Avena sativa, also known as oatmeal, is a cereal that can be included as part of a healthy diet. Oats play a crucial role in promoting health in humans. This is because it contains compounds that have certain medicinal properties. Some of these compounds are calcium, iron, and amino acids like lysine and methionine. Apart from this, oats also contain alkaloids, starch, iron, vitamins and flavonoids that play a vital role in maintaining health. Here are some of the top health benefits oats offer:
Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
One of the benefits of oats is that they can help slow the progression of osteoporosis in women. Oat straw consumption can increase the level of hormones that can stimulate the growth of bone cells. This can help replace bone cells that have been destroyed by osteoporosis. Also, if consumed before the onset of the condition, avena sativa can help prevent osteoporosis. Oats also contain two minerals, magnesium and potassium, which help promote bone health.
Reduction of triglyceride and cholesterol levels
Another of the health benefits offered by avena sativa is its ability to reduce blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels. In addition to this, avena sativa can also lower serum cholesterol. The benefit of lowering triglyceride and cholesterol levels is that it reduces the risk of stroke and heart disease. When consumed on a regular level, oats can lower overall lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein (also called LDL or bad cholesterol) levels. Also, the fiber in oats removes this cholesterol when it is in the digestive tract without affecting high-density cholesterol (also known as good cholesterol). LDL reduction is favored by the antioxidants in oats.
fighting cancer
Oats contain lignans, a plant chemical that has the ability to reduce the risk of cancer. Some of these cancers are prostate, ovarian, uterine and breast. Lignan does this by lowering estrogen levels. The cancer-fighting ability of oats is enhanced by the high level of fiber it contains. Studies indicate that insoluble fibers tend to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, by reducing carcinogens in the tract.
Reduction of symptoms related to menopause
Avena sativa has compounds that calm and sedate both the nervous system and the brain. Because of this, oats are able to reduce hot flashes and anxiety that can include PMS. It is also capable of relieving insomnia and fatigue.
non-addictive features
Another benefit of oatmeal is that it can help break addiction. This is due to its sedative property that calms and reduces anxiety related to withdrawal from addictive substances. Some of the substances from which avena sativa can help overcome addiction are opium, cigarettes and morphine.
Treatment of skin conditions.
Avena sativa has the ability to reduce dryness and inflammation of the skin, two hallmarks of skin problems. Its anti-inflammatory property is provided by the silicon in oat straw. Two skin conditions that oats can help treat are psoriasis and eczema. Avena sativa helps promote skin health by keeping it hydrated.
Additional benefits
• Oats can help control blood sugar levels in the body by slowing digestion. This prevents blood sugar levels from rising sharply.
• When oatmeal is consumed approximately one hour before physical activity, it can improve athletic performance and metabolism.
• Because oats contain fiber, they can make you feel full relatively quickly and for longer after a meal. In this way, you can prevent weight gain that can occur due to overeating.