Health Benefits Of Oats: A Slow Complex Carb

Oats are so much more than oatmeal or rolled oats. Oats are a cereal grain, which is the perfect alternative to other cereal grains like wheat, barley, or rye. Multiple medical studies have shown the broad range of benefits of oats for many health conditions. Oats are a healthy addition to any meal and not just for breakfast anymore.

The health benefits of oats

Oats are a slow-release complex carbohydrate (carb). Instead of releasing all the carbs at one time, oats slowly break down, releasing carbs at a steady, slower rate. This offers energy release at a slower, steady rate than fast-release carbohydrates. It also helps enhance the feeling of being full or satisfied

Oats contain a fiber known as beta-glucan, which has many health benefits. Multiple scientific studies have shown that ingesting this fiber has a direct effect on lowering cholesterol levels in the body. Eating oats rich with beta-glucan can stimulate the immune system’s response to infection. Beta-glucan helps the immune system detect intruders faster, which in turn helps infections clear up faster. Beta-glucan helps people with Type 2 diabetes by keeping blood sugar levels from rising quickly, not only immediately after eating, but for a good period of the day. Several studies have proven that eating whole grains, like oats, also lowers the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar release throughout the day.

There are certain antioxidant compounds only found in oats that can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. These antioxidants, known as avenanthramides, help prevent free radical damage due to LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), lowering the chances of developing cardiovascular disease. Postmenopausal women experience cardiovascular benefits from eating a serving of oats at least six times a week. A study published in the American Heart Journal showed that women experienced slower build-up of plaque in the arteries and fewer problems with narrowing of the arteries when they ate oats regularly.

For those who have gluten intolerance or Celiac disease, oats are often a great substitute for wheat, barley, and rye. While some people with gluten sensitivity issues also have issues with oats, most do not. Most people with gluten intolerance can use oats as a high fiber substitute for wheat flour in recipes.

Oats are not just a breakfast food

The biggest barrier to adding more oats to the American diet is the fact that most people associate oats with breakfast. They are used to having oatmeal or having oats as an ingredient in breakfast cereal. With all of the health benefits and varied uses, oats can be a part of any meal or snack you have during the day. You do not have to eat a huge amount of oats to enjoy the benefits either.

Deborah Kaye’s Cookies offers you a delicious alternative for adding more oats to your diet. At Deborah Kaye’s Cookies, we use a completely oat-based recipe, mixed with organic, non-GMO ingredients to make a tasty cookie you will love. Take a look through our online store to see our varieties. If you would like additional information, send us an email via contact us or call us at (806) 239-7808.