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 Crunchy goodness, nutty flavor, nutrient
richness, and high fiber content have long made oats a breakfast
favorite. But this natural whole grain is versatile and economical
for other cooking purposes that shouldn't be overlooked.
Regular and quick-cooking oats
are essentially interchangeable, but regular oats add chewy texture
and are ideal for granola, cookies, desserts and pie crust. Quick-cooking
oats, cut into smaller flakes during processing, are less noticeable.
Six Nutritional
Facts About Oats:
1. Oats are high in carbohydrates
for sustained energy.
2. Oats are a good source of
dietary fiber, assisting the digestive system and aiding in weight
control.
3. Oats contain water soluble
fiber, which has been shown to have beneficial effects on controlling
blood cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a low-fat,
balanced diet, according to the US Food and Drug Administration.
4. Oats are a low glycaemic index
(GI) food. Emphasizing foods with a low GI in the diet can help
people with diabetes control blood sugar levels.
5. Oats provide zinc, which is
needed for growth, reproduction and good vision, as well as being
essential for wounds to heal properly.
6. Oats also provide magnesium,
iron, the antioxidant Vitamin E and the vitamins niacin and thiamine.
A Clever Oats
Tip:
For a nuttier flavor, use toasted
oats in recipes calling for oats. To Toast, spread oats on a
baking sheet; bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes,
stirring occasionally. Toasted oats turn a plain bowl of breakfast
oatmeal into something special (a favorite in my home). Toss
in some raisins or chopped dates and watch the smiles appear
in your kitchen.
 Recipes with The Whole
Grain Goodness of Oats:
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