Advantages of Avena Sativa (Oat)
Avena sativa, also known as oatmeal, is a cereal that can be included as part of a healthy diet. Oatmeal plays a crucial role in promoting health in humans. This is because it contains compounds that have certain medicinal properties. Some of these compounds are calcium, iron, and amino acids such as lysine and methionine. In addition to this, oats also contain alkaloids, starch, iron, vitamins, and flavonoids that play a vital role in maintaining health. Here are some of the top health benefits oatmeal has to offer:
Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
One of the benefits of oatmeal is that it can help slow the progress of osteoporosis in women. The consumption of oat straw can increase the level of hormones that can stimulate the growth of bone cells. This can help replenish bone cells that were destroyed due to osteoporosis. Also, if consumed before the onset of the condition, avena sativa may help prevent osteoporosis. Oatmeal also contains two minerals, magnesium and potassium, which help promote bone health.
Reduction of triglyceride and cholesterol levels
Another of the health benefits offered by avena sativa is its ability to reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the blood. In addition to this, avena sativa can also lower serum cholesterol. The benefit of lowering triglyceride and cholesterol levels is that it reduces the risk of stroke and heart disease. When consumed on a regular level, oatmeal can lower overall lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein (also called LDL or bad cholesterol) levels. In addition, the fiber in oats removes this cholesterol when it is in the digestive tract without affecting high-density cholesterol (also known as good cholesterol). The reduction of LDL is favored by the antioxidants in oats.
fighting cancer
Oats contain lignans, a plant chemical that has the ability to reduce cancer risk. Some of these cancers are those of the prostate, ovaries, uterus and breast. Lignan does this by lowering estrogen levels. The cancer-fighting ability of oats is enhanced by the high level of fiber it contains. Studies indicate that insoluble fibers tend to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by reducing carcinogens in the tract.
Reduction of symptoms related to menopause
Avena sativa has compounds that calm and sedate both the nervous system and the brain. Because of this, oatmeal is able to reduce hot flashes and anxiety that can include PMS. It is also capable of relieving insomnia and fatigue.
non-addictive features
Another benefit of oatmeal is that it can help kick addiction. This is due to its sedative property that calms and reduces anxiety related to the withdrawal of addictive substances. Some of the substances from which avena sativa can help overcome addiction are opium, cigarette and morphine.
Treatment of skin conditions.
Avena sativa has the ability to reduce skin dryness and inflammation, two hallmarks of skin problems. Its anti-inflammatory property is provided by the silicon in oat straw. Two skin conditions that oatmeal can help treat are psoriasis and eczema. Avena sativa helps promote skin health by keeping it hydrated.
Additional benefits
• Oatmeal can help control blood sugar levels in the body by slowing down digestion. This prevents blood sugar levels from spiking.
• When eaten about an hour before physical activity, oatmeal can improve athletic performance and metabolism.
• Because oatmeal contains fiber, it can keep you feeling full relatively quickly and for longer after a meal. In this way, you can prevent weight gain that can occur due to overeating.