Oatmeal For Energy

If you want loads of energy, a healthy heart, and a trim and fit body, you can’t go wrong with making oatmeal in the morning a positive habit.

Healthy Heart

A study published June 3, 1999, by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), reinforced the fact that women can reduce their risk of heart disease by eating soluble fiber from cereals such as oatmeal. "The Nurses Health Study reported in JAMA is very important because it provides women with effective and practical information on how to reduce the risk for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for women in this country," said Dr. Steve Ink, director of Nutrition Services, The Quaker Oats Company


"The early results from these ongoing studies indicate that certain soluble fiber-containing grains – like oats – may work to lower risk for heart disease in several important ways." Daily consumption (five or more servings per week) of cold breakfast cereals reduced the risk for heart disease in women by 19 %, while oatmeal consumption reduced the risk for heart disease by 29 %," investigators at Pennsylvania State University, reported.

Long-Lasting Energy

Do you want to have sustained energy all day? Who doesn’t? New research published in the Journal of Applied Physiology shows that oatmeal provides a slow-burning, sustained energy that lasts into the day. "Because oatmeal is rich in soluble fiber, its energy is released into the body slowly," said John Kirwan of the Noll Physiological Research Center at Pennsylvania State University, the study’s author. "This gradual release helps conserve the body’s energy stores during an active day, unlike a more rapidly-absorbed carbohydrate meal, which may leave you feeling tired soon after eating."

Another benefit that oatmeal provides in your quest for a trim and fit body and a healthy heart is that it is extremely filling. Start off your day with a bowl of oatmeal, and you will be less likely to snack before lunchtime.



- Here are some tips for making oatmeal even more nutritious and healthy for you:


- Stir in a small amount of good fats – almond or cashew butter.
  

- Try adding all-natural apple sauce for a sweeter flavor or add 100% fruit spread. ( berries have many health  benefits )       


- Add a tablespoon of soy protein after cooking and get the combined benefits of soy and oats.

Just because it's summer doesn't mean you can't eat oatmeal for breakfast. Some people think that oatmeal can only be eaten hot. I beg to differ. Oatmeal can be eaten cold, at room temperature ( my favorite ) or hot.

Find out what suits you best and give it a blast.

To your awesome health.

Joyce Hearn