THE HEART-HEALTHY POWER OF OATS
The science behind the grain: Discover why it’s nature’s superfood
Life is really busy, right? Especially when you’re juggling work, family, and a million other commitments. It’s no wonder grabbing a pie from the local service station feels easier than whipping up a healthy breakfast. However, there is a timeless solution that fits perfectly into any busy life: oats. This small grain is a global breakfast tradition that has quietly supported our health and well-being for generations, offering a simple yet powerful way to nourish our bodies.
The Oats Advantage
As World Heart Day approaches on 29th September, it’s a fitting time to acknowledge the role of oats in combating heart disease – the world’s leading cause of death which claims 225 South African lives daily. According to South Africa’s Heart and Stroke Foundation, 80% of these deaths could be prevented with lifestyle modifications and a heart-healthy diet. Sonal Ratan, a Dietitian at FUTURELIFE®, explains that oats could potentially transform your health, one bowl at a time as it offers tangible health benefits, particularly for your heart, when consumed daily.
The Beta-Glucan Factor
“Beyond their warmth and simplicity, oats are more than a comforting breakfast. They are a nutritional powerhouse, particularly when it comes to heart health,” says Ratan. “That’s because they are packed with beta-glucan, a type of soluble fibre that’s been proven to lower cholesterol.”
Ratan explains that beta-glucan acts like a sponge in your digestive system, absorbing your ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol and removing it from your body. This is a win for South Africans as many of us suffer from high cholesterol, a leading risk factor for heart disease. The beta-glucan in oats can play a pivotal role in combating this.
“Studies have shown that consuming just 3 grams of beta-glucan per day can lower your LDL cholesterol by up to 10%, reducing the build-up of plaque in the arteries and lowering the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes,” she states.
A Heart’s Best Friend
While the cholesterol-lowering effects of oats are impressive, they can also offer a range of other heart health benefits. Ratan elaborates: “Oats are rich in antioxidants, compounds that help reduce inflammation. They may also protect against atherosclerosis, the hardening and narrowing of the arteries.”
She adds that the high fibre content of oats may contribute to weight management and blood sugar control, both crucial in maintaining heart health. “For South Africans struggling with obesity or diabetes, which are both significant risk factors for heart disease, oats can be a game-changer.”
Modern Twist, Classic Nutrition
Ratan notes that in an era where we are constantly bombarded with health advice, it’s good to remember that often the simplest choices are the best. “Incorporating oats into your diet couldn’t be easier,” she says. “Whether you opt for a quick bowl of creamy porridge or prefer them in a modern smoothie, baked goods or soups and stews, their adaptability makes it easy to fit into your daily routine.”
For example, FUTURELIFE®’s Instant Oats Classic is high in fibre and a natural source of beta-glucans, and it’s approved as part of the Heart and Stroke Foundation eating plan. It is also scientifically formulated with a blend of targeted minerals that contribute to immune support and contains zero added sugar. FUTURELIFE® Instant Oats Classic has a texture closer to traditional oats while offering the convenience of quick and easy instant oats preparation – just add boiling water and it’s ready in one minute!
And, if you are looking for something a little different to traditional oats, Ratan recommends trying FUTURELIFE®’s Instant Oats with Ancient Grains. It’s available in a variety of delicious flavours and combines the goodness of oats, as well as the inherent goodness of four other grains. “Incorporating these wholesome warriors into your everyday diet is one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take towards a healthier heart and a healthier you,” she concludes.