Oats (Avena sativa), sometimes called the common oats, is a species of cereal grain grown for its seed, which is known by the same name (usually in the plural, unlike other cereals and pseudocereals). While oats are suitable for human consumption as oatmeal and rolled oats, one of the most common uses is as livestock feed. Here are oatmeal benefits for health.
Oats nutrition, oats idli recipe and oatmeal benefits for health (Avena sativa)
Oats have numerous uses in foods; most commonly, they are rolled or crushed into oatmeal, or ground into fine oat flour. Oatmeal is chiefly eaten as porridge, but may also be used in a variety of baked goods, such as oatcakes, oatmeal cookies and oat bread.
Oatmeal benefits for Health
Oatmeal is a rich source of soluble fiber, which is also found in apples, pears, prunes and barley. Soluble fiber inhibits the body’s absorption of low-density-lipoprotein, or LDL, which is known as the bad cholesterol. One-and-a-half cups of oatmeal contains more than five grams of fiber, and oatmeal benefits to reduce cholesterol level.
Whole grain oats are rich in immune-boosting nutrients. They are a good source of dietary fiber, which is linked to changes in immune cell activity. Moreover, the beta-glucans in oatmeal have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that beta-glucans help enhance the immune system response to bacterial infections.
Reduces cancer risk
Oats contain a compound called lignin which helps reduce chances of hormone-related cancers like breast, prostate and ovarian cancer. Eating oats is therefore good for both men and women.
Oats are a rich source of fiber – both soluble and insoluble ones. These help in regulating bowel movements and prevent constipation. Children who eat a bowl of oatmeal regularly are less likely to be obese and overweight.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Oatmeal contains high-quality carbohydrates that provide a steady source of energy compared to other breakfast options. Being high in fiber, the body digests it slower and it does not cause a spike in blood glucose level.
Oatmeal for weight loss
Oatmeal benefits to reduce weight if taken for long time as oatmeal known for its high content of fiber.
Skin benefits of Oats
Oats are effective in fighting dull, flaky dryness as they contain polysaccharides, which become gelatinous in water. They form a fine protective film when applied on the skin. The cereal is effective in addressing dry skin symptoms like itching, rashes, scales, peeling etc. For this make a facial mask by mixing a mashed banana with a cup of ground oatmeal and adding some lukewarm milk. Stir it properly to make it smooth and apply it all over your face for 10-15 minutes. Rinse off with cold water. This will help in replenishing the skin moisture, keeping it soft and hydrated.
Oats contain natural cleansers called saponins that can remove dirt and oil from the pores without causing irritation. It leaves behind soft and silky skin and reduces pore size. For this oats can be soaked in water to prepare oat milk which is a natural toner and cleanser. You can store this milk in a bottle in your fridge and apply it on your face with a cotton pad after face wash to smoothen and soften your skin.
Hair benefits of Oats
Combats Hair Loss
Oats contain high amounts of zinc, iron, magnesium and potassium that promote hair growth. A meal comprising of oats, berries and pumpkin is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin A as well as other nutrients. Vitamin C prevents scurvy, a disease that can also cause hair loss. Vitamin A, on the other hand, promotes hair development and maintenance.
Dry and Itchy Scalp
It is a natural moisturizer and can be applied on hair to get rid of dryness and itchiness. oatmeal benefits hair to soft and shiny. It is often used as an ingredient in shampoos.
Way to have oats in diet