Oats are one of the healthiest whole grains and top the list in the favourite health food breakfast category.

They are available in a variety of forms depending on the level of processing but the most commonly consumed are oatmeal and rolled oats.

Oats have an abundance of nutrients that are beneficial to health, namely soluble and insoluble fibre, protein, antioxidants (polyphenols and phytoestrogens), B-vitamins, phosphorous, manganese, magnesium and copper. Oats are gluten-free that make them a great choice for the gluten-sensitive population. Oats once cooked give a slightly mushy and sticky texture.

Health Benefits:

• Oats are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fibre.
• Oats are exceptionally rich in Beta-glucan, a type of soluble fibre that absorbs water and swell to perform functions like
•       lowering blood cholesterol levels and thereby keeping the heart healthy,
•       helps to give bulk to your stools thus improving gut health,
•       keeps you satiated for a longer duration and
•       helps control hunger pangs for weight watchers.
• Insoluble fibre does not absorb water; it helps to keep your digestive system function smoothly by providing enough roughage to stools; keeping constipation, sluggishness and fatigue at bay.
• Oats have good quality protein that helps promote growth and development and keeps you satiated.
• It has a very low glycemic index, which does not allow a quick spike of blood glucose making it beneficial especially for diabetics.
• The presence of antioxidants in oats helps prevent certain types of cancers and heart diseases.
• Oats have a positive effect on lowering high blood pressure.
• Oats are gluten-free making them a great option for people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.

With all the goodness of Oats that benefits obesity, diabetes, heart disease and digestive health, make it a part of your regular balanced diet. Oats can be relished as breakfast cereals, overnight oats, in porridges, savoury oats and added to bakery items, pancakes, muffins, cutlets, cookies and energy bars.

Oats are just the right way to kick start your day, that will keep diseases at bay!