Health professionals often suggest eating a bowl of oatmeal in the
morning as it offers numerous health benefits. Selecting plain oat flakes from
Quaker Oats or a similar brand is best because instant oatmeal is usually high
in sugar. Oats are both a good source of insoluble and soluble fiber, two
components with their own unique potential for helping fight cancer, reducing
LDL cholesterol levels without lowering HDL cholesterol, providing diabetes
relief by slowing starch digestion, possibly countering heart disease
development, and containing cancer-fighting phytochemicals. As outlined by the
American Cancer Society:
1. Insoluble fiber can act against certain damaging bile acids and
reduce their toxicity;
2. Soluble fiber can bring down LDL cholesterol while leaving HDL
cholesterol unaltered;
3. Starch digestion is slowed with soluble fiber – helpful for
diabetics to avoid abrupt rises in blood sugar levels post mealtime;
4. Studies have shown that those who eat more oats may be less
likely to develop heart disease; and
5. The active chemicals inside oats might help protect the body
against cancer occurrence too!
Oats are an excellent source of essential nutrients, such as
vitamin E, zinc, selenium, copper, iron, manganese, and magnesium.
Additionally, oats contain a high level of protein. They're natural sources for
two types of fibers: insoluble fiber helps keep your stools firmer and speeds
their passage through the digestive tract; soluble fiber breaks down and forms
a gel that may bind substances related to cholesterol and reduce its absorption
into the bloodstream. Oatmeal is known for its bland taste; however, there are
several simple ways you can make it more palatable. These include using milk
instead of water to give it a creamy texture and additional calcium and
protein; adding Stevia powder to naturally sweeten its flavor without added
sugar; adding protein powder after it's cooked for improved texture and extras
nutrition; stirring in fresh fruit like blueberries for added texture and
flavor. Aim for 1 cup per day for maximum health benefits from oatmeal.