CANTIKA.COM, Jakarta - Oatmeal is one of the breakfast choices for many people. In addition to being warm and filling, oatmeal can be combined with various toppings such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. What about its nutritional content?
According to nutrition and diet expert Lauren Manaker, there are many benefits of eating oatmeal for breakfast. Here are some of them.
1. Keeps You Full Longer
Oatmeal is rich in soluble fiber, which absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance in the stomach, slowing down digestion. "This helps to feel full longer, reducing the desire to snack between meals," Manaker said as quoted from the Eatthisnotthat page, on Saturday, May 24, 2025.
2. Promotes Digestive Health
The high fiber content in oatmeal supports healthy bowel movements and helps reduce the risk of constipation. This advantage improves overall digestive health by ensuring that food moves smoothly through the digestive tract.
3. Helps Lower Cholesterol
High cholesterol increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Eating oatmeal for breakfast can help lower it.
"Beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber in oatmeal, helps lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels by binding cholesterol in the intestines and preventing its absorption into the bloodstream," Manaker said.
4. Supports Good Gut Bacteria
Prebiotics enhance the health and growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Oatmeal acts as a prebiotic, feeding good bacteria in the gut. A healthy gut microbiome improves digestion, immunity, and overall health.
5. Helps Maintain Weight
Oatmeal is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent food for weight control. Oatmeal keeps us full longer, reducing overeating and unnecessary calorie intake.
6. Supports Blood Sugar Balance
Blood sugar or glucose is the body's primary energy source. Slowly digested carbohydrates in oatmeal prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels. "This is especially beneficial for individuals managing diabetes or insulin resistance," added Manaker.
7. Promotes Healthy Skin
You may have used skincare products containing oatmeal in the form of soap, scrub, or mask, but did you know that consuming it can also benefit the skin?
"Oatmeal contains compounds like avenanthramides that reduce skin inflammation and irritation," Manaker said.
8. Relieves Constipation
Eating oatmeal can soften stools and make it easier for the body to move. The insoluble fiber in oatmeal adds volume to stools and improves bowel movement consistency. "This natural laxative effect helps keep the digestive system regular," Manaker said.