Most of us disregard oats for their ‘cardboard taste’ and the mushy food that only old people eat. But more and more people are bringing oatmeal to their breakfast tables and this superfood is getting the recognition it deserves. It is rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber and brings about a lot of health benefits. Take a look at these 10 reason why your breakfast should include oatmeal.
#1. Protection against cardiovascular diseases
The whole wheat grain provides tons of other health benefits apart from weight loss. The lignan essence present on oats reduces the risk of heart diseases such as stroke and hyper tension.
#2. Prevents constipation
Oats are primarily consumed for their high fiber content. Oatmeal has both kind of fiber- soluble and insoluble. The insoluble one moves along with the digestive tract to ease the movement of waste material from the body and thus prevents constipation.
#3. Low cholesterol
Oatmeal has high quantities of beta-glucan, a fiber associated with low levels of cholesterol. A study showed that daily consumption of at least 3 grams of beta-glucan can reduce the bad cholesterol ‘LDL’ by around 5-10 per cent.
#4. Healthy skin
Oatmeal isn’t just good for the internal organs of your body but also your skin. The beta-glucan present in it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which combats skin aging, dryness and wrinkles.
#5. Weight loss
The high fiber content as well as low calories are what make oats an amazing choice for breakfast. Oatmeal also makes you feel full during the day thus curbing your snacking habit. Throw in a few slices of banana and berries for extra flavor and nutrition.
#6. Reduces Cancer Risk
Lignan found in oatmeal not only helps in maintaining cardiovascular health but also reduces the risk of cancers such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer and prostate cancer.
#7. Good for preventing diabetes
Since it is good complex carbohydrate, it can slow down the digestion of sugar and makes sure that sugar isn’t absorbed too quickly in your body. This keeps the sugar levels in check and is good for anyone wanting to reduce their risk of obesity and diabetes.
#8. Protein rich
Just one serving of oatmeal gives you around 5 grams of protein. So not only it is a rich source of protein but can also be added to other foods if you are looking to increase your protein intake. Mix it up with nuts, cheese, poached egg or black beans to get a good protein-packed breakfast.
#9. Builds Immunity
Oatmeal strengthens your body internally by boosting its immunity. The anti-oxidants and complex essence present in it aid in building immunity and eliminate disease causing bacteria.
#10. Good source of Magnesium
Magnesium regulates enzyme function and energy production, relaxes blood vessels and thus regulates the supply of blood and provides protection against strokes and heart attacks. Oatmeal is a rich source of this precious mineral. So have a bowl of oatmeal a day to utilize your body’s glucose and insulin secretion.