Oatmeal is making a well-deserved return to favor. The breakfast of grandfather’s the world over is a nutritional gold mine. It is loaded with manganese, copper, iron and B vitamins. It contains beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that feeds the healthy bacteria in the gut. This, in turn, strengthens the immune system.
Beta-glucan helps to reduce the absorption of cholesterol. A 70-gram bowl of oatmeal contains approximately 3 grams of this wonderful fiber. This helps to lower levels of LDL cholesterol, similar to taking medication like a statin, but without the side effects. If everyone ate oatmeal, there may be a significant reduction in heart disease and possibly bowel cancer. If you are currently on statins, seek medical advice before adjusting your medication.
It is best to eat regular oatmeal, not the instant oatmeal in individual packets. Regular oatmeal has a lower glycemic index, avoiding spikes in blood sugar levels.
Oatmeal is considered to be anti-cancer and an antioxidant. Studies found those who eat oatmeal regularly have lower rates of disease, are slimmer in the waist due to controlling abdominal fat distribution and have improved liver function. Oatmeal is easy to make, tastes good with added ingredients like fruits, seeds and nuts, and is cheap. Avoid sugar-laden breakfast cereals, your body will thank you for it. Perhaps Grandpa was right all along to eat this wonderfully nutritious breakfast.
