The origin of Oat is not as old as that of other major cereal varieties; it only dates back to 3000 years. Originally grown as a weed variety, this wonder crop took some considerable time to become an important food grain.

Oatmeal is that de husked and rolled out part of Oat grain, which undergo several steps before making its final journey to our breakfast table. It is a low- fat and high protein diet rich in dietary fiber, along with that it is a great source of vitamins and micro-nutrients like Vitamin A, B, E, Zinc, Selenium, Copper and Iron.

Being a complex carbohydrate, it takes longer to get digested thus keeps the frequent hunger pangs at bay and maintains a low blood sugar level at the same time. As Oatmeal provides a constant source of energy for a significant time, it is one of the choicest breakfasts to kick -start the day with. Some of the scientifically proven facts about the goodness of oatmeal go like this.

Oatmeal for natural weight management

Dealing with weight related issues is a real challenge for everyone. Here comes Oatmeal which is a perfect breakfast option for those who wants to shed extra pounds. As Oatmeal is low in fat content having about 36%monosaccharides, 43%polysaccharide and 21%saturated fat.

One bowl of oatmeal contains barely 2-3 grams of fat which is very negligible but at the same time it contains a lot of soluble fiber. This helps in keeping the stomach full for longer duration without consuming unnecessary calories in between. As a result metabolism rate get accelerated, burning fat deposits to deal with the energy requirement of the body.

Oatmeal, to reduce cholesterol and protect heart

The polysaccharide “beta glucan” is a source of soluble fiber present in oats that lowers the risk of bad cholesterol or LDL in blood stream up to a large extent. Along with cholesterol, triglycerides the soluble fiber and antioxidants (avenanthramides) present in Oat are responsible for reducing viscosity of blood thus acts as an antidote to high blood pressure which ultimately leads to coronary diseases.

Scientific research has proven that daily consumption of oatmeal over a period of time reduces the risk of heart ailments by 14%that means just 5-8 grams of soluble fiber intake every day can reduce total cholesterol level by 25%.

An aide for diabetics

Regular consumption of Oatmeal reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes significantly. Its soluble fiber and natural Magnesium content acts as a co-factor in enzymatic reactions related to insulin secretion. Thus manage the level of glucose or blood sugar level from increasing.

Oatmeal and cancer

Oatmeal contains two of the nature’s powerful cancer fighting elements in the form of antioxidant Avenanthramides and photochemical Phenolic acid. These two fight the free radicals and reduce their toxicity. Along with this antioxidant present in Oat boosts the immune system to make it robust against onset of different kind of cancer (Lung, Breast).

All these things are backed by enough scientific evidence to prove that, Oatmeal indeed is the best breakfast cereal for everyone.