health benefits of oatmeal for dogs
9 Health Benefits of Eating Oats and Oatmeal
Studies show that oats and oatmeal have many health benefits. These include weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, and a reduced risk of heart disease.
Oats are among the healthiest grains on earth. Theyre a gluten-free whole grain and a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
Here are 9 evidence-based health benefits of eating oats and oatmeal.
What are oats and oatmeal?
Oats are a whole grain food, known scientifically as Avena sativa.
The most intact and whole form of oats are oat groats, which take a long time to cook. For this reason, many people prefer rolled, crushed, or steel-cut oats.
Instant (quick) oats are the most highly processed variety. While they take the shortest time to cook, the texture may be mushy.
Oats are commonly eaten for breakfast as oatmeal, which is made by boiling oats in water or milk. Oatmeal is often referred to as porridge.
Theyre also often included in muffins, granola bars, cookies, and other baked goods.
SummaryOats are a whole grain commonly eaten for breakfast as oatmeal (porridge) and added to baked goods.
The nutrient composition of oats is well-balanced. They are a good source of carbs and fiber, including the fiber
Oats are also a good source of
Oats are loaded with important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant plant compounds.
Half a cup (40.5 g) of dry oats
The nutritional profile of one cup of prepared oatmeal (one half cup dry oats with water) also includes:
- 27.4 grams (g) of carbs
- 5.3 g of protein
- 2.6 g of fat
- 4 g of fiber
- 153.5 calories
SummaryOats are rich in carbs and fiber, but also higher in protein and fat than most other grains. They contain many vitamins and minerals.
2. Whole oats are rich in antioxidants
Whole oats are high in antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols. Most notable is a unique group of antioxidants called
Research has found that avenanthramides may help lower blood pressure levels by increasing the production of nitric oxide gas. This gas molecule helps dilate (widen) blood vessels, which may lead to better blood flow.
In addition,
SummaryOats contain many antioxidants, including avenanthramides. These compounds may help reduce blood pressure and have anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effects.
3. Oats contain a powerful soluble fiber
Oats contain large amounts of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber. Beta-glucan partially dissolves in water and forms a thick, gel-like solution in your gut.
The health benefits of beta-glucan fiber include:
SummaryOats are high in the soluble fiber beta-glucan, which has numerous benefits. It helps reduce blood glucose levels, promotes healthy gut bacteria, and can regulate type 2 diabetes.
4. Oats can lower cholesterol levels
Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. One major risk factor is high blood cholesterol.
Many studies have shown that the beta-glucan fiber in oats is effective at reducing both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
Beta-glucan may increase the release of cholesterol-rich bile, which reduces the circulating levels of cholesterol in your blood.
Oats may also protect LDL (bad) cholesterol from oxidation.
Oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol occurs when it reacts with free radicals. This is another crucial step in the progression of heart disease.
LDL cholesterol produces inflammation in arteries, damages tissues, and can raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
SummaryOats may lower the risk of heart disease by reducing both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, as well as by protecting LDL from oxidation.
5. Oats can improve blood sugar
Type 2 diabetes is a common health condition, characterized by significantly elevated blood sugar levels. It usually results from decreased sensitivity to the hormone insulin.
Oats may help lower blood sugar levels, especially in people with obesity or who have type 2 diabetes.
These effects are mainly attributed to beta-glucans ability to form a thick gel that delays the emptying of the stomach and absorption of glucose into the blood.
The beta-glucan in both oats and barley may also improve insulin sensitivity.
However, a randomized clinical trial in 2016 saw no improvement in insulin sensitivity, so further research is needed.
SummaryDue to the soluble fiber beta-glucan, oats may improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar levels.
6. Oatmeal is very filling and may help you lose weight
Not only is oatmeal (porridge) a delicious breakfast food, but its also very filling. Eating filling foods
By delaying the time it takes your stomach to empty of food, the beta-glucan in oatmeal may increase your feeling of fullness.
Beta-glucan may also promote the release of peptide YY (PYY), a hormone produced in the gut in response to eating. This satiety hormone has been shown to lead to reduced calorie intake and may decrease your risk of obesity.
SummaryOatmeal may help you lose weight by making you feel more full. It does this by slowing down the emptying of the stomach and increasing the production of the satiety hormone PYY.
7. Finely ground oats may help with skin care
Its no coincidence that oats can be found in numerous skin care products. Makers of these products often label finely ground oats as colloidal oatmeal.
The FDA approved colloidal oatmeal as a skin-protective substance back in 2003. But oats have a long history of use in the
For example, oat-based skin products may improve uncomfortable symptoms of eczema.
Note that skin care benefits pertain only to oats applied to the skin, not those that are eaten.
SummaryColloidal oatmeal (finely ground oats) has long been used to help treat dry and itchy skin. It may help relieve symptoms of various skin conditions, including eczema.
8. Oats may decrease the risk of childhood asthma
Its an inflammatory disorder of the airways the tubes that carry air to and from a persons lungs.
Although not all children have the same symptoms, many experience recurrent coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
But whether oats can help prevent asthma development in children is still debated.
SummarySome research suggests that oats may help prevent asthma in children when fed to young infants, but more research is still needed.
9. Oats may help relieve constipation
People of all ages and populations experience constipation. This refers to infrequent, irregular bowel movements that are difficult to pass.
Constipation affects nearly
Studies indicate that oat bran, the fiber-rich outer layer of the grain, may help relieve constipation.
Oat bran was also shown to decrease gastrointestinal symptoms and aid digestion in people living with ulcerative colitis (UC).
However, while the soluble fiber in oats is generally effective against constipation, it has been found to be less effective against opioid-induced constipation. This is because it doesnt affect the movement of the colon that the drugs may suppress.
SummaryStudies indicate that oat bran can help relieve constipation and aid digestion in those living with gastrointestinal conditions like UC.
How to incorporate oats into your diet
You can enjoy oats in several ways. The most popular way is to simply eat oatmeal (porridge) for breakfast.
Here is what you need to make oatmeal:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup (250 ml) water or milk
- A pinch of salt
Combine ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook the oats, stirring occasionally, until soft.
To make oatmeal tastier and even more nutritious, you can add cinnamon, fruits, nuts, seeds, and Greek yogurt.
Oats are often also included in baked goods, muesli, granola, and bread.
Although oats are naturally gluten-free, they are sometimes contaminated with gluten. Thats because they may be harvested and processed using the same equipment as other grains that contain gluten.
If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, choose oat products that are certified as gluten-free.
SummaryOats can be a great addition to a healthy diet and are naturally gluten-free. They can be eaten as oatmeal (porridge) for breakfast, added to baked goods, and more.
Is it healthy to eat oats every day?
In one study from 2020, the health of participants with inactive (quiescent) UC who ate oat bran daily for 24 weeks was maintained, and they did not experience their symptoms getting worse. This suggests oats can be consumed every day.
However, since oats are high in fiber, you may notice changes in your stools appearance and the frequency at which you poop.
Consuming an excess amount of oats may also lead to decreased nutrient absorption.
Whats the difference between wheat and oats?
The nutrient composition of oats and wheat is different, but both contain carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Minerals you can find in both wheat and oats at similar levels include magnesium, zinc, and iron.
Oats are also naturally gluten-free, while wheat is not. That said, due to the possibility of cross-contamination if youre looking to make sure the oats are gluten-free, look for a label marking the oats as certified gluten-free.
Are oats carbs or protein?
Oats are a type of grain, which is a kind of carbohydrate. That said, 1/2 cup of dry oats also contains
Is oatmeal and oats the same thing?
Oats refers to the grains or seeds of the oat plant. You use oats to make oatmeal, which is a type of porridge.
Are oats really a superfood?
Oats are, in fact, among the most nutrient-dense foods you can eat. This means they are often considered a superfood. That said, there is no formal definition of the term superfood.
Oats are a nutritious food packed with important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In addition, theyre higher in soluble fiber and protein compared to other grains.
Oats have unique components like the soluble fiber beta-glucan and antioxidants called avenanthramides.
Benefits include lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, protection against skin irritation, and reduced constipation.
In addition, they are very filling, can be enjoyed several ways, and have many properties that should make them a food helpful for weight loss.
At the end of the day, oats are among the most nutrient-dense foods you can eat.
More about oats:
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal?
NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian first before giving your dog any new foods, especially people foods. What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors, such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet.
When its cooked and fed in moderation, oatmeal can be a great snack to share with your dog. Just make sure its prepared safelysteer clear of any dangerous ingredients that can make your dog sick and follow portion guidelines so she doesnt have too much.
But can dogs have raw oats? And what about oatmeal cookies? Heres what to know about preparing oatmeal so its safe for dogs to eat.
Is Oatmeal Good for Dogs?
Plain, cooked oatmeal can be a great addition to your dog's diet. This heart-healthy breakfast is rich in soluble fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins that help support your dogs coat and skin.
The high fiber content helps promote digestion and weight management. So incorporating cooked, plain oatmeal into your dogs food bowl may help regulate her digestive system and keep her feeling full longer, which is helpful for dogs who may need to shed a few pounds.
But when sharing your oatmeal, always steer clear from any extra ingredients that may make your dog sick, such as raisins or too much sugar.
Can Dogs Eat Uncooked Oatmeal?
Sprinkling raw oatmeal into your dogs food bowl might seem like an easy way to add fiber to her diet, but the uncooked grains are difficult to digest and can give her an upset stomach. Instead, prepare plain oatmeal with water and let it cool before sharing with your pooch.
How to Safely Prep Oatmeal for Dogs
Cooked, plain oatmeal can be a good addition to your dogs diet and contains many nutrients. But always avoid feeding your dog oatmeal that contains harmful toxic ingredients. Check the package for any of the following:
When cooking oatmeal, use water instead of milk because its better for your dogs digestive system. Cook the oatmeal as normal, without adding any sugar or salt. Let the oatmeal cool to room temperature before sharing with your dog, and start with small amounts as a complement to their usual food.
Always check with your vet before making any major changes to your dog's diet, especially if your pup has any health conditions or sensitivities.
How Much Oatmeal Can Dogs Eat Safely?
As with any new food, start slow. Just because oatmeal is OK to share with dogs does not mean she should have more than a few spoonfuls at a time! Youll want to avoid giving your dog too much oatmeal at once because the high fiber content can cause diarrhea or other digestive upset.
Note that these are just general guidelines. Its always best to check with your vet before making major changes to your furry friends food bowl.
Extra-small dog (220 pounds) = 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, up to twice per week
Small dog (2130 pounds) = 12 tablespoons, up to twice per week
Medium dog (3150 pounds) = 1/4 cup (or less), up to twice per week
Large dog (5190 pounds) = 1/2 cup (or less), up to twice times per week
Extra-large dog (91+ pounds) = 2/3 cup (or less), up to twice per week
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal Cookies?
Not all oatmeal is created equally, and therefore not all oatmeal snacks are safe for dogs. Oatmeal cookies that contain ingredients such as raisins, chocolate, nutmeg, or xylitol are harmful and should be avoided.
But even if your oatmeal cookie doesnt contain raisins, chocolate, or nutmeg, the high levels of sugar, butter, and oil found in baked goods can make your pet sick. Stick with plain, cooked oatmeal and avoid the cookies altogetherunless you can find a pet-safe option that satisfies your dogs sweet tooth, like:
There are plenty of naturally sweet human foods that dogs can also safely snack on. Just keep in mind that any treats should only make up 10% of your dogs overall diet. The other 90% should come from a well-balanced dog food.
Featured Image: Adobe/evgeniarusinova
WRITTEN BY
April Saylor
Freelance Writer
