Good and Good for You -- Oats

Since the NCAA Tournament has moved on without the ACC, I think it’s now time to put the tribute to rest and get us back to the fun and fabulous world of Superfoods.

Today I want to focus on that culinary wallflower that we all love but probably give little thought to…oats.

Oats are everywhere, in our breads, in our breakfast, in our beer! So what is it about oats that makes them so super?

OATS

Ÿ Oatmeal and oat bran are significant sources of dietary fiber (dietary fiber is about half soluble and half insoluble).

Ÿ Oats, oatmeal and oat bran contain beta-glucan, a soluble fiber which has proven effective in lowering blood cholesterol.

Ÿ Oats contain antioxidant compounds called avenanthramides that help prevent free radicals from damaging good cholesterol and as so helps in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Ÿ Oats have a high fiber content which is necessary to keep bowel movements regular.

Eating oats help make you feel full longer – in a good way – and so makes a great aid in weight loss efforts.

Ÿ Oats have a higher level of well-balanced protein than other cereals.

Ÿ Consumption of whole grain products and dietary fiber such as oats has been shown to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart attack.

Like other cholesterol-lowering agents, oats work most effectively when consumed as part of a low-fat, high-fiber diet so don’t forget to add in exercise!

As you can see, oats is good food! So pick an oat food, any oat food (oatmeal, oatcakes, oatmeal cookies, granola, muesli), and add it to your regular diet today.