Why It’s Good to Eat More Oats

Whole grains can do a lot for us. When it comes to weight loss, we need all the help that we can get. Cravings and mid-morning tummy growls can get the best of us. When you add oats as a part of a healthy diet, you win on all counts.

The oat

Cereals contain it and so might your next parfait or yogurt. But, how can you get the best benefit from this small round wonder? Eating it alone is one way.

Oatmeal is a hot cereal that can be instrumental in lowering your cholesterol and enhancing your diet. Try to avoid flavored kinds because they are filled with extra sugars that you don’t need. If you aren’t adept at fixing oatmeal, using the instant plain variety is good. You can add a bit of honey or sugar substitute to enhance the taste.

Lowering cholesterol

Oats and oat bran contain all the parts of the grain, which makes them more beneficial. For the oat, one of its major components is fiber. Fiber is a powerhouse substance and oats are full of it.

Fiber comes in two forms – soluble and insoluble. Insoluble fiber is spongy and passes through the digestive system rather readily. But, it doesn’t pass alone. It takes along with it some cholesterol and a measure of fat so that it never gets stored in your system.

Soluble fiber is used by the body to remove bad cholesterol, while not affecting levels of good cholesterol. As the fiber breaks down, it forms a gel. This gel captures many substances in the intestines and takes them out to sea.

Increasing the feeling of fullness

Are you prone to cravings and sugar rushes? One way to keep your blood sugar stable throughout the day is with oatmeal and other grains. When the meal breaks down, it again forms a gel. This gel passes into the intestines. It is harder than other substances to digest so it takes time to pass. In the meantime, you experience steady energy as it is broken down. That leads to a feeling of fullness longer so you don’t have to concentrate on food. You can feel your focus all day without feeling lightheaded or hungry.

When you feel full, you are less likely to eat. For those trying to lose weight this is a bonus. You eat less so that the calories you burn are stored fat, which is what you want. At the same time, insulin production is regulated properly reducing the risk of diabetes.

How many oats should you eat? Only one cup a day can do the trick to help your body get back on track. For heart health, vascular health, weight control, energy needs and digestive function, eat oats.