Nutritionists agree that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It should be packed with healthy, flavorful ingredients. Make sure you pick the right foods, and enjoy the energy boost through the day.
Some people believe that skipping breakfast is the fastest way to lose weight. This is absolutely wrong, because you will be a “victim” of unhealthy cravings all day long.
According to a recent study, oatmeal is the healthiest breakfast you can ever have. The results of the study were published in the Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism. The study involved 36 men and women, and they were split in 3 groups.
Each of the participants was supposed to eat 350 calories a day. The first group had oatmeal, the second cornflakes, and the last group only had water for breakfast. They all had the same lunch options.
Experts measured the levels of satiety in each individual in the next three hours. Blood sugar and insulin levels were also checked.
Participants in the first groups had less cravings than other individuals tested, and ate 31% less calories for lunch. Oatmeal showed to be the healthiest option for obese, because they ate 50% less calories for lunch.
Participants in group 2 and 3 had to eat something after 3 hours. Oatmeal “spends more time” in your stomach. Cornflakes cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
These results were confirmed in other studies. Oatmeal promotes weight loss, and reduces the intake of calories by 31-50%. You can add oats to your meals, side dishes, stews, salads, and desserts.
Fiber in oats prevents cravings, and keeps you full for longer. It enhances digestion, and helps you lose weight.
- Blood pressure
Lignan in oats regulates blood pressure by 30%. Of course, you have to eat oats more often to notice any improvement.
Fiber in oats attaches to fats, and reduces bad cholesterol levels. Oatmeal reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
According to a study published in the British Medical Journal, nutrients in oats reduce the risk of colon, breast, prostate and ovarian cancer.