The good ol’ peanut butter and jelly sandwich might bring cherished childhood memories to the forefront.
Maybe you remember your mom packing it for your school lunch each day. Or perhaps you recall running in from a morning outside with friends and being met with this delightful sandwich as a filling and yummy lunch.
Well, it’s time to relive those memories but in a new way. And that nostalgia you’re feeling when thinking about those memories is actually proven to be good for your mental health! So, let’s harness all that good stuff and re-discover the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich with this PB&J overnight oats recipe.
I’m a huge fan of overnight oats, mostly because they take little time but are packed with loads of goodness (and also taste great!). Basically, as the ultimate lazy gal in the kitchen, these make life easy, especially when I know I’m going to have a busy morning.
So, ready to try them out? Keep reading!
Let’s start with the potential nostalgic aspect.
Research shows that nostalgia can be great for your mental well-being when served up in healthy doses. It can:
However, while nostalgia is generally considered a positive emotion, excessive or chronic nostalgia may not always be the best. Some individuals might use nostalgia to avoid dealing with present challenges or to escape from reality, which could potentially hinder personal growth and well-being.
Yet, overall, research suggests that moderate and occasional engagement with nostalgia can contribute positively to mental well-being, particularly in terms of enhancing mood, self-esteem, social connectedness, and psychological resilience.
Thus, engaging in a bit of nostalgia when having these overnight oats might do your mental health tons of good.
But that’s not all…
The ingredients in this recipe also pack a powerful punch. Here are a few ways this recipe can help improve your mental wellness on a physiological level.
Oats, the star of this recipe, contain complex carbohydrates that provide a steady release of energy, helping to stabilize mood and reduce irritability.
They are also rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Thanks to the gut-brain axis, this also benefits mood and brain health.
On top of this, oats also contain various vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, zinc, and iron, which are essential for proper brain function and mental well-being.
Low in calories and sugar, unsweetened almond milk can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent mood swings.
It further contains healthy fats that support brain health and cognitive function.
Chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain development, function, and mental health. Omega-3s have been linked to reduced risk of depression and improved cognitive performance.
These seeds further contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, which regulates mood, sleep, and appetite. Along with oats, this ingredient is also rich in fiber, which can help you feel full and improve overall digestive and mental health through that gut-brain connection.
Related Article: Coping With Anxiety? Try These Overnight Oats for an Easy & Stress-Free Morning
A staple in Canadian food, maple syrup is packed with antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese, which support brain health. It also provides a natural source of sweetness, which can enhance mood and satisfaction when consumed in moderation.
Rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, peanut butter can contribute to better brain health and cognitive function in more ways than one. It further contains tryptophan, which helps produce serotonin, promoting better mood and sleep.
Jelly also contains natural sugars, which can provide a quick boost of energy and enhance mood when consumed in moderation. Depending on the type of jelly or preserves you use, some jellies, such as those made from berries, are rich in antioxidants that protect brain cells from damage and support mental health.
Related Article: Does Chocolate Make Everything Better? Try This Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal When You Feel Down
It takes five minutes, meaning you barely have to think about it. Plus, the benefits speak for themselves. Take a load off of your stress in the morning and get ready to dig into this easy breakfast.
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July 6, 2025
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