6 Reasons to Eat Oats and Oatmeal More Often
Oats and oatmeal deserve a spotlight in your diet. Why? Packed with nutrients and versatility, these little grains can do wonders for your health. Let’s dive into five compelling reasons you should eat oats and oatmeal more often.
1. Nutrient Powerhouse
Firstly, oats are nutrient-dense, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Rich in manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron, oats help maintain healthy bones and support energy production.
The high soluble fiber content, specifically beta-glucan, promotes healthy digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. Moreover, oats and oatmeal are good sources of high-quality protein and have fewer amounts of calcium and potassium.
2. Boost Your Heart Health
Did you know that oats can improve your heart health? As I mentioned earlier, they’re rich in a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan. According to medical research, beta-glucan assets lowers LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol).
Plus, oats contain polyphenols and avenanthramides, which have been shown to lower blood pressure. Eating just a bowl of oatmeal every day can decrease your risk of developing heart disease.
3. Control Your Blood Sugar
Oats can help regulate blood sugar levels. Studies show that the soluble fiber in oats slows down the absorption of glucose, resulting in a more gradual rise in blood sugar. This is especially helpful for individuals with diabetes or those at risk.
4. Enhance Your Digestive Health
This is a good reason to enjoy oats and oatmeal more often – they can promote gut health. Since oats are high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, they are effective in maintaining regularity and preventing constipation.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water, creating a gel-like substance that slows down digestion, while insoluble fiber adds bulk, keeping things moving smoothly.
5. Help With Weight Loss
Interestingly, many studies have associated oats and oatmeal with weight loss. This is due to their high Beta-glucan content, which promotes satiety, reducing hunger and overeating. They are low-calorie, nutrient-dense food that can be included in a balanced diet.
Additionally, oats have a low glycemic index, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels and thus aiding weight loss.
6. Boost Your Immune System
You might be surprised to learn that oats can help strengthen your immune system. The beta-glucan found in oats activates your body’s defense mechanisms, helping your body to combat infections.
Takeaway
Eating oats and oatmeal more often can improve your heart health, regulate blood sugar, and support weight loss. Packed with essential nutrients and fiber, oats also boost immunity and promote digestion.
Further reading: Benefits of Eating Oatmeal Every Day
