Last Updated: 19 September 2022
Figure 1. The Oat (i.e. Avena sativa) plant.
The Oat plant or Avena sativa, sometimes called the common oat, is a species of cereal grain grown for its seed. Oats belong to the Poaceae grass family of plants. Oats are suitable for human consumption as oatmeal and rolled oats, and it is also commonly used as livestock feed.
Oats contain diverse essential nutrients for the human body. Per 100g serving of Oats contain:
Oats are commonly used in supplement products and promoted for their cardioprotective properties. The primary type of soluble fiber in oats is Beta-Glucan, which has been proven to help slow digestion (by increasing the viscosity of digested food), increase satiety, suppress appetite, and promote bowel regularity. Beta-glucans may help to prevent sharp rises in blood sugar and insulin levels after eating a meal, and may benefit gut health as the fiber is broken down and fermented by intestinal bacteria.
Whole oats also contain plant chemicals called phenolic compounds and phytoestrogens that act as antioxidants to reduce the damaging effects of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, conditions which are often associated with cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Oats are generally well tolerated in the human body. However, while Oats do not contain gluten, they may sometimes be grown in the same fields as wheat or barley and these crops may sometimes contaminate Oats with gluten. Therefore, it is important for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease to be aware of the possibilities of cross-contamination of gluten in Oats.
Sources and Citations:
* Please be advised: always seek medical consultation if you require medical help or attention. The contents of this Codex are for educational purposes and are not intended to offer personal medical advice.
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