Whole oats are high in antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols. Most notable is a unique group of antioxidants called avenanthramides, which are almost solely found in oats. Avenanthramides may help lower blood pressure levels by increasing the production of nitric oxide. This gas molecule helps dilate blood vessels and leads to better blood flow.
Oats contain large amounts of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber.
Beta-glucan partially dissolves in water and forms a thick, gel-like solution
in the gut. Moreover it reduces LDL and total cholesterol levels. Reduces blood
sugar and insulin response and increases feeling of fullness. Moreover it increases
growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. One major risk
factor is high blood cholesterol. Many studies have shown that the beta-glucan
fiber in oats is effective at reducing both total and LDL cholesterol levels.
Oxidation of LDL ("bad") cholesterol, which occurs when LDL reacts
with free radicals, is another crucial step in the progression of heart disease.
