
One of the most widely grown cereals in the UK, oats are low-cost, nutritious and surprisingly versatile, and a great addition to a healthy diet. Did you know that oats are now classed as a zero points food by Weight Watchers?
Oats are a great source of fibre – carbohydrate that your body can’t digest. High fibre foods can help you feel fuller for longer and reduce spikes and dips in your blood sugar levels, meaning you’re less likely to snack on the unhealthy stuff!
Eating a high fibre diet can also improve your gut health, because not only does it help to keep you regular, it also feeds the good bacteria in your gut which in turn can improve your overall health. Studies have shown that getting enough fibre strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation and lowers the risk for heart disease, stroke, hypertension, obesity, type 2 diabetes and several cancers.
Beta-glucan, a soluble fibre found in oats and especially in oat bran, has been proven to have cholesterol-lowering benefits. While the body needs some cholesterol to function properly, too much can lead to heart disease and stroke. During digestion beta-glucan forms a gel in your gut which mops up cholesterol, reducing the amount that passes into your blood stream. This prompts the body to take the cholesterol it needs from the blood instead, which in turn lowers your blood cholesterol levels.
Oats are also a good source of protein, essential vitamins and minerals and antioxidants – see our post Go Nuts for Nuts to read more about antioxidants. The best way to increase your intake of oats is to start with natural, unsweetened products: that way you can control what is added and avoid the excess sugar, salt and additives often found in processed cereals.
Adding dried fruit to porridge while it’s cooking - raisins and sour cherries are delicious - plus a pinch of ground ginger and cinnamon, can really liven up your breakfast. If you’re not feeling inspired by a bowl of porridge, there are lots of other ways to enjoy oats. Try an overnight oats recipe, make your own granola and serve with yoghurt and fresh fruit, or create savoury dishes using oat bran, such as these delicious butternut squash & oat falafels.
You can pick up your porridge or jumbo oats at The Green Gram – we have organic and gluten free options available, plus organic oat bran too. Pop in with your containers and stock up!
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