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There’s something comforting about a hearty bowl of oatmeal in the morning, right?
Not only is oatmeal a healthy superfood, but it also curbs cravings and suppresses your appetite. Love it any time of day? Even better! This popular whole grain has plenty of benefits, and we’ve rounded up 7 of the best.
1) It Helps Lower Cholesterol
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Oatmeal contains beta-glucan, which decreases low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol.
A review of research shows that consuming 3 grams or more of beta-glucan per day through oatmeal can help reduce cholesterol levels.
2) It Reduces Your Stroke and Heart Attack Risk
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Not only does oatmeal help improve cholesterol levels, but studies show the fiber in oatmeal can lower your risk of strokes and heart attacks, too!
Oat bran contains even more fiber than oatmeal, making it another great choice to keep your heart healthy.
3) It’s a Great Antioxidant Source
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Oatmeal is full of antioxidants that help prevent cell damage.
Specifically, oats are the only food to contain a unique group of antioxidants called avenanthramides, which may protect against heart disease and help lower blood pressure. They can also improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
4) It Energizes You
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Oatmeal is a low glycemic food, giving you more energy and helping you feel fuller longer.
Research has found that people who consume a low-glycemic meal like oatmeal before a run have much better endurance than those who eat a high-glycemic meal.
5) It Promotes Healthy Blood Pressure
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Oatmeal is a great breakfast choice to help lower your blood pressure naturally.
One study found that people with high blood pressure who ate oatmeal were twice as likely to either stop their blood pressure medication or cut it in half! The biggest benefit came from cooked (non-instant) organic oatmeal.
6) It Can Help You Lose Weight
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Oatmeal can help suppress excess cravings!
A study published in Nutrition Journal found that eating a bowl of instant or old-fashioned oatmeal for breakfast improved appetite control over four hours compared to an oat-based cereal.
Oatmeal can help with weight loss by reducing your likelihood of grabbing a snack or overeating at your next meal.
7) It’s Good For Your Gut
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Oatmeal contains soluble and insoluble fiber that helps improve gut health and add bulk to your stool, which helps relieve constipation and keeps you regular.
Oatmeal’s fiber content can also act as a prebiotic, which promotes healthy bacteria in your gut and reduces the risk of digestive issues and inflammation.
14 Health Benefits of Cucumbers (And a Few Refreshing Recipes)
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From healthy skin to improved memory, check out the top 14 health benefits of cucumbers!
And if you’re lucky enough to have a load from your garden or farmers market on hand, you’ll definitely want to check out some of our favorite cucumber recipes, too.
14 Health Benefits of Cucumbers (And a Few Refreshing Recipes)
21 Healthy Quinoa Recipes You’ll Want to Make ASAP
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On the hunt for the best quinoa recipes? We don’t blame you! Quinoa—an edible seed and plant-based protein—is known for being a nutritional powerhouse and easy to incorporate into any meal needing a healthy boost.
Check out our favorite quinoa recipes that are so delicious, you’ll forget how healthy they are!
21 Healthy Quinoa Recipes You’ll Want to Make ASAP
5 Powerful Health Benefits of Artichokes (+ 7 Yummy Recipes!)
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Whether you’re looking for a reason to add artichokes to your diet once and for all or just another reason to keep eating them, you’ll definitely want to check out their best health benefits!
Plus, we’ve added some delightful recipes to try.
5 Powerful Health Benefits of Artichokes (+ 7 Yummy Recipes!)
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