Oats

The oat (Avena sativa), sometimes called the common oat, is a species of cereal grain grown for its seed, which is known by the same name (usually in the plural, unlike other cereals and pseudocereals). While oats are suitable for human consumption as oatmeal and rolled oats, one of the most common uses is as livestock feed.

Benefits of oats
(A) Reduces Cholesterol:
A soluble fiber found in oats called beta-glucan has been found to work effectively in lowering LDL or “bad” cholesterol level in blood without affecting the HDL or “good” cholesterol level.

(B) Controls Blood Pressure:
Although, high blood pressure itself has no symptoms, but it can lead to serious damage of the heart, arteries and blood vessels and lead to various other serious complications. But a daily serving of oats rich in soluble and half soluble fibers helps reduce hypertension, high blood pressure and also the intake of anti-hypertensive medicines.

(C) Helps Weight Loss:
.Oats being very low in calories (147/cup) does not add extra fat to the body and the high fiber content in oats absorbs water and provides a high level of satiety helping stay full for a longer time and keeping hunger at day.

(D) Improves Defense of Immune System:
The soluble fibers called beta-glucan found in oats enhance the defense of immune system against bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses.  It speeds up immune system’s response to infections.

    BY DEEPU KUMAR

M.Sc. 1^ST SEMESTER