Having a steaming bowl of oatmeal is an excellent whole grain breakfast to promote better health. Just a cup of cooked oatmeal contains 4 grams of fibre- nearly the same amount that’s in an apple or a cup of cooked brussels sprouts. To boost the health benefits of oatmeal, simply add nuts, fruits, or spices. Do not add too much sugar, though. Instead, let the natural flavours of the fruits and spices enhance its taste. If you do not like oatmeal, below, are the top reasons why eating oatmeal is an excellent choice for your health.
AIDS IN WEIGHT LOSS
An oatmeal breakfast is great for those striving to lose those extra pounds and maintain a healthy body weight. Being rich in protein and fibre, it makes you feel fuller and satiated. Oatmeal provides more filling fibre than other cereals. The soluble fibre in oatmeal absorbs a considerable amount of water which significantly slows down your digestive process. This result is that you’ll feel full longer, i.e. oatmeal can help you control your weight!
LOWER YOUR CHOLESTEROL
High-fibre foods famously benefit cholesterol levels, and oatmeal is no exception. The soluble fibre in oatmeal helps to reduce the body’s absorption of “bad” cholesterol that can increase the risk for heart attacks and strokes. In addition, oatmeal contains an antioxidant called avenanthramide that protects against LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) oxidation. So to enhance the cholesterol-lowering effects, combine your oatmeal with a vitamin C-rich food such as an orange.
OATS MAKE AN EASY BALANCED BREAKFAST
One cup of cooked oatmeal contains about 150 calories, four grams of fibre (about half soluble and half insoluble), and six grams of protein. To boost protein further, my favourite way to eat oatmeal is with a swirl of almond butter nestled within. This powerful combo will keep you away from that mid-morning visit to the vending machine.
OATS STABILIZES BLOOD SUGAR
Oatmeal contains high-quality carbohydrates that provide a steady source of energy compared to other breakfast options. Being high in fibre, the body digests it slower and it does not cause a spike in blood glucose levels. Moreover, scientific studies have found that regular consumption of whole grains like oats reduces the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
OATS ARE NATURALLY GLUTEN FREE
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but check with manufacturers to ensure that their products are not made using the same equipment as other potentially contaminating grains. (Always purchase gluten-free products from reputable companies and read food labels carefully.) Adults and children who have celiac disease cannot eat gluten, but studies show that they can eat oatmeal although it contains negligible amount of gluten.
REDUCES RISK OF HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Since oatmeal is high in fibre, which is heart-healthy, it offers many cardiovascular benefits, including a reduced risk of developing high blood pressure. It’s recommended that postmenopausal women, who tend to develop high blood pressure, should eat six servings of oatmeal or other whole grains on a weekly basis. Studies show that men can also reduce their risk of heart failure if they eat one bowl of whole grain cereal or oatmeal, per day.
OATS CONTAIN BOTH SOLUBLE AND INSOLUBLE FIBRE
Soluble fibres form a viscous gel that helps to lower cholesterol and stabilize blood glucose levels. The insoluble fibre in oats helps provide a “moving” experience by curtailing constipation and improving intestinal health. What a delicious way to make your heart and colon smile! 😀
THERE ARE ENDLESS WAYS TO MAKE OATMEAL
If you think oatmeal is boring, or just a breakfast food- you are mistaken. You can make savoury dishes from the stuff: Top it with some cheese and a fried egg, bake it with some chicken or even mix it with some greens (avocado and kale add a really nice texture). And you can get a little creative with your favourite flavours- try a couple of recipes and experience the wonders of carrot cake oatmeal, toasted coconut oatmeal, Nutella oatmeal and more.