With the popularity of low-carb diets, we've been taught to fear carbs, but this macronutrient is what our bodies need for energy. Remember that "carbs are the number one energy source our body uses. Approximately half of our calories should be coming from carbs," registered dietitian Carlie Saint-Laurent Beaucejour, MS, LDN, known as @mindfuleatingdietitian on Instagram told POPSUGAR in a previous interview. Oats are an excellent source of complex carbs (23 to 27 grams per serving), which means they offer slow-burning energy to our brain and body.
To increase the complex carbs in your overnight oats, add mashed beans (try this black bean brownie batter overnight oats recipe, mash in banana (which adds natural sweetness), or add pureed sweet potato or pumpkin.