Benefits of Oatmeal

The benefits of oatmeal can not be overstated. In this culture of sugary breakfast cereals, it seems oatmeal gets lost in the shuffle. However, as we age we start to move away from the lure of popular breakfast foods and desire something more nutritious. According to a survey done by Decision Analyst, Americans consider oatmeal the fourth healthiest food from a list of over 60 foods.

Dr. Brennecke, a board certified  naturopathic doctor who practices at the Rocky Mountain Wellness Center in Fort Collins Colorado says that oatmeal is still not popular in American diets. He also noted that even with oatmeal’s rather cheap price tag, the benefits of oatmeal are very high. Thus, this article will focus on four benefits of oatmeal that you may not have considered before.

1. Because of oatmeal’s rich content of carbohydrates and proteins, it is a natural energy booster. The International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism did a study which concluded that eating foods like oatmeal (low glycemic) 2-3 hours before a run will give you better endurance than eating high glycemic foods. The complex carbs digest slowly in the body which gives the muscles the energy they need to keep going longer. It also gives the muscles a head start in recovery after working out.

2. Oatmeal is also good for the skin. It helps soothe skin irritation while leveling off skin pH balance. Taking an oatmeal bath can not only soften skin, but protect against skin irritants. Oatmeal also contains various amounts of phenols which helps anti inflammatory activity. Oatmeal also contains niacin, selenium copper, thiamin and zinc, all of which promote good skin health.

3. Oatmeal, due to its high fiber content and long digestive properties, can make you feel fuller longer, which in turn help you to eat less, which promotes weight loss. Cholecystokinin is a hormone that combats hunger. When this hormone is coupled with beta -glucan (found in oatmeal) it’s hungry fighting abilities are increased.

4. Eating foods high in soluble fiber and whole oats are linked to good heart health. Calcium and Potassium are known to reduce high blood pressure and are both found in oatmeal. Numerous studies have been done that have linked eating oat based products with a healthy lifestyle. Oatmeal has also been linked with reducing the risk of diabetes. Mainly because of the slow digestive process which allows insulin to be released slowly and evenly.

Oatmeal may look and taste plain but the benefits of oatmeal is anything but plain. Try adding oatmeal to your diet at least a few times per week and watch the changes in your health and energy levels grow.