Benefits of Oat
September 17, 2009
For most of us, a nutritious breakfast includes a bowl of oatmeal. There is a wide range of benefits of eating oat. This amazing cereal is a rich source of potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, sodium, manganese, phosphorous, selenium and zinc.
Prominent B vitamins, including niacin, thiamin, riboflavin and Vitamin B6 are found in oat. Oat also contains protein and dietary fiber. All these nutrients make oat a favorite energy food. Besides improving your overall physical wellbeing, oat has some specific health benefits too.
Good for the heart
A bowl of oatmeal pancakes is part of a heart friendly meal. Oat is rich in dietary fibers. Dietary fibers present in the stomach, bind with the fats, removing the fats from the body. Beta-glucan a specific type of fiber present in oat is especially beneficial for flashing out cholesterol from the body.
Having a bowl full of oatmeal every day could reduce the cholesterol in the bloodstream by up to 23 percent. Studies have found that 1 percent decline in the cholesterol level could reduce the risk of heart diseases by about 2 percent. Besides dietary fibers, antioxidants present in oat can prevent heart diseases. Antioxidants, known as Avenanthramides, present in oat, could prevent oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
Oxidation of LDL cholesterol leads to cholesterol deposition in the coronary arteries, leading to clogged arteries, which increases the risk of heart diseases, heart attack and heart failure.
Food for diabetic patients
Oat is also the ideal food for people suffering from diabetes. Having a bowl of oatmeal every day helps to normalize the blood sugar level. Magnesium and dietary fibers found in oat stimulate secretion of insulin and aids absorption of glucose.
Boosts immunity
To prevent infections, you can strengthen your immune system by consuming oat. Beta-glucan, the dietary fiber present in oat, could significantly improve immune function. Studies have shown that beta-glucan helps immune cells to speedily reach the site of infection and locate the germs present there, rapidly healing infections. Moreover, oat also contains zinc, a prominent trace mineral needed to boost immunity.
Prevents cancer
Fiber found in oat can help to prevent certain cancers, including breast and bowel cancer.
Reduces stress
Oat can also help to reduce anxiety, stress and depression.
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