Reduce Cholesterol and Diabetes With Oatmeal
Oats are an Excellent Source of Antioxidants and Energy
Aug 18, 2009
A nourishing cereal, oats are also one of the most complete foods on earth. This grain is packed with vitamins and minerals such as silica and other trace elements to help the body build sturdy bones and muscles, maintain joint elasticity and much more. Oatmeal also contains a wide array of antioxidants and is a good source of protein, complex carbohydrates, fats and iron. A perfect food for those with digestive problems, oats are easy to digest, provide abundant energy, and encourage the body’s growth and repair.
Oats Provide Vitamins and Minerals for Good Health
Oats also contain a greater proportion of protein than any other grain. They also contain all the B vitamins in a density found in no other food. Oats are rich in vitamin E and contain fatty acids and vitamin K. Compared with other whole grains, oats also have the highest amounts of calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper and manganese. And this healthy cereal grain has more healthy, soluble fiber than whole wheat, rice or corn.
The oat plant, Avena sativa, is a species of cereal grain grown for its seed. The oat seeds are rolled or crushed in to oatmeal, or ground fine into oat flour. Oatmeal is also used in a variety of other cereals, cereal bars, breads, muffins, cookies, and in muesli cereal and granola.
The Health Benefits of Oats
Studies show that eating oatmeal can help reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease. The soluble fiber, called oat bran, on the outside of oats is believed to lower harmful LDL cholesterol, while maintaining the healthy cholesterol your body needs. And all that is needed is ¾ cup of oatmeal a day.
The soluble fiber in oats provides a sustained release of glucose into the bloodstream. Additionally, oats are the only cereal containing the hormone-like substance saponin, which assists the pancreas in regulating insulin production. This is also why eating oats can normalize blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes and even reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The soluble and insoluble fiber in oatmeal aids digestion and may help to which prevent hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and even colorectal cancer. In fact the fiber and other nutrients found in oatmeal may actually reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Preventing Obesity and Gluten Intolerance
The soluble fiber in oatmeal is able to absorb a considerable amount of water. This helps to ease the digestive process and makes you feel full longer, helping you to maintain a healthy body weight. Oats also merits special attention for individuals who are gluten-intolerant. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and other related grains. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, patients with gluten intolerance could eat oatmeal without any side effects, because its proteins are different from gluten, making oats easier to digest.
Adding the benefits of oats to your diet can be simple, healthy, and delicious. Instant flavored and packaged oatmeal is a great breakfast on the go, however some varieties contain excess sugars. Try making your own oatmeal with instant plain oats or oats that have been soaked in water overnight and add sugar and cinnamon to taste. The cinnamon also helps to reduce unhealthy cholesterol and lower blood sugar levels.
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