Oats are one of the healthiest grains on the planet Earth! As a great source of whole grains, oats, and oatmeal are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, and it’s made from just one primary ingredient: oat.
Nutritious with rich texture and mild taste, they are easy to combine with other ingredients such as chopped almonds, baru nuts, yogurt, honey, or fruits like berries, strawberries, grapes, and bananas. All that together make the oatmeal so delicious and easy to prepare that you will wonder why you haven’t had them for breakfast all along!
Studies have shown the many benefits of oats and oatmeal, and below, we present the most important ones:
Nutritional balance
Oats are a perfectly balanced food. One cup contains 51 grams of carbohydrates, 13 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat and 8 grams of fiber, and 303 calories. In addition to fiber and carbohydrates, oats also contain proteins, vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and essential fatty acids.
A healthier heart
Oats contain antioxidants and polyphenols. One of them is avenanthramide, which is found exclusively in this cereal. In addition, this polyphenol has anti-inflammatory properties. And this polyphenol helps to reduce blood pressure, which affects the health of the cardiovascular system.
Beta-glucan
Oats and oatmeal contain large amounts of beta-glucan, a fiber that aids digestion. This degradable fiber also reduces bad cholesterol, regulates the sugar level in the blood, gives a feeling of satiety, and supports good intestinal flora.
The ideal ally in losing weight
Thanks to fiber, oatmeal keeps us full for longer, maintains energy levels throughout the day, and prevents overeating and “hunger attacks.” Therefore, it affects the reduction of calorie intake during the day and promotes weight loss.
It strengthens the immune system.
Vitamins found in oatmeal include thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folic acid, vitamin E, and vitamin K. These ingredients are essential in building the immune system’s strength. Vitamin E, for example, helps break down complex lipid compounds into simpler compounds. Vitamin K acts as a blood coagulant, helps maintain bone health, and effectively fights diseases such as Alzheimer’s and cancer.
Skincare
It is no coincidence that oats can be found as an ingredient in various skin care products. This grain treats dry and irritated skin and reduces the symptoms of numerous skin diseases, including eczema.
Reduces the risk of asthma
Some studies have shown that oat protects children from the risk of asthma because it has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Fight against constipation
Many people suffer from constipation, and the main culprits are inactivity and poor nutrition. Because oats contain fiber, this food can help prevent constipation.
Oatmeal and candida
Candida is a fungal infection that can cause severe problems in the body. When it comes to oatmeal and candida, opinions are divided. Some experts believe that oatmeal can be consumed during the anti-candida diet, while others believe that it is not recommended due to the carbohydrate content of oats. In any case, it is advisable to consume raw, unprocessed oats, i.e., oatmeal – and you should never consume highly processed or instant oats, i.e., oatmeal. Raw oats are great food for gut microflora and can help keep candida under control.
Note:
There are many options for oatmeal, but oatmeal is healthy only when prepared with fresh ingredients! Avoid industrial oatmeal full of sugar and glucose-fructose syrup. Always choose to make your own new mix, adding yogurt, fresh fruit, and honey.
Bon Appetit!