National Oatmeal Muffin Day is celebrated on Dec.19 every year to appreciate the country's most popular snack.

Muffins have been part of people's diets for the past few centuries. The word muffin comes from the French word "moufflet," which is often used for bread and other soft foods that are baked.

Muffins were first made in Wales in the 10th and 11th centuries. The Welsh used yeast to cook muffins on a griddle. They were flat-shaped with a hollow inside.

American-style muffins, also known as quick bread muffins, first appeared around the 18th century. They were prepared in individual molds using baking powder instead of yeast.

There are different types of muffins available in the country today. Oatmeal muffins gained popularity as a healthy breakfast that can replace the regular bowl of oatmeal. Since oatmeal muffins are rich in nutrients and low in calories, they can also be eaten as a healthy mid-day snack.

This National Oatmeal Muffin Day, you can celebrate by making your favorite oatmeal muffins at home, sharing them with your friends and learning more about their health benefits.

oatmeal muffin
oatmeal muffin pixabay

Here are some of the health benefits of oatmeal muffins that might encourage you to try them: (Courtesy: The Joint, Days of The Year)

  • They are rich in anti-oxidants: Oatmeal is rich in antioxidants that can help in fighting off bad cells and illness-causing chemicals.
  • Oatmeal muffins are high in fiber: Oatmeal contains dietary fiber essential for maintaining a healthy digestive tract and can help prevent constipation.
  • Oatmeal muffins can help reduce blood pressure: Eating whole grains like oatmeal can help reduce blood pressure and inflammation in the body.
  • They can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer: Medics believe that a fiber-rich diet can help combat the chances of colorectal cancer. According to studies, for every 10 grams of whole grains (including oatmeal) consumed per day, there may be a 10% reduction in the risk of colorectal cancers.
  • Oatmeal muffins can help in weight loss: Oatmeal keeps you full for a longer period, which helps in reducing the calorie intake and in turn, can help in weight loss.