Healthy Benefits of Oats

Oat bran and whole grain oat products are tasty, convenient and economical source of units than provide proven health benefits.

Oats are a great source of dietary fiber – they consist of approximately 55 percent soluble fiber and 45 percent insoluble fiber.

Oat bran’s dietary fiber is high in beta-glucan, which helps to lower cholesterol by binding bile acids and removing them from the body via the feces.

Tufts University researchers reported research results in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showing that eating a diet rich in oats significantly reduced both blood pressure and cholesterol.

Although oatmeal’s fiber content (7%) is less than that of oat bran (15 to 26 %), it has been determined that the polyunsaturated fatty acids contribute as much to the cholesterol-lowering effects of oats as does the fiber content.

The unique physical and chemical properties of fiber aid in early signals of satiation and enhanced or prolonged signals of satiety, leading to better energy intake control and reduced risk for development of obesity.

Oats contain a high percentage of desirable complex carbohydrates, which have been linked to: reduced risk of colon, breast, and prostate cancer; better management of diabetes; and fewer bowel problems such as constipation.

On a per gram basis, oats contain a higher concentration of protein, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, thiamin, folacin and Vitamin E than any other unfortified whole grain, such as wheat, barley, corn or rice. Oats have a high Vitamin B1 content, which is required by the body for carbohydrate metabolism.

This cereal is excellent of manganese which is often called ‘memory mineral’. Manganese also help stabilize glucose levels; it is very important for people with diabetes.

Oats contain one of the best amino acid profiles of all grains. Amino acids are essential proteins that help facilitate optimum functioning of the body.

Protein rich foods and rich amino acids formula consistently produced stronger and more sustained feelings of fullness and decreased subsequent food intake than food high in sugar or fat.

Oats are naturally low in fat. Researchers agree that nearly everyone – men and women of all ages and races – benefits from eating a low-fat diet. Values as low as 3% and as high as 12% have been reported.

The lipids present in oats contain a good balance of essential fatty acids, which has been linked with longevity and general good health.
Healthy Benefits of Oats