This article was first written as a collaboration with White’s Oats for the White’s Oats Blog.
While the beauty of a bowl of porridge is in its simplicity, there’s now another reason to love this most wholesome of grains – according to a study by Harvard University, people who eat plenty of oats and other wholegrains live longer and are less likely to die from heart disease.
Originally hailing from Scotland, I love oats & they are a stapel in my family kitchen today. I’ve teamed up with White’s Oats to break down the science behind our health & longevity, and guide us through the benefits of the unassuming oat.
Wholegrains such as oats offer various health benefits and research suggests they may even be key to living longer. Chia, quinoa and other exotic sounding ingredients all too often have the monopoly on the coveted 'superfood' title, however, endless studies put the humble oat right up there with more pricey health boosters. The cereal grain's proven talents include helping to lower high blood pressure and reduce bad cholesterol- not to mention an impressive line up of vitamins, minerals and fibre.
The health benefits of oats are broad and attributed to their unique, yet well balanced nutritional profile. A source of carbohydrates, they contain quality low cost, plant based protein (around 11-15%) with good amino acid composition. Oats are also a good source of unsaturated (the good kind) fats, containing much higher levels than other cereals.
The go to fitness food for beginners and athletes alike, a bowl of porridge with its slow releasing , wholegrain goodness an hour before exercise ensures blood sugar levels remain steady through a workout, while providing enough energy to keep you going. A daily intake of about 3 servings of wholegrains is enough to be beneficial- but just don't settle for any old oat because not all oats are created equal, especially jumbo organic oats which stand head and shoulders above the rest for fibre & flavour. Hearty and delicious organic oat flakes are gently steamed and rolled for a supremely creamy taste and hearty texture. While they are larger in size, they also have a greater nutrient profile and a lower GI than many of the quick cooking instant porridge oats.
White's has over 175 years of heritage, expertise, craft and passion crammed into every single oat kernel. It's this care and uncompromising quality that delivers the distinctive texture and creamy taste of White's Oats, which are also high in fibre, naturally low in saturated fat and with no added salt.