“Oat groats are the healthiest way to eat oats. Quick oats, rolled oats and steel-cut oats all start out as oat groats,” says Gentile. “Oat groats are whole oat kernels that have been cleaned and treated with heat and moisture. This increases shelf life, flavor development, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity.
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. They’re also often included in muffins, granola bars, cookies and other baked goods.
What kind of oats should I buy?
Ultimately, the type of oat you choose is completely up to you. If you prefer a sweet, nutty taste and chewy consistency, try steel-cut oats. If you like your oatmeal creamy and smooth, then instant oats are your game. And if time is a factor, instant oats make a perfectly suitable healthy breakfast or quick energizing snack.
Regular rolled oats or jumbo oats are best. These type of oats have been steamed and rolled from the oat ‘groat’. Rolled oats soak up the milky liquids overnight and become creamy without turning mushy.
Some think that from steel-cut oats to old-fashioned rolled oats to whole oat groats, there’s a plethora of oats to choose from on grocery store shelves. The ultimate question is, which one is the most nutritious?
When buying oatmeal, always check the ingredient list. No matter the type, there should only be one ingredient listed—whole-grain oats. Be wary of flavored instant oatmeal, as it can pack added sugars, extra sodium, and artificial ingredients.
Is oatmeal good for You?
They found that kids who ate oatmeal had overall better nutrient intake, diet quality, and a lower risk for obesity, which was again attributed to the fiber and beta-glucan content of oats. May help lower high cholesterol. You might have seen “heart healthy” labels on oatmeal and oat products at the grocery store.
It’s no secret that oatmeal is part of a healthy and balanced diet. However, of all the healthy whole grains out there, oatmeal seems to be one of the most complex. From steel-cut oats to old-fashioned rolled oats to whole oat groats, there’s a plethora of oats to choose from on grocery store shelves.
What is the nutritional value of oats?
Oats Are Incredibly Nutritious The nutrient composition of oats is well-balanced. They are a good source of carbs and fiber, including the powerful fiber beta-glucan ( 1, 2, 3 ). They also contain more protein and fat than most grains ( 4 ). Oats are loaded with important vitamins, minerals and antioxidant plant compounds.
What are the health benefits of rolled oats?
Oats are also a surprisingly high source of plant-based protein. You’ll find 15 grams in a 1 ½ cup bowl of prepared rolled oats, which provides about one-quarter of an average 160-pound person’s daily requirement. So your morning oatmeal can clear you out, like a Roomba for your intestines, feed your hungry microbiome, and help pump you up!