why is oatmeal good for your stomach

What are the benefits of oatmeal?

There are many science-backed health benefits of oatmeal. These include weight loss, decreased risk of heart disease, and lowered blood sugar.

Oatmeal is a very popular breakfast food that consists of oats and a liquid, such as water, cows milk, or plant-based milk. Full of nutrients and fiber, oats are one of the most nutritious whole-grain foods that a person can consume.

In this article, we list the potential benefits of oatmeal and provide its nutritional information. The benefits include:

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Oatmeal contains high levels of antioxidants.

Specifically, it contains polyphenols, which are plant-based compounds that are rich in avenanthramides.

Avenanthramides are a type of antioxidant that exists almost exclusively in oats.

Avenanthramides can benefit people by:

Oatmeal contains a soluble fiber called beta-glucan that can help improve insulin response and possibly reduce blood sugar too.

People with type 2 diabetes may find that incorporating oatmeal into their diet helps them manage their blood sugar levels, as long as they do not add extra sugar to the dish.

A review of research on the benefits of oatmeal for people with type 2 diabetes found that oatmeal has a positive effect on blood sugar control. The authors stated that more research is necessary to test the safety of oatmeal for people with type 1 diabetes.

Oatmeal is a nutrient-rich food that contains many vitamins and minerals while being low in calories.

Eating low-calorie foods that are high in nutrients can provide a person with the nutrients that their body needs while helping them lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Oatmeal contains:

There is some evidence to back up the claim that oatmeal can support healthy cholesterol levels due to its beta-glucan content.

A 2014 review determined that oatmeal can reduce total cholesterol levels if people consume 3 grams (g) or more of beta-glucan a day.

According to the research, beta glucan decreased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or bad cholesterol, but did not affect high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or good cholesterol.

The beta-glucan in oatmeal forms a gel-like substance when it mixes with water. This solution coats the stomach and digestive tract.

The coating feeds good bacteria in the gut, which increases their growth rate and can contribute to a healthy gut.

A small study examining oatmeals effect on bacterial growth found that it could have a positive effect.

Oatmeal is rich in soluble fiber, so people tend to feel full more quickly after eating it than they do after consuming other foods.

Feeling full can help a person reduce their portion size and achieve their weight loss goals.

Researchers looking at the effect of oatmeal on appetite concluded that it increased fullness and decreased the desire to eat for the next 4 hours.

Asthma is a common condition that often develops during childhood. There is some evidence to suggest that specific foods can be a risk factor for developing asthma, while others may reduce the risk.

For example, a study of 3,781 children determined that those who ate oats as one of their first foods were less likely to develop asthma by the age of 5 years. Other foods that may reduce the risk include:

• wheat
• rye
• barley cereals
• fish
• eggs

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem that affects almost everyone at some point.

The fiber in oatmeal can help keep waste in the gastrointestinal tract moving, which can relieve or prevent constipation.

Oatmeal includes several key nutrients.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, one cup of cooked oatmeal contains:

• 166 calories
• 5.94 g of protein
• 4.00 g of dietary fiber
• 3.56 g of fat

Oatmeal is available in several different varieties, including:

• oat groat
• steel-cut
• crushed
• rolled

Oat groat takes the longest to cook, as it comprises whole oats. Steel-cut, crushed, and rolled oats take less time to prepare.

Unless the packaging says otherwise, people can make oatmeal by boiling the oats in cows milk, plant-based milk, or water. Cooking times will vary and can range from 10 to 60 minutes.

To cook oatmeal, a person should follow the instructions on the packaging. The steps will usually involve:

• bringing 1.5 cups of milk or water to the boil
• stirring in one-half of a cup of oats
• reducing the heat to medium
• simmering for 10 to 20 minutes for steel-cut, crushed, or rolled oats
• simmering for 50 to 60 minutes for oat groat
• stirring in additional optional ingredients, such as spices or sweeteners

Although instant varieties of oatmeal usually cook very quickly, they are also the most processed. Instant oatmeal often contains added sugar and preservatives.

Oatmeal is one of the most nutritious breakfast foods. It may help a person lose weight, reduce their risk of heart disease, and lower their blood sugar levels.

It is best to choose varieties of oatmeal that are less processed and to limit added sugars.

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.

Summary

Oats 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 beta-glucan.

Oats are also a good source of high quality protein, with a good balance of essential amino acids.

Oats are loaded with important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant plant compounds.

Half a cup (40.5 g) of dry oats contains:

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

Summary

Oats 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 avenanthramides, which are almost solely found in oats.

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, avenanthramides have anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effects.

Summary

Oats 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:

Summary

Oats 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.

Summary

Oats 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.

Summary

Due 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 may help you eat fewer calories and lose weight.

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.

Summary

Oatmeal 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 treatment of itch and irritation in various skin conditions.

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.

Summary

Colloidal 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

Asthma is the most common chronic condition in kids.

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.

Research indicates that early introduction of oats, for example, may actually protect children from developing asthma.

But whether oats can help prevent asthma development in children is still debated.

Summary

Some 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 16 out of 100 adults and about 33 out of 100 adults who are ages 60 and over.

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.

Summary

Studies 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.

Summary

Oats 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 5.3 g of protein.

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.

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