oat flour is a type of flour that not only provides the same benefits as oat flakes or whole oats, but is also the healthiest flour available today. Until recently it was considered an ingredient exclusively for athletes, but it is now part of the healthy diet of a large number of people all over the world.
Oatmeal is a natural and abundant source of complex carbohydrates, water-soluble fibre, B vitamins, omega-6 fatty acids and some minerals. It is a truly versatile product, offering a wide variety of consumption alternatives.
How to make oatmeal
Oat flour is made by first removing the tough, fibrous husk from the cereal grains of the oats themselves. The grains are then cleaned and sorted, after which they are steamed to inactivate certain enzymes.
The next step is toasting, which reduces the moisture content and allows the oat kernels to be stored for a longer period of time. Finally, large flakes are formed, which can be used in breads or cereals, and are ground into oat flour.
Characteristics and properties of oat flour
There are many factors and characteristics that have made oatmeal one of the healthiest foods in our diet. Among the main arguments for this are the following:
- Very rich in fibre (10 grams) both soluble and insoluble
- Very low in calories (only 68 calories per 100 grams of product)
- Contains 14 grams of pure protein per 100 grams of product (12% in its composition)
- It has 66 carbohydrates per 100 grams of product (high content of slow-absorption carbohydrates that provide a great feeling of satiety)
- Oatmeal is one of the cereals with the highest vitamin content, especially vitamin E, B1, B2, B5 and B6
- Very rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc
- Contains 7 grams of fat per 100 grams of oatmeal (80% of this fat is unsaturated)
- Regulates blood cholesterol levels
- Significantly improves digestion
- Boosts metabolism
- Promotes weight loss
- Prevents constipation
Benefits of oatmeal
The benefits of whole grain oatmeal or oat powder are many and varied.Firstly, it is important to highlight its contribution to the reduction of LDL cholesterol , with all that this entails for the improvement of our cardiovascular system, reducing the probabilities of suffering from a disease of this type.
Its satiating effect and its low level of calories and carbohydrates make oatmeal one of the essential ingredients for weight reduction .
Oatmeal also has a very low glycaemic index and is assimilated slowly. This keeps sugar levels in check and reduces the chances of developing related diseases, such as diabetes.
One of the lesser-known benefits of oatmeal is its ability to strengthen the immune system. Its properties are, therefore, very beneficial for dealing with various very common illnesses in any organism, such as the flu or colds.
Oat powder of this type contains an alkaloid that helps to balance the nervous system, to the point of becoming a very beneficial ingredient for all those who suffer from depression, insomnia or stress.
It goes without saying that the high fibre content of whole grain oats is ideal for regulating intestinal transit and prolonging the feeling of satiety.
Finally, it is important to highlight the benefits that whole oats have on the skin, especially on those that are very dry and sensitive. Including a few oat flakes in the bath water makes the skin more velvety and moisturised.
What is oatmeal made of?
Oatmeal is a type of coarse flour made from hulled oat kernels (groats) that have been ground or cut with steel . Ground oats are also called "white oats".
Can oatmeal be eaten daily?
Oats also contain fibre , which is great for digestive health. If you have chronic constipation problems, eating oatmeal every morning will help . One cup of oatmeal contains four grams of fibre. You can include fruits and nuts to increase the fibre value of your breakfast.
How much oatmeal should you eat per day?
When preparing oatmeal, the recommended serving size is half a cup . For breakfast and lunch, oatmeal is the main dish. A small amount of skimmed milk and some fruit can be added or eaten on the side, as well as low-fat yoghurt.
Is oatmeal good for your stomach?
A cup of gluten-free oatmeal is the perfect remedy for an upset stomach . Oats are not only a source of fibre, but also aid digestion and stool retention.
