FoodOats: A powerhouse of nutrients supporting heart health and stabilizing blood sugar

Oats: A powerhouse of nutrients supporting heart health and stabilizing blood sugar

Eat as often as possible, oatmeal has amazing properties.
Eat as often as possible, oatmeal has amazing properties.
Images source: © Getty Images | Matthew Lovette

1:28 PM EST, January 17, 2024

What nutrients are found in oats?

1. Vitamins and minerals

Oats are rich in numerous vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6, and vitamin E. They also contain noteworthy minerals such as iron, zinc, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium. These nutrients promote optimal body function, bolster our nervous system, boost immunity, improve skin health, and play an essential role in thyroid hormone production.

Oats are indeed a health powerhouse. They not only support gut health but also decelerate the aging process.

2. Protein

Oats are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, which our body absorbs easily. Protein is crucial for constructing and repairing tissues, producing enzymes, hormones, and other vital molecules in our body.

3. Fiber

Oats contain a specific type of soluble fiber known as beta-glucan. Research suggests that regular consumption of beta-glucan can lower LDL cholesterol levels (the so-called "bad cholesterol") in our bloodstream. Beta-glucan in oat flakes interacts with cholesterol in our gut, thus preventing its absorption into our blood. Consequently, our body excretes it in the form of feces, which aids in decreasing the overall cholesterol level in our body. This subsequently contributes to reducing the risk of heart and vascular diseases.

Consuming oats daily is like infusing your body with health and can help lower your cholesterol levels.

Due to their fiber content, oats are excellent for stabilizing blood glucose levels, preventing sudden insulin level changes. This means that oat consumption can be beneficial for people with insulin resistance.

4. Phytochemicals

Oat products may play a role in preventing certain types of cancer, especially breast and colon cancers, thanks to the presence of phytochemicals such as lignans. Lignans, which are phytoestrogens, interact with gut bacteria to produce substances in our body that protect against carcinogenic factors.

This syrup of health can cause your cholesterol and sugar levels to plummet.

Oat products, therefore, are a veritable powerhouse of nutrients, offering a multitude of health benefits. From supporting heart health, stabilizing blood sugar levels, to protecting against cancer, oats are a nutritional boon. Remember, however, to choose unsweetened products that are not enriched with additional fats!

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