Oats are the grains of the common oat plant, Avena sativa. From being mocked as the "poor man's breakfast," oats became an elixir for many to combat bad lifestyle and poor nutrition. Full of carbohydrates, proteins and fiber, a bowl of oats in the morning is definitely a start to a healthier you.

A great start to a great day - an oatmeal breakfast

Why are oats so healthy?

Oats are healthy because of what they contain. Here's a breakdown of the ingredients of oats:

  1. Carbohydrates: Oats are high in carbohydrates - and carbohydrates get converted into energy. A bowl of oats for breakfast is a perfect start to a day for anyone with high levels of physical activity.
  2. Proteins: As compared to other cereals and grains, oats have a perfect balance of proteinaceous compounds which are linked to overall bodily functions, good health and youthfulness. They brim with essential fatty acids and amino acids.
  3. Vitamins and Minerals: Oats are a good source of naturally-occurring thiamine, folic acid, pantothenic acid, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, phosphorus, copper, iron, manganese and magnesium.
  4. Insoluble Dietary Fiber: Insoluble dietary fiber keeps the gastrointestinal (GI) tract healthy and functioning well. It absorbs water greatly and adds weight to stools, making them heavier and thereby preventing constipation. It is also believed to reduce carcinogens in the GI tract.
  5. Soluble Dietary Fiber: One part of soluble fiber is beta-glucan - it gets digested and forms a gel-like substance in the intestine. This "gel" catches cholesterol-absorbing substances, which, in turn, lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) levels without affecting good cholesterol (HDL). A side benefit is the lowering of blood pressure, too. Beta-glucan also contributes to the high glycemic index of oats - a bowl for breakfast will keep you fuller, longer, thus ending unhealthy mid-morning snacking and helping you achieve weight loss goals. Recent studies have found that beta-glucan also speeds up healing.
  6. Tocotrienol: Tocotrienol is an antioxidant, and along with other antioxidant compounds such as tocopherols, it forms vitamin E which keeps cellular ageing at bay for longer.
  7. Phytochemicals: Phytochemicals are plant chemicals and are believed to cut down the risk of cancer. Lignan, a phytoestrogen compound, is believed to reduce the risk of hormone-related cancers such as breast, ovary, prostrate and endometrium.

So, have oats and stay healthier and live longer!