Oatmeal Differences

Answer

Gram for gram they will all have pretty much the same macro nutrient profile. The main difference is in the amount of processing they each have, and how this translates into their digestibility:

• Steel cut oats: The least processed, the oat groats are cut into a couple of pieces with a steel blade (hence the name). Steel cut have the highest amount of fiber and the lowest glycemic index, at around 55.
• Rolled oats: More processed, they are steamed and then rolled to make the flakes we are all used to. As they are lightly cooked they are easier to digest hence increasing the glycemic index: it ranges from 60 to 70.
• Instant: Even more processed, they are further cooked and pressed before being dried. This makes for the highest glycemic index, often above 70. Be cautious as instant oats are often riddled with added sugars.

Source for glycemic indexes: https://glycemicindex.com/

Answer

There is basically none. Steel cut oats are the whole grain hulled and cut into pieces. Rolled oats (and derivates: quick oats, instant oats, etc) are just hulled oats that have been steamed and rolled and then cut into pieces of varying size. The only difference is your personal choice of texture

Answer

The major difference is instant oats may have a bit more sugar in to make them flavoured whereas your traditional oats are likely just the oats themselves.

The actual oats themselves are cut to different sizes which is one of the primary reasons instant oats are instant. They’re finely chopped. Traditional oats are thicker meaning they take slightly longer to cook.

Related Fasting Blogs