Eating oatmeal is greatly beneficial to overall health. That is why, oatmeal should become a staple on everyone’s breakfast table. Here is the breakdown of oatmeal’s magic on various body’s systems:
1. Cardio-vascular system (heart and vessels)–oatmeal consumption is linked with lowering LDL (bad cholesterol). With good cholesterol, there is less chance of developing cardiovascular disease, which can lead to heart attack or stroke.
2. Gastrointestinal system (stomach and intestines)–oatmeal has high fiber content, which increases motility through the intestines and prevents constipation. By lessening contact time of toxins with the GI tract, the risk of developing colon cancer decreases as well.
3. Integumentary system (skin, hair, nails)–good skin begins with good diet and since oatmeal is protein rich and high in fiber, it is a great way to nourish and remove toxins. Also, oatmeal works great as a topical remedy and can be used as facial masks and hot bath soaks.
4. Nervous system–oatmeal is especially rich in tryptophan, a chemical that is a precursor to serotonin. Adequate amounts of serotonin have been linked in improving seasonal affective disorder, symptoms of PMS. Ithas been noted to be a mood enhancement as well as effect amplifier of antidepressant medications.
5. Endocrine system–oatmeal helps to regulate blood sugar and prolong sense of satiety. By preventing ups and downs in blood sugar the risk of obesity and diabetes also decreases.
7. Muscular system–oatmeal is rich in protein and can work as a protein delivery system when one sprinkles nuts or flax seeds, or a scoop of protein powder, over a bowl of plain oatmeal. It is a great pre-workout food.
8. Skeletal system–oatmeal mixed with milk or almond milk (my favorite) both are rich in calcium. Adequate calcium is essential for strong bones and osteoporosis prevention.
9. Reproductive system–some studies claim that oatmeal can help to balance testosterone and estrogen and improve libido.
Oatmeal is inexpensive and easy to make plus there are endless variations on a basic oatmeal recipe. Steer clear of any pre-packaged portioned oatmeal. Instead, choose only steel-cut oats because they are the least processed and therefore have highest nutritional value and lowest glycemic index.