Reasons To Eat Oatmeal Every Morning
Oatmeal is not only a very easy food to prepare but is also known for its health benefits. Learn why you should include it in your breakfasts.
There are several reasons why it is very convenient to consume oatmeal every morning. And it is that this cereal is one of the foods that can not be missing in breakfasts, not only for the ease with which it is prepared but also for the benefits it represents for health.
In addition to being very versatile, it stands out, above all, for its nutritional and energetic contribution, which gives the body the necessary strength to carry out the activities that occur throughout the day. Next, we detail its properties so that you are encouraged to include it in your diet. Take note!
Benefits of consuming oatmeal every morning
Oatmeal is a food that goes well at any time. However, thanks to its energy supply, it is best to consume it at breakfast. You can enjoy it in your smoothies or eat it as a cereal accompanied by fruits such as strawberries and blueberries. Keep reading and know all its benefits.
1. Provides energy
Eating oatmeal every morning helps you start the day off right and gives your body extra strength to carry out daily activities. According to a review published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, the lipids contained in this food are an excellent source of energy and unsaturated fatty acids.
2. Increases the feeling of satiety
Another benefit of this cereal is that it helps you feel full longer after consuming it. In relation to this, research from the Journal of the American College of Nutrition indicates that oats reduce appetite and increase satiety.
This results in a lower caloric intake. Often, the mid-morning bite is caused by not consuming a proper breakfast that satisfies hunger. So, in order not to overeat, go ahead and include this food in the first meal of the day.
Also read: 5 keys to start the day with energy
3. Contributes to maintaining a healthy weight
As we mentioned in the previous point, oatmeal helps to keep you feeling full for a long time. This is beneficial for weight control by reducing the intake of high-calorie foods.
Regarding this, a study published in Plant Foods for Human Nutrition suggests that consuming this food daily could help reduce obesity, abdominal fat and improve liver functions. In addition, it would be an adjunct for metabolic disorders.
4. Has antioxidant potential
Antioxidants are molecules capable of preventing and delaying the oxidative damage that occurs in other molecules due to the action of free radicals. In other words, it favors the control of cells to avoid premature aging and the appearance of degenerative diseases.
According to a Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health publication, rolled oats contain a series of plant chemicals called phenolic compounds and phytoestrogens that act as antioxidants and help reduce the effects of chronic inflammation associated with cardiovascular disease.
5. It favors the control of cholesterol and glucose
Oatmeal is a food well known for its ability to partially inhibit the absorption of cholesterol and, therefore, keep it under control. This is possible thanks to its content of beta-glucans, a polysaccharide that can stimulate the immune system.
In addition, as mentioned in an article from the Mayo Clinic, a serving of oatmeal for breakfast provides 3 to 4 grams of fiber and 5 to 10 are needed to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood. So if, in addition, you add fruits such as a banana or some blueberries, you will get the necessary amount of this component.
On the other hand, a study published in The British Journal of Nutrition regarding the effects of the intake of this cereal on glycemic control and insulin sensitivity, it was found that its consumption helps lower blood sugar levels and fasting insulin concentrations.
6. Improves gastrointestinal health
If you usually have problems going to the bathroom, we recommend that every morning you eat 3 tablespoons of oatmeal dissolved in water or, failing that, in orange juice. Its high fiber content would help improve digestive function by reducing bloating, inflammation, abdominal pain and flatulence.
7. It is suitable for celiacs
One of the characteristics of oats that we cannot ignore is that it is a cereal that contains almost no gluten if consumed in its natural presentation, although it does contain avenin. Therefore, it is suitable for most people intolerant to this component.
However, if this is your case, we recommend that you always make sure to buy gluten-free oats, since many products are often contaminated. This, because it is usually processed in the same places as wheat, rye and barley.
Include oats in the usual diet
Now that you know all the benefits that oats provide to the body, do not hesitate to include them in your diet and prepare them in different ways. You can try eating it as a cereal or porridge with a little non-dairy milk and some fruits. Also, try incorporating it as an additional ingredient in your favorite smoothies. You will not regret!