7 Benefits of Eating Oatmeal for Breakfast, According to a Nutrition Expert

1 day ago 7

CANTIKA.COM, Jakarta - Oatmeal is one of the breakfast choices for many people. In addition to being warm and filling, oatmeal can be combined with various toppings such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. What about its nutritional content?

According to nutrition and diet expert Lauren Manaker, there are many benefits of eating oatmeal for breakfast. Here are some of them.

1. Keeps You Full Longer

Oatmeal is rich in soluble fiber, which absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance in the stomach, slowing down digestion. "This helps to feel full longer, reducing the desire to snack between meals," Manaker said as quoted from the Eatthisnotthat page, on Saturday, May 24, 2025.

2. Promotes Digestive Health

The high fiber content in oatmeal supports healthy bowel movements and helps reduce the risk of constipation. This advantage improves overall digestive health by ensuring that food moves smoothly through the digestive tract.

3. Helps Lower Cholesterol

High cholesterol increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Eating oatmeal for breakfast can help lower it.

"Beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber in oatmeal, helps lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels by binding cholesterol in the intestines and preventing its absorption into the bloodstream," Manaker said.

4. Supports Good Gut Bacteria

Prebiotics enhance the health and growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Oatmeal acts as a prebiotic, feeding good bacteria in the gut. A healthy gut microbiome improves digestion, immunity, and overall health.

5. Helps Maintain Weight

Oatmeal is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent food for weight control. Oatmeal keeps us full longer, reducing overeating and unnecessary calorie intake.

6. Supports Blood Sugar Balance

Blood sugar or glucose is the body's primary energy source. Slowly digested carbohydrates in oatmeal prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels. "This is especially beneficial for individuals managing diabetes or insulin resistance," added Manaker.

7. Promotes Healthy Skin

You may have used skincare products containing oatmeal in the form of soap, scrub, or mask, but did you know that consuming it can also benefit the skin?

"Oatmeal contains compounds like avenanthramides that reduce skin inflammation and irritation," Manaker said.

8. Relieves Constipation

Eating oatmeal can soften stools and make it easier for the body to move. The insoluble fiber in oatmeal adds volume to stools and improves bowel movement consistency. "This natural laxative effect helps keep the digestive system regular," Manaker said.

Editor's Choice: 7 Most Popular Avocado Varieties in the World

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News

Late-Night Cravings? These 4 Foods Could Be Wrecking Your Health

46 hari lalu

Late-Night Cravings? These 4 Foods Could Be Wrecking Your Health

To stay healthy and lower stroke risk, avoid eating after 9 PM and limit these types of foods that disrupt digestion and sleep.

UNESCO Urges Schools to Prioritize Nutritional Value of School Meals

48 hari lalu

UNESCO Urges Schools to Prioritize Nutritional Value of School Meals

UNESCO urges governments to prioritize fresh, minimally processed foods and integrate food education into school curricula.

Eid Without Worries: 8 Smart Eating Tips to Keep Health Complications Away

55 hari lalu

Eid Without Worries: 8 Smart Eating Tips to Keep Health Complications Away

Manage a smart, healthy eating pattern during Eid to prevent health complications and enjoy the celebration comfortably and safely.

Interesting Facts About Durian, Its Trees Can Live Up to 100 Years

9 Maret 2025

Interesting Facts About Durian, Its Trees Can Live Up to 100 Years

Get to know the interesting facts about durian. Despite its delicious taste, durian has a high calorie content, which can lead to weight gain if consumed excessively.

Lemon Water for Weight Loss: Fact or Fiction?

14 Februari 2025