5 Surprising Reasons Why Eating More Oats Can Improve Your Health
Did you know that whole-grain oats are one of the healthiest grains that you can have in your diet?
Not to be confused with instant (quick) oats which are highly processed, whole-grain oats are not only gluten-free, but they have a multitude of positive health benefits that can help to:
Lower your cholesterol
Lower your blood sugar levels
Lose weight
Increase healthy gut bacteria
And more!
So, this week I am doing a deep dive into the positive health benefits of oats to show you why you should be eating oats more regularly in your diet.
Oats are full of protein and good fats
Compared to other grains, oats have been shown to have more protein and good fats like poly- and monounsaturated fats per serving. Bob’s Red Mill Organic Rolled Oats, for example, has 7 grams of protein per serving and only 0.5 grams of saturated fat. Eating foods that are high in protein can help you feel fuller for longer.
Oats are high in beta-glucan fiber
Beta-glucan fiber is a soluble fiber that not only helps to increase fullness and lower your daily calorie intake, but it has also been shown to
Increase growth of good bacteria in your gut
Reduce blood sugar levels
Lower total cholesterol levels
Oats are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
Just one serving of oats will get you a hearty amount of
Phosphorus
Magnesium
Copper
Iron
Zinc
Folate
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B5.
It also contains powerful antioxidants like avenanthramides and ferulic acid. Avenanthramides have been shown to help lower blood pressure levels and have anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effects.
Ferulic acid is another antioxidant that is popularly found in many skin care products and is used to help preserve and protect the skin.
This is why oatmeal is a popular ingredient in facials and why oatmeal-based products could be great for those dealing with skin conditions such as eczema.
Oats are a great natural way to relieve constipation
Passing regular bowel movements is a sign of good gut health and a healthy metabolism. While there is no recommended amount of times you should poop in a given day, it is believed that pooping anywhere from three times a day to three times a week is normal.
But if you struggle with passing regular bowel movements, and are not into taking laxatives, then adding in a bowl of oatmeal could be your best natural option.
Could Decrease The Risk of Childhood Asthma
Studies have shown that an early introduction of oats into an infant’s diet may actually help to lower the risk of asthma during their childhood years. One study in particular found a decreased risk of childhood asthma in children who were fed oats before the age of 6 months.
Ways to add more whole-grain oats into your diet:
Make a bowl of oatmeal or overnight oats (check out my favorite high protein overnight oats recipe here).
Add oats or overnight oats to your smoothies
Use oatmeal or oat flour in your baked goods (check out how to make oat flour here).
Make homemade granola or granola bars
What are some of your favorite ways to eat oats? Let me know in the comments!
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