If youve ever sat down to a steamy bowl of oatmeal on a chilly winter morning, you know how good it makes you feel. Oatmeal is a simple food. A porridge-like cereal its made of either rolled oats, which is used in the instant variety, or whole cracked oats, which takes longer to cook but may be even more delicious. It depends on your taste. You can customize your bowl of oatmeal with cinnamon, maple syrup, milk, butter, nuts, raisins, various fruits; whatever you find tempting. No matter how you fix it, oatmeal is not only a delicious way to start the day, but its packed with a wide range of health and beauty benefits.
Here are some ways oatmeal makes you feel better.
Reduces cholesterol. Oatmeal contains betaglucan which is a soluble fiber that has been proven in studies to lower so-called bad cholesterol.
Helps you drop pounds. Theres not only fiber in the cereal which helps you lose weight, but oatmeal makes you feel full; its so satisfying it reduces mid-morning cravings. Plus, a serving of plain oatmeal (1/2 cup) is only 150 calories.
Boosts your energy. Oatmeal is low in fat and calories, but it has carbohydrates. We need some carbs to keep our energy going and oatmeal packs a hefty punch. Its especially helpful in the morning to give us shot of get-up-and-go.
Lowers the risk of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, oatmeal fiber helps the body fight against toxic bile acids.
Bumps up memory. B vitamins have been proven to be important for brain health and oatmeal has lots of B6.
Curbs inflammation. Lab tests show that antioxidants in oats have anti-inflammatory properties.
Plus, it has beauty benefits. For dry skin, apply an oatmeal pack or mask. The natural, lubricating fats in oats make it a great moisturizer.
