Oats are one of the healthiest grains on the planet, cultivated for millennia. Although its dietary use in humans is relatively recent, it was once reserved for animal consumption. Since the 70s, it has gradually found its place in our diets, in different forms: flakes, flour, oatmeal, porridge, vegetable drink or even oat bran.
What are the benefits of oats?
L’oats is rich in lipids (unsaturated fatty acids), dietary fiber, vitamins and essential minerals, which makes it a cereal with multiple benefits.
- Heart health: The beta-glucan fibers in oats are known to reduce LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels in the blood. This action helps reduce the risk of heart disease by minimizing plaque buildup in the arteries.
- The fight against obesity: Oats are a wise choice for maintaining a healthy weight or for weight loss. The soluble fiber found in oats has the ability to form a viscous gel in the digestive tract, which slows the digestion of carbohydrates and promotes a longer-lasting feeling of fullness, which can reduce cravings and snacking. In addition, its fiber content promotes regular digestion, thus helping to maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Cholesterol regulation: Oats are particularly recommended for their action hypocholesterolemic. It is one of the foods with the greatest impact on blood cholesterol levels. It makes it possible to reduce bad LDL cholesterol but also the level of cholesterol overall. By consuming oats regularly, one can help regulate blood sugar, reduce blood cholesterol and maintain a healthy weight.
- Strengthen bones (remineralization): Oats are a source of many essential nutrients, such as manganeseTHE phosphorus, magnesium and iron. It also contains B vitamins, including thiamine (B1) and vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid). These nutrients play a crucial role in energy metabolism and bone health.
- Treatment of certain skin diseases: Oats are also very rich in vitamin E, an excellent antioxidant for the skin, and also contain saponins. This cereal has cleansing and moisturizing properties:
– To absorb impurities and residues that can clog the pores of the skin, while respecting the pH of the skin.
– An emollient, calming and soothing action for irritated skin.
– It relieves itching of all types: eczema, dermatitishives or even psoriasis.
“Oats as a cereal are one of the essential products for a healthy and balanced diet. Regular consumption of oats and other cereal products could thus reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Studies also show the impact of consuming oats and other whole grain cereals in preventing certain cancers.adds Joachim Gaulin, nutrition expert.
How to eat oats for breakfast?
Oats are also popular for their ease of preparation. THE oatmeal are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to smoothies and savory recipes. To prepare an oat-based breakfast, cook 40 g of oat flakes (or 5 to 6 tablespoons) in 1/4 liter of milk. Depending on your preferences, you can add a spoonful of honey or a pinch of sugar. After about ten minutes of cooking, when the oats are cooked and have absorbed the milk, you obtain a soft and creamy mixture.