Rolled oats are a main ingredient in our best-selling product, oatballs! Here is more information about why you should consume oats, including:

  • Nutritional Benefits
  • Sourcing Considerations
  • Health Applications
  • Contraindications

Nutritional Benefits

Rolled oats, a whole grain food, are a rich source of essential nutrients. A 100-gram serving of rolled oats provides approximately:

  • Calories: 389
  • Protein: 16.9 grams
  • Fiber: 10.6 grams
  • Fat: 6.9 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 66.3 grams
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): 1.4 mg (127% DV)
  • Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid): 1.4 mg (14% DV)
  • Magnesium: 61 mg (15% DV)
  • Phosphorus: 420 mg (42% DV)
  • Copper: 0.6 mg (30% DV)
  • Manganese: 3.4 mg (170% DV)
  • Iron: 4.7 mg (26% DV)
  • Zinc: 2.5 mg (17% DV)

Rolled oats are also an excellent source of beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control (1). Additionally, oats contain antioxidants, such as avenanthramides, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties (2).

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Sourcing Considerations

When sourcing rolled oats, consider the following:

  1. Purity: Ensure the oats are pure and have not been contaminated with gluten during processing. This is particularly important for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
  2. Organic: Opt for organic rolled oats to avoid pesticides and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Although oats are not typically genetically modified, they may be contaminated with GMOs during processing or storage.
  3. Steel-cut vs. Rolled: Rolled oats are steamed and rolled flat, which reduces cooking time but also slightly reduces the fiber and nutrient content due to the heat treatment. Steel-cut oats, on the other hand, are simply sliced and have a slightly higher nutritional content but take longer to cook.

Specific Health Conditions that May Improve

  1. Heart Health: The beta-glucan fiber in rolled oats can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease (3).
  2. Blood Sugar Control: The soluble fiber in rolled oats can slow down the absorption of glucose, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity (4).
  3. Gut Health: The fiber in rolled oats feeds beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy gut microbiome (5).
  4. Weight Management: The fiber and protein in rolled oats can promote feelings of fullness, aiding in weight management (6).

Who Should Avoid Consumption

While rolled oats are generally safe and nutritious, some individuals should avoid or be cautious when consuming them:

  1. Gluten Intolerance/Celiac Disease: Although oats are naturally gluten-free, they may be contaminated with gluten during processing. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance should opt for certified gluten-free rolled oats.
  2. Phytic Acid Intolerance: Rolled oats contain phytic acid, an antinutrient that can inhibit mineral absorption. Soaking, sprouting, or fermenting the oats before consumption can help reduce phytic acid content.
  3. Allergies: Although rare, some individuals may have an allergy to oats, which can cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions.

Conclusion

Rolled oats are a nutrient-dense, versatile whole grain that offers numerous health benefits. When sourcing rolled oats, consider purity, organic certification, and processing methods. While rolled oats are generally safe and beneficial, individuals with specific health conditions or allergies should be cautious. Incorporating rolled oats into a balanced diet can contribute to improved heart health, blood sugar control, gut health, and weight management.

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