Discover the anti-cholesterol effects of oatmeal, a tasty tool in fighting heart disease
Oatmeal is packed with beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber. Studies indicate that the consumption of beta-glucan can assist in decreasing bad LDL cholesterol levels in the body.
3:51 PM EST, January 15, 2024
Excessive LDL cholesterol can accumulate on the arterial walls, causing them to narrow and consequently escalating the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Beta-glucan in oatmeal interacts with cholesterol in the intestines, hindering its absorption into the bloodstream. Consequently, the body expels it via stool, contributing to the general cholesterol decrease.
A mere 2 ounces of oatmeal daily can suffice to experience a noticeable effect quickly.
Ways to include oatmeal in your diet
Oatmeal is commonly used as a breakfast staple and can be consumed in various forms - in water, milk (including plant-based ones), yogurt, or broth.
Most people prefer it sweetened: with ingredients like bananas, cinnamon, strawberries, coconut shavings, honey, chocolate, kiwi, and nuts.
The trend of having a savory version is on the rise - simply include seeds, tomatoes, spinach, kale, tofu, bell pepper, eggs, miso paste, or soy sauce.
Breakfast is deemed the optimal time to consume it - as it supplies ample energy and provides satiety for a significant length of time.
Additional health benefits of oatmeal
Besides its cholesterol-lowering capabilities, oatmeal provides numerous other health benefits.
Oatmeal aids in stabilizing blood sugar levels, boosting gut health and metabolism, possesses anti-inflammatory attributes, and is packed with vital vitamins and minerals: calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, iodine, and B vitamins.
A serving of oatmeal can meet as much as 25% of the daily selenium requirement, an essential mineral for producing thyroid hormones.
