What are Rolled Oats?

What are rolled oats? Oats have long been a champion breakfasts for families and athletes for many years. Because of their popularity, more companies are creating different varieties of oats. Nowadays, you can find everything from banana-flavored oats to instant oatmeal that cooks in minutes. Rolled oats, however, are still one of the healthiest types available. So, what are rolled oats?

What are Rolled Oats?

There are three primary types of oats available in stores, which include steel-cut, instant and rolled oats. Each are made and packaged differently, which affects their nutritional value. Steel-cut oats refer to those that have undergone minimal processing, which is why they have a firmer texture and nutty flavor. Instant oats are those that have been processed to shorten cooking time.

Rolled oats, on the other hand, offer the best of both worlds. They still have most of the nutrients that steel-cut varieties do, but have been softened to lessen cooking time as well. Rolled oats are made by harvesting whole groats, which are then steamed, flattened and dried for packaging. The steaming gives them a softer texture and makes them easier to cook.

Nutrients in Rolled Oats

One of the biggest advantages of rolled oats is that they still contain most of their original nutrient profile. They contain a lot of fiber and complex carbohydrates. Rolled oats are rich in calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, selenium and zinc. They also contain most vitamin B complex micronutrients, and have traces of many other minerals.

Rolled Oats and Digestion

One benefit of oats that is widely marketed is that they help to keep you “regular”. The term “regular” refers to normal bowel movements as a result of healthy digestion. This is a huge advantage for people with constipation and other digestion-related difficulties. The nutrient responsible for regulating your digestive process is fiber, and rolled oats has plenty of it.

Rolled Oats and Weight Loss

Instant oats might be convenient, but if you are losing weight, rolled oats are best. Rolled oats have lower calories because they don’t contain the same added sugars that instant oatmeal does. Because they are minimally processed, rolled oats have more fiber. When combined with complex carbohydrates, fiber keeps you full for a longer time to regulate your appetite.

Rolled Oats and Diabetes

If you’re struggling to find healthy breakfasts for your diabetic diet, rolled oats are an excellent option. Because rolled oats are fiber-rich and have complex carbs, they are broken down slowly into glucose. This prevents insulin spikes or dips, keeping your blood sugar normal. Vitamin B and iron provide you with the energy you need safely and naturally.

Other Health Benefits of Rolled Oats

Having rolled oats for breakfast can help those with weak bones. They provide high levels of calcium and potassium, which help strengthen both bone and muscle. Rolled oats also have selenium and zinc, which give the immune system a powerful boost to ward off diseases. Regular servings can also reduce your chances of having heart disease thanks to phosphorus and iron. Enjoy oats with milk and yoghurt for more calcium or with fruit for more vitamins.