Oatmeal is a good breakfast for many reasons. Sometimes its simplicity is what makes it so great. It’s quick, affordable, healthy, and easy to prepare. If you’re not a big eater first thing in the morning but need something to eat before going out into the world, oatmeal is perfect for you.
1. Oats are Incredibly Nutritious
Oats are nutritional powerhouses. They provide a portion of your need for carbohydrates and vitamins B and E, iron, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, calcium, and zinc without leading to weight gain. Oats also have antioxidants that boost the immune system and lower cholesterol levels. The texture and taste of oatmeal make it all the more appealing for a quick breakfast.
2. Whole Oats are Rich in Antioxidants, Including Avenanthramides
Whole oats are good for your heart, thanks to avenanthramides, which are nature’s way of protecting oats from damage. Antioxidants also protect your body from damage and keep it running smoothly. Oatmeal is a whole-grain food that contains antioxidants and offers protection against some types of cancer.
3. Oats Can Improve Blood Sugar Control
Oats have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they won’t cause sharp spikes in blood sugar that leave you feeling hungry again just an hour later. Oats are among the best vehicles for delivering nutrients to your bloodstream because of their soluble fiber content. When incorporated into a healthy diet, they help regulate blood sugar, cholesterol, and body weight. They have a high thermic effect, which is the energy your muscles use during exercise – even when you’re doing light activity, they use a significant amount of calories.
4. Oatmeal Can Bolster Digestive Health
Oats have been traditionally linked to digestive health. They contain a series of compounds called avenanthramides, which are important for boosting good bacteria in your intestines and improving digestion. The avenanthramides also have anti-microbial properties that can help with stomach aches, allowing more nutrients to be absorbed from our food. This is especially useful for people who suffer from acid reflux or heartburn.
5. Oatmeal Can Help You Lose Weight
The goal of the diet is to get your digestive system functioning properly and kick-start weight loss. Oats are great for those who need something to fill them up until lunchtime. Oatmeal contains a high amount of fiber, which will help you feel fuller longer.
6. Oatmeal Can Help Lower Cholesterol
Oats are one of the few foods labeled as “high healthy fat” because of their high levels of soluble fiber. The high levels mean it’s more effective at lowering undesirable cholesterol than other grains. Many are unaware that oat bran contributes more to lowering cholesterol and triglycerides than whole oats themselves. They contain the same beneficial beta-glucan soluble fiber found in oats but much higher quantities of dietary cholesterol and lignin, which helps lower bad cholesterol.
7. Oats Can Help Energize Your Body and May Boost Its Immunity
Oats are a quick, easy, and affordable way to get energy for your day. Oatmeal is also a great source of vitamins and minerals to help keep you healthy. It’s known for providing sustained energy, which is better than the energy from a coffee because it keeps you going all morning without any caffeine spikes or crashes.
There’s no denying oatmeal has many benefits. It can be eaten as a breakfast or used as an ingredient in many other healthy foods. Oats are extremely versatile and can substitute for high-calorie, high-fat foods in many recipes. They are good for people who need something to fill them up until lunchtime.
