We can’t say enough good things about oatmeal (but maybe we’re a little biased). Undoubtedly, there is a wealth of research that touts the health benefits of oatmeal as a part of your daily breakfast rotation. Here are the top five:
- Oatmeal promotes satiety to keep you feeling full longer. Fiber keeps you feeling fuller longer and oats are loaded with it – about 10 grams per dry cup. A bowl of oatmeal in the morning will help keep mid-morning snacking at bay. Add a low-sugar protein powder or other protein toppers like Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to add to that satisfied feeling.
- Oatmeal is good for your gut. Oats are a prebiotic food and the beta-glucan fiber helps feed the good bacteria. The fiber helps to keep you full for hours by slowing down digestion AND contributes to keeping bowel movements regular. A healthy gut decreases the risk for disease and inflammation.
- Oatmeal aids in the regulation of blood sugar. Oatmeal is a complex carb meaning it has oodles of fiber and is more slowly digested than other refined carbs. This causes a steady increase in your blood sugar rather than a large spike. This promotes steady energy instead of a spurt of energy and then a crash a few hours later. It’s good news for people with diabetes as well.
- Oatmeal helps to Lower LDL Cholesterol. If you want to lower your LDL cholesterol, switch to oatmeal for breakfast. Oats contain beta-glucan fiber which has a tremendous impact on reducing LDL or “bad” cholesterol. It’s one of the best foods that you can eat for a healthy heart.
- Oatmeal has anti-Inflammatory properties. Not only do oats have protein and fiber, they are full of other powerful vitamins and minerals. Oats boast 24 phenolic compounds — plant compounds that have antioxidant properties. One antioxidant group called avenanthramides are found almost exclusively in oats and help reduce inflammation and protect against coronary heart disease.
Any type of oats — steel cut, rolled or instant — provide health benefits, but the best of the best are steel cut oats since they are the least processed, offer a touch more nutritional value and are the lowest on the glycemic index. Unfortunately, they can take the longest to prepare, but we have a solution for that.
Look for us in the freezer aisle. Path of Life Organic Steel Cut Oatmeals are sweetened with only fresh fruit so you can’t go wrong with either the Apple Cinnamon or Berry flavor. Plus, our pouches are ready in just four minutes in the microwave.
Find more ideas on our recipes page, and keep your eye on this blog for more tips, tricks, recipes, and knowledge to help you live a more simple, flavorful and nutritious life.
I'm a nutrition enthusiast with a deep understanding of the health benefits associated with various food choices, particularly oatmeal. The evidence supporting the positive impact of oatmeal on health is not only compelling but also rooted in scientific research.
Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Satiety and Fiber Content:
- Oatmeal is rich in fiber, providing around 10 grams per dry cup.
- The high fiber content promotes satiety, helping you feel full for an extended period and reducing mid-morning snacking.
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Gut Health:
- Oats are prebiotic foods that support a healthy gut.
- The beta-glucan fiber in oats acts as a fuel source for good bacteria, contributing to regular bowel movements and reducing the risk of disease and inflammation.
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Blood Sugar Regulation:
- Oatmeal, as a complex carb, is slowly digested, leading to a gradual increase in blood sugar levels.
- This steady release of energy is beneficial for maintaining stable energy levels and is particularly advantageous for individuals with diabetes.
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Cholesterol Lowering:
- Oats contain beta-glucan fiber, known for its ability to lower LDL cholesterol or "bad" cholesterol.
- Regular consumption of oatmeal can contribute to a healthier heart.
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Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
- Oats are packed with 24 phenolic compounds, including avenanthramides, a unique antioxidant group.
- Avenanthramides, found almost exclusively in oats, play a role in reducing inflammation and protecting against coronary heart disease.
The article suggests that all types of oats offer health benefits, but steel-cut oats are highlighted as the best choice due to their minimal processing, increased nutritional value, and lower glycemic index. Additionally, the mention of Path of Life Organic Steel Cut Oatmeals in the freezer aisle emphasizes a convenient and nutritious option with minimal preparation time.
As someone deeply passionate about nutrition, I encourage incorporating oatmeal into your daily routine for its multifaceted health advantages. Whether you choose steel-cut, rolled, or instant oats, you're making a positive contribution to your overall well-being.
