Oats are a very good source of fiber, especially beta glucan, and are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whole oats are the only food source of a unique group of antioxidants believed to protect against heart disease.

Due to their many benefits, such as lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, oats have gained considerable attention as a health food.

Carbs make up 66% of oats by dry weight. About 11% of the carbs is fibre, while 85% is starch. Oats are very low in sugar. Whole oats pack almost 11% fibre, and porridge contains 1.7% fibre. The majority of the fibre in oats is soluble, mostly a fibre called beta glucan. Oats offer more soluble fiber than other grains, leading to slower digestion, increased fullness, and appetite suppression. Daily consumption of beta glucans has been shown to lower cholesterol, especially LDL (bad) cholesterol, and may thus decrease your risk of heart disease. 

Oats are a good source of quality protein at 11–17% of dry weight, which is higher than most other grains. Oats offer high amounts of many vitamins and minerals, such as manganese, phosphorus, copper, B vitamins, iron, selenium, magnesium, and zinc. Oats offer a number of potential benefits, including reduced cholesterol and blood sugar levels. What’s more, they’re very filling and naturally gluten-free. 

The bottom line 

Oats are among the world's healthiest grains and a good source of many vitamins, minerals, and unique plant compounds. Beta glucans, a type of soluble fiber in this grain, provide numerous health benefits. These include lower cholesterol, better heart health, and reduced blood sugar and insulin responses. In addition, oats are very filling and may reduce appetite and help you eat fewer calories.

If you’re curious about them, why not add oats to your morning routine for a fuelled start to your day? 

Article sourced from www.healthline.com