP Patti Dellabruna 765-2363
Secretary Annette Allsup (369) 208-8029 jonanncan97@comcast.net
Treasurer Nancy Jamarck 774-6168 ncjam@sbcglobal.net
Activities Dir. Libby Bianchi (253) 509-4842 eliz.bianchi@gmail.com
Observer Delv Nancy Jamarck 774-6168 ncjam@sbcglobal.net
Sunshine rpt Ellen Reinhold (415) 419-7267 ellenreinhold@icloud.com
GSMOL Rep Diane Pimentel 772-7514 dpimentel@earthlink.net
Neighborhd Watch Carole O’Brien 981-3589
Hospitality Nancy Jamarck 774-6168 ncjam@sbcglobal.net
Library Dennis Vollmer
Observer Editor Diane Hawley 971-5339 Mobile or 981-7079 Home
Email: jumbaco56@gmail.com
Submissions are due to Diane by the 5th of the monthprior.
The current month’s issue can also be accessed electronically at https://mobilehomeparkmagazines.com/editorial
President’s Message:
Happy Easter! Spring is in its full glory and as I turned my drip system on, I discovered the need for repairs. So, I’m hand watering my plants for the immediate time being, until I make a trip down to the hardware store for drip system supplies. The weeds are easy to pull after it rains, but not so much when the ground starts to dry-out, but I love planting flowers, moving pots around, harvesting the lemons from my tree and sharing them with neighbors.
Speaking of that, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting several new neighbors recently. If you are a new to our park since last July, please give me a call so I can get your contact information and make sure your information is in the PEHA Phone Directory, which will be published in the September Observer. That way, we won’t take a chance of missing you when we canvass the neighborhood. Each year we need to contact everyone to verify their information and get permission to be included in the directory. So, when the September issue comes out, be sure to hold on to it.
As was mentioned in our March issue, our Observer Editor will be resigning after the September issue is delivered to the publisher by August 12th. If you are interested in the position, please contact me as soon as possible. Diane Hawley will be happy to help train her replacement, but if you have publishing, editorial, or graphic arts experience it would make an easy transition. If you have none of these but have strong computer skills and are willing to learn, that too is possible, but we would need to know sooner than later. We are a volunteer organization, so your payment is the satisfaction of learning something new and contributing to your community in a way that helps our residents stay informed.
Before closing, I am happy to report the St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Dance not only met but exceeded the minimum required paid attendees by at least 25%. Hopefully, we will have a report and pictures from the event in next month’s issue. Next, we will be hosting a Breakfast on May 2nd in the clubhouse from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Please RSVP with payment of $5 ea. by April 27th . Also, we will be having our annual 4th of July BBQ & Potluck Celebration, so SAVE THE DATE & watch for more information on the bulletin boards and in the next issue.
Yours Truly,
Diane Pimentel, PEHA President 707-772-7514
PEHA COMMUNITY BREAKFAST
Saturday, MAY 2nd
Clubhouse Doors open at 10 a.m. for coffee, Juice & Socializing
Breakfast Served 10:15- 10:45
Cost $5 per person
Menu and Sigh-up Sheet will be posted by April 2nd
Weekly Activity Reports/Updates from Coordinators:
Group Pool Exercise – Jeanne Williams reported that the heater has been fixed and the pool is ready to use.
Pinochle Mondays 12 – 4: Patti Dellabruna reported that everyone is welcome, even if you don't know how to play. Regular play is $1. On the last Monday of each month the cost is $5.
Yoga Tuesday & Friday 10:00 – 11:30: Stefanie Stone reported that she has been teaching a combination of yoga, Pilates, stretching and balance for about 3 years now. No experience is necessary. Please contact Stefanie if you would like to join the class.
Games Thursday & Friday 1 – 3: Dennis Vollmer / Luise Pommermayer. Some of the games they play are Rumikube and Mexican Train. You can also bring any game you would like to play.
Pickleball Tuesday & Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings – Libby reported meeting times have changed so contact her if you want to know when they meet. There are pickle ball paddles and balls in a container on the tennis court that all are welcome to use, so you don't even need to bring any gear.
Treasurer’s Report: Nancy Jamarck – Beginning Balance $2,152.57 No Checks, No Deposits. Petty Cash $39.18, Ending Balance: $2,191.75
Sunshine Report:
2/15 Get Well to Roberta Lupton
2/20 Get Well to Joyce Gaspar
2/25 Sympathy to Carol George on the death of her brother
3/05/26 PEHA General Meeting-Minutes
Petaluma Estates Homeowner's Association
Call to order: 7:00 PM Pledge of Allegiance: Led by Dennis Volmer
Welcome New Resident: Gordon McBurney
In Attendance: Martin Larson, Diane Pimentel, Patti Delabruna, Rhonda Hobbs, Roberta Lupton, Libby Bianchi, Luise Pommermayer, Ellen Reinhold, Leland Montell, Phillip Willcher, Carol Frankowiak, Mark Agnello, Pat West, Michael West, Nickola Frye, June Hudnall, Jean Williams, Lucy Childs, Dennis Vollmer, Arlyn Serber, Annette Allsup, Nancy Jamarck, Bruce Grant, Mike Smith, AnneMarie McCaffrey-Bledsoe, Gordon McBurney, Muriel Truett, David Donaldson, Arcelia Sandoval, Lisa Davis
Speaker: Nickola Frye lives in our park and is very involved in citywide and countywide activities that benefit us all.
She spoke about the organization “Rebuilding Together Petaluma” and how they help seniors, veterans and individuals who are disabled. They have a number of programs such as Critical Repair, Safe at Home, The Skilled Project, ReLeaf and Momentum, and Safe Streets. Services for these programs include critical health and safety issues, home repairs, accessibility and modernization, extermination of pests, converting stairwells to ramps, installing walk-in showers and grab bars, replacing hot water heaters, eliminating tripping hazards, litter and graffiti removal, and much, much more. For mobile homeowners, this includes repairs needed to resolve a 7-day notice. There is an application that is available on their website at www.RTPetaluma.org for qualifying individuals that make under $77,500 per year for one person or $88,600 per year for a two-person household. They also require documentation of earnings.
Nickola also wanted us to know that on Saturday, April 4th, there will be 8-10 projects tackled in one day by 100 Rebuilding volunteers spread out over the city. She also stated that they replace smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. She has read some bad things about one version of the Kidde carbon monoxide detector that may only sound an alarm at 70 units rather than at the 40 units that can be harmful. She stressed how important it is to check your detectors monthly.
Another program Nickola told us about is a Citizens Committee that is monitoring the corridor from Corona to Washington. The general plan is to encourage businesses at our end of the corridor. We have no grocery stores and hardly any services. Transportation and traffic are also huge issues. There will be displays at the Lucchesi Community Center on Saturday, March 21st
Speaker: Leland Montell is the American Red Cross Program Manager for Marin and Sonoma counties in charge of over 200 volunteers. He is spearheading a free smoke detector project in our mobile home park. He would like to get a minimum of 30 sign-ups. Volunteers will check your smoke alarm in your home and replace it as needed. The replacement models will be good for 10 years and will not need batteries. Volunteers will bring ladders and will have other equipment available as needed. Leland said that all smoke detectors need a date printed on them. The date for the inspections/replacement will be Saturday April 18th starting at 10:00 AM. The courtesy call will take app. 20 – 30 minutes. All homes should have a smoke alarm located on the ceiling outside of each bedroom and one in the main hallway.
Treasurer’s Report: Nancy Jamarck
Beginning Balance $2,152.57 No Checks, No Deposits. Petty Cash $39.18, Ending Balance: $2,191.75
Secretary’s Report for the March: Minutes will be printed in the April Observer. Please let Annette Allsup know if there are any additions or corrections.
Committee Reports
Activities: Libby Bianchi Coordinator
• St. Patrick's Dinner/Dance with the Good ol' Boys (60's music) on 3/14. Payment is due by Monday 3/9.
• ZINGO: 3rd Thursday of each month. Cards are on sale from 6:00 – 6:30 SHARP
• Pickle Ball: Tue and Thu-4:00, Sat. 9:00 or 10:00.
• Spring Breakfast: May 2nd details TBA
• 4th of July BBQ. Cost is $5 with potluck item. Hamburgers, hotdogs, buns and condiments will be provided.
• Possible Movie Night
If you have ideas for activities, please contact Libby
Recent Activities: Nancy reported that at the last Brown Bag Luncheon was on 2/14 and 40 people attended.
Sunshine: Ellen Reinhold reported on the cards she sent out for December, January & February. Please, please, please contact her if you know of someone in our park who is ill, has passed away, or if you know of someone who is in need of comfort.
Library: Dennis Vollmer reported that when the new flooring was installed in the clubhouse, he had no input about how the shelves were put back in. Also, when books are donated, he may give them to Goodwill, especially if we already have that book or it is about a topic no one would be interested in.
GSMOL: Rhonda Hobbs reported that The Budget Trailer Proposal is a disaster and we need phone calls and emails to get it stopped before it becomes a bill. It is an abuse of power. The proposal is to round up all fees in mobile home parks. For example, if your water usage is $16.02, you would be charged $17 for your water usage. If you would like to drive to the Sacramento capital on 3/11 to help defeat this proposal, please contact Rhonda. The strategy of seniors showing up in Sacramento has worked well in the past to defeat bills.
Hospitality: Position is unfilled. This person would greet any newcomers in the park and would let them know some of the ins and outs of our park. If you are interested, call Nancy Jamarck and she can explain the duties involved.
President's Report: Diane Pimentel
• The pool heater has been fixed and is in use again.
• It seems that overall, women meet more often to socialize than men in the park. In the past, the men used to host breakfast on a monthly basis. Maybe we can re-create something like that again.
• As mobile home residents we can legally have a companion living with us. Management cannot charge us for that person.
• Alan told us that the city bought the land near the perimeter fence. We want a better barrier, but we don't have the ability to repair it. Only the city can do that.
Old Business: None
Minutes cont...
New Business:
1. Lisa Davis reported that her cell phone has been getting terrible reception lately. She wants to investigate Crowdsourcing, which would be a way to get cheaper, better cell reception.
2. One of our residents asked if we had any ideas to help a senior that he knows who has very little money and would be homeless if not for staying with friends. Diane Pimentel suggested they call the Council on Aging for help.
Next Board Meeting, June 3rd OPEN TO ALL, especially if you have an item you’d like to discuss at the next day’s General meeting, so we can add you and the time needed to the agenda.
Next General Meeting: June 4th, Social 6:30 PM, Meeting begins 7:00
Meeting Adjourned: 8:22 PM
Butter & Egg Days Parade & Festival on Saturday, April 18th!
Spring Breakfast
Saturday, MAY 2nd
Clubhouse doors open at 10 a.m. for coffee, juice & socializing
Breakfast served 10:15- 10:45
Cost $5 per person
Menu and Sign-up Sheet will be posted by April 2nd
RSVP with payment is required by Monday April 27th
Our GSMOL Chapter is working in conjunction with the Legislative Action Team is working on your behalf, and here is a sample of what went into effect this January.
We hope you will become a member of our Petaluma Estates GSMOLChaper #0585, if you aren't already a member. Contact Diane Pimentel 707-772-7514
California mobile home regulations every tenant and public agency should know.
A trio of newly enacted statutes is reshaping the regulatory landscape for mobilehome parks across California, expanding tenant protections, modernizing notice requirements and imposing new disaster-response obligations that directly affect local governments and public agencies.
Assembly Bill 391
Assembly Bill 391 (Michelle Rodriguez, D-Ontario) amends Section 798.14 of the Civil Code to allow mobilehome park management to provide required notices to homeowners and residents electronically with affirmative written consent. This includes annual notices required by the Mobilehome Residency Law that must be delivered prior to Feb. 1.
Homeowners and residents may revoke their consent at any time, without any fee, charge, penalty or impact on their tenancy. Management must notify homeowners and residents of their right to revoke electronic notice consent.
Senate Bill 610
Senate Bill 610 (Sasha Renée Pérez, D-Pasadena) addresses disaster assistance for tenants, mobilehome parks and mortgages. This legislation requires public agencies to make habitability determinations and coordinate with state financial regulators in disaster response situations. The bill imposes a duty on landlords to remediate disaster damage within a reasonable time according to specified cleaning protocols.
In addition, this bill requires the landlord to return to the tenant any advance rental payments made by the tenant when the rental agreement is terminated due to damage or destruction of the property. It also requires management of a mobilehome park to return to the homeowner any advance rental payments made by the homeowner when the mobilehome tenancy is terminated due to damage or the destruction of the mobilehome park or any space as a result of a disaster. The bill discharges the tenant's or homeowner's obligation to pay rent during any period during which a tenant or homeowner is unable to occupy their rental unit due to a mandatory evacuation order pursuant to a disaster, as provided.
Assembly Bill 806
Assembly Bill 806 (Damon Connolly, D-San Rafael), amends California's Mobilehome Residency Law to protect residents' rights to install and use cooling systems in their mobilehomes. The law voids any rental agreement provisions or restrictions that prohibit cooling system installation, upgrade, replacement or use. It is unlawful for park management to restrict these activities or terminate tenancies based on cooling system usage.
Entities that willfully violate these provisions face liability for actual damages plus civil penalties up to $2,000 per violation. The law applies to all mobilehome parks, subdivisions, cooperatives, condominiums for mobilehomes and resident-owned mobilehome parks throughout California. Public agencies may receive complaints regarding violations and should be prepared to refer residents to appropriate enforcement mechanisms, as these Civil Code provisions are enforced through the courts rather than by administrative agencies.
Punch, the baby monkey shunned by his troop, finally finds acceptance.
The Macaque became an internet sensation after clips of him with his favorite stuffed toy at a zoo in Japan gained millions of views online. The baby monkey that was abandoned by his mother and troop at a zoo in Japan and is finally being accepted by his peers.
Punch, a seven-month-old macaque, was given an Ikea Djungelskog soft toy by zookeepers after he was shunned by other animals and was seen rolling around and taking comfort in the stuffed orangutan. He has now been spotted on the back of another macaque in their playground at the Ichikawa City Zoo.
“It was good to see him grow, and I’m reassured,” said Sanae Izumi, 61, from Osaka, who came to the zoo because she was worried about the monkey. “He is adorable.” Other visitors have posted social media clips of Punch sitting with adults and being groomed or hugged.
Kosuke Kano, a 24-year-old zookeeper, said: “Helping Punch learn the rules of monkey society and being accepted as a member is our most important task.”
Punch had previously been dragged and chased by elders inside the enclosure. Video clips showed him wandering alone with the toy and clutching it tightly while being harassed.
Alison Behie, a primatology expert at the Australian National University, said Punch’s situation was unusual but could occur under certain conditions. Age, health and inexperience were possible factors.
“In Punch’s case, their mother was a first-time mother, indicating inexperience,” Behie said. “Zookeepers also suggest Punch was born during a heatwave, which would be a high-stress environment.
“In environments where survival is threatened from outside stress, mothers may prioritize their own health and future reproduction rather than continue to care for an infant whose health may be compromised by those environmental conditions.”
Punch became so popular after images of him and his toy appeared online last month that the zoo had to limit viewing to ten minutes to reduce stress for the more than 50 other monkeys. It also set rules to ensure visitors were quiet.
Zoo officials have been encouraged by signs that Punch is spending far less time with his cuddly companion. Shigekazu Mizushina, the zoo’s director, said: “When he grows out of the plush toy that encourages his independence, and that’s what we are hoping for.”
Although Punch still sleeps with his toy every night, Mizushina said zookeepers hoped they would soon see him sleeping huddled up with other monkeys.
The annual Petaluma Downtown Sidewalk Sale will take place Thursday, July 30 - Sunday, August 2, 2026.
Independent stores and restaurants are a vital part of the special character of Downtown Petaluma. The Sidewalk Sale is a perfect opportunity to do your part in keeping Petaluma retail alive and take home some great items at a fraction of the cost!
Join us for a stroll, grab a coffee, lunch, and enjoy a fun shopping experience at the Downtown Summer Sidewalk Sale! Visit petalumadowntown.com for a list of participating merchants.
LumaGo is Petaluma’s FREE on-demand shuttle. Leave your car at home and take LumaGo to get to your favorite restaurants and shops in Downtown! Enjoy the convenience of traveling easily without any cost or worry, while also reducing your carbon footprint.
Grandma’s quick and easy brown sugar ham steak
Start with a ham steak and cook it in a skillet over medium heat, about 3 –5 minutes per side, just until warmed through and lightly caramelized. Remove the ham and set it aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add 5 tablespoons butter. Once melted, stir in 4 tablespoons brown sugar and let it melt into a smooth, glossy sauce.
Add the ham back to the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping and spooning the sauce over the top so it’s fully coated and sticky, not burnt. The sugar should bubble gently, not aggressively.
Serve immediately and enjoy Grandma’s quick and easy brown sugar ham steak for the win.
Our Story
After working in many notable Bay Area restaurants, including Chez Panisse and the Village Pub, Joel Baecker and Naomi Crawford moved to Petaluma in 2006 to start Pizza Politana and raise their two children, Olive and Burton. In 2017 they opened Lunchette with the mission of zero waste, paying living wages, while providing delicious grab and go food with products from small local farmers. Lunchette is committed to promoting regenerative agriculture by being members of Zero FoodPrint and buying meats and cheeses from Stemple Creek Ranch and Toluma Farms.
We are committed to making the best quality food from the highest caliber ingredients. Good food always looks AND tastes great!
BEHIND THE BAGEL
We strive to make the highest quality bagels using traditional bagel-making techniques and the best ingredients. Our bagels are made with fresh flour and whole grains and fermented with a sourdough starter. We use local and organic produce, dairy, and grains.
Our stone flour mill, crafted by New American Stone Mills in Vermont, is more than a tool it’s a tribute to a timehonored tradition that cherishes every grain of wheat. Using a gentle stone milling process, we ensure that the wheat is ground slowly, maintaining its full spectrum of vitamins and minerals, reviving a practice where flour was always fresh, wholesome, and inherently flavorful.
Our Story
In 2017, the seeds of The Bagel Mill were sown as Red Dog Baking Co. We began our journey by offering whole grain baked goods, milled and made by us, at local farmer's markets. Quickly, our bagels ascended to stardom, becoming a beloved favorite among our customers.
This sparked a dream: a bagel shop right here in Petaluma. Recognizing our newfound focus and the community's love for our bagels, we adopted a new name that truly reflected our specialty. Thus, The Bagel Mill was born.
Owned by Glenda Dougherty Manning, a Sebastopol, California native, The Bagel Mill is a culmination of experiences and passion. After moving to New York City to attend New York University, Glenda discovered a deep love for authentic, boiled New York bagels. Her culinary journey has spanned various bakeries and restaurants in NYC and San Francisco, infusing The Bagel Mill with a blend of tradition and innovation.
At The Bagel Mill, Glenda and our passionate team strive to bring you not just a bagel, but a handcrafted experience.
212 Western Avenue Petaluma, CA 94952
info@thebagelmill.com (707) 981-8010
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
Rack of Lamb Persillade Barefoot Contessa
3 small or 2 large racks of lamb, frenched
Good olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cups loosely packed fresh parsley leaves
1 tablespoon chopped garlic cloves (3 cloves)
1 cup fresh white bread crumbs
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest (2 lemons)
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Place the racks in a roasting pan, fat side up. Rub the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with the salt and pepper. Roast the lamb for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the parsley and garlic in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade and process until they're both finely minced. Add the bread crumbs and lemon zest and process for a second until combined.
Take the lamb out of the oven and quickly press the parsley mixture on top of the meat. Drizzle with the melted butter and return immediately to the oven and roast for another 15 minutes.
Take the lamb out of the oven and cover with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for 15 minutes, cut in double chops, and serve.
Roasted Asparagus with Lemon, Butter, and Parmesan
• 2 lbs asparagus, or about 2 bunches
• 1 lemon, (half juiced and half sliced into rings)
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pats
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sea salt, or added to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground,, or added to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese, or to taste
Rinse 2 bunches of asparagus and break off the ends by holding the base end and snapping it wherever it snaps.
Place asparagus in a large rimmed baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roll asparagus lightly to coat in oil and seasonings.
Squeeze 1/2 of a lemon evenly over the asparagus. Line the top third of the asparagus with lemon slices from the second half of your lemon. Thinly slice 4 tbsp of butter and line the center of the asparagus with butter.
Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes or until asparagus is tender. Remove asparagus from the oven and set oven to Broil.
Sprinkle the center of the asparagus with Parmesan cheese then return to the center of the oven and broil 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden.
9 Things You Should Never (Ever) Say to a Guest Even If You Mean Well Even good intentions can lead to awkward moments.
By Louise Parks-for Martha Stewart-Published
on October 17, 2025
Hosting rule number one: choose your words wisely. Sometimes, clumsy sentiments can slip out of even the most well-meaning lips. To find out the things you should never (ever) say to a guest even if you mean well we turned to etiquette experts.
Read on to prepare yourself for your next gathering, because even good intentions can lead to some awkward moments. And remember, hosting with awareness isn’t about being flawless, it’s about being thoughtful so just do your best. Jo Hayes, world-leading etiquette expert, lifestyle consultant, and founder of Etiquette Expert
Nick Leighton, co-host of Were You Raised by Wolves podcast Meagan W. Shepherd, MD, lifestyle expert and founder of The Allergy Aesthetic
"You Finally Made it!"
If a guest is arriving late, chances are they are already feeling pretty lousy about it. Emphasizing their lateness is not a way to make them feel welcome. "'You finally made it!' can sound playful, but feel rude," says lifestyle expert Meagan W. Shepherd. "It’s usually not personal, and life happens." Opt for empathy in this moment by showing your appreciation for their arrival. A simple greeting like, "I’m so glad you’re here! Come on in!" or "Welcome! We’ve been looking forward to seeing you!" can instantly put a guest at ease.
"Sorry for the Mess!"
As tempted as you might be to say something self-deprecating about the state of your home especially if your visitor has arrived on short notice and you are feeling self-conscious—comments like these put your guests in an awkward position. "Self-deprecating comments can make guests uncomfortable, as they’ll often feel obligated to offer reassurances," notes Leighton. Similarly, if your guest happens to compliment your home, pause before waving it off with a comment like, "Oh, it’s such a mess," advises Shepherd. "A simple thank you goes much further." Keep the focus on warmth instead of flaws.
"Oh, I Already Have This."
Upon receiving a hosting gift, never (ever!) make a negative comment about it. A gift is your guest’s way of showing thoughtfulness, so receive it graciously and show the same kind of consideration in return.
"Have You Lost/Gained Weight?"
It is always prudent to keep observations about weight changes to yourself. Even “You look great!” may not land as the compliment you've intended. “People can lose or gain weight for lots of reasons, and drawing attention to it can hit a nerve,” notes Shepherd. Instead, simply say, “It’s so good to see you. You look happy.” That one never backfires, says Shepherd. "Who Are You?"
If one of your guests brings along someone unfamiliar, resist the urge to be blunt as this could create an awkward situation. "If a guest brings a plus-one, it’s fair to want to get to know them," says Leighton. "But a question like, 'Who are you?' isn’t the way to go."
Rather than put this individual on the spot, ask a more gentle and leading question like, "So, how do you know so-and-so?" This will show your new guest that you are interested in knowing them.
What Happens When You Eat Oatmeal
Here's what consuming oatmeal daily can do for your body.
Better Heart Health
Oats are a great source of fiber, specifically beta-glucan, says Samantha Snashall, RDN, LD, registered dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. "This type of fiber has been shown to improve your total cholesterol as well as your LDL or "bad" cholesterol," she says. It works by binding with bile acids in your gastrointestinal system, ultimately affecting fat absorption and cholesterol levels. This can help reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke, according to Snashall.
Improved Digestion
The soluble fiber in oats will also support your daily digestion. When soluble fiber mixes with liquids in our gastrointestinal system, they create a viscous gel-like substance, which softens stool, says Snashall. Additionally, beta-glucan is considered a prebiotic, "which is essentially food for probiotics or the good bacteria in our gut," Snashall says. This promotes a healthy gut microbiome, thereby helping to reduce the risk of colon cancer, constipation, and other GI issues.
Enhanced Satiety
When oatmeal is part of your daily rotation, you'll feel more satisfied overall. "Oatmeal promotes satiety, or the feeling of fullness due to its content of beta-glucan," says Nicole Roach, RD, CDN, CDCES, registered dietitian at Northwell's Lenox Hill Hospital. This heightened satiety can reduce hunger pangs and cravings, helping you feel more energized throughout the day.
Better Blood Sugar Control
As beta-glucan gels in the gut, it also slows down the absorption of glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream, according to Snashall. This creates a gradual increase in blood sugar, which lessens the amount of insulin your body needs to help regulate it. (Insulin, by the way, is a hormone that helps your cells take up glucose from the blood.) Over time, this effect can reduce the risk of high blood sugar and type 2 diabetes.
Is It OK to Eat Oatmeal Every Day?
According to Snashall, it's safe to consume oatmeal daily. The exception is if you're on a low-fiber or low-residue diet to manage a digestive condition. In this case, you may need to avoid oatmeal completely, according to the experts at the University of Virginia Health System. Otherwise, oatmeal can be enjoyed every day, so long as you're mindful of sugary add-ins.
How Much Oatmeal Should You Eat?
In general, the ideal daily intake of oatmeal is one serving, or ½ cup, according to Snashall. This can help you achieve the recommended intake of three to six servings of whole grains per day.
But again, the "best" amount varies by person. For instance, if you're following a gluten-free diet, you may or may not be able to tolerate a certain amount of oatmeal, according to Roach. A healthcare provider, like a registered dietitian or primary care doctor, can suggest the best daily amount for your situation.
Things to Consider
When buying oatmeal, know that the store-bought versions can vary in terms of nutrition. For example, pre-flavored instant oatmeal is often high in added sugars. Instant oatmeal is also more processed than the whole variety, so it may contain less fiber. With that in mind, choose plain rolled or steel cut oats whenever possible, then add your own ingredients for flavor. Don't be afraid to get creative! "When making oatmeal ourselves at home, we are in the driver's seat and can make [it] as healthy or as indulgent as we wish," says Roach.
Need ideas? "Add some fresh or frozen fruit to help naturally sweeten [oatmeal]," says Snashall. She also enjoys pairing oatmeal with a protein source to ensure fullness and satisfaction. Examples include peanut and almond butter (which also offer healthy fats), yogurt (which contains probiotics), and eggs for savory versions.
It's also worth accounting for the liquid you use to prepare oatmeal, as this can affect the calorie content, according to Roach. For example, oatmeal prepared with water or low-fat milk will have fewer calories than a batch prepared with whole milk. In this scenario, the best option depends on your health goals (i.e., losing, managing, or gaining weight).
Love oatmeal, but not always in the mood for something sweet at breakfast? It's time to try savory oatmeal. This tasty trend has given one of the healthiest and most nourishing breakfasts a new lease on life. While we are as keen on a good drizzle of maple syrup as anyone else, sometimes savory elements, such as fried eggs, crisp salty bacon, and melty cheese, are exactly what is needed to get the morning started right.
The Right Way to Make Savory Oatmeal
When making a batch of stovetop oatmeal, the technique remains the same whether you’re leaning toward sweet or savory. It’s all about the flavor.
How to Cook
The type of liquid you use to cook savory oatmeal is up to you. If you stick to the classics, something like water or your favorite milk will be just fine. If you really want to lean into an umami flavor profile, opt for something like homemade chicken stock or bone broth it will add a rich depth of flavor to the oats.
What to Add
Savory oatmeal is really all about the toppings, but just like you might stir sugar and spices into sweet oatmeal, there are a few great ingredients to add to the savory version.
Cheese: Many different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Gouda, and more, will melt beautifully into the piping hot pot of oatmeal, giving it an instant savory boost. Save some for topping, too! Cottage cheese or ricotta are great creamy cheeses that can also add a moderate boost of protein to your morning bowl.
Spices: Depending on the flavor profile you’re going for, your spice cabinet can do a lot of the work here. Take a look at the favorites you use in your everyday cooking, or try incorporating a spice mix like za’atar, ranch seasoning, or ras el hanout (which has a subtly sweet aroma that can enhance many savory elements).
Fresh herbs: Herbs are an easy way to add some fresh flavor. Choose the ones you use in your regular cooking. Heartier herbs, like sage or rosemary, can be added at the beginning of cooking the oats, while more tender herbs like parsley or cilantro should be stirred in just before serving.
Amp up the umami: Try adding flavor boosters, such as miso, umeboshi paste, Worcestershire sauce, or nutritional yeast, to amp up the umami in your savory oatmeal. Start small, a little goes a long way.
Puzzles and Word Games you
