A leading nutritionist has suggested that a 90p superfood could revolutionise your diet thanks to its extensive health benefits. Louise Pyne, a registered nutritionist, health specialist, and influencer, has challenged the notion that oats are just a dull breakfast option, pointing out the abundance of vitamins they contain which bolster the immune system and prepare the body for the day ahead.
Speaking to The Standard, Pyne said that oats are “brimming with energising B vitamins which help to support feel-good energy levels”. She added: “A bowl of the stuff is a fibre-packed alternative to sugary cereals and granola – and feels like a warm big cuddle on a cold, wet morning.”
To emphasise her example and the ease with which someone can buy the product, she highlighted that at Morrisons, a 1kg bag of oats costs only 90p and can last up to two years in the pantry without spoiling.
Additionally, while some may find oats a tad bland, Pyne suggested making them more appealing by adding some fruity toppings for a “dopamine boost”, reported Surrey Live.
Weren’t oats branded as junk food last year?
Despite being somewhat controversially branded as “junk food” by the SNP in new advertising policies implemented last autumn, nutrition specialists have continued to endorse eating oats, assuring the public that they remain a nutritious choice not to be neglected.
Nutrition expert and writer Tina Lond-Cauk shared her insights with Women’s Health. She said: “Let’s set the record straight – oats really are fantastic for our health. Oats are rich in soluble fibre, particularly beta-glucans which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
“They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, and iron.”
Do I have to eat oats or are their any alternatives?
While oats are a popular and tasty breakfast choice for many, they might not appeal to everyone’s palate. For individuals seeking different foods that also contribute to cholesterol reduction, there are several options available.
A scientific review in the British Journal of Nutrition praised the virtues of plant sterols and stanols found in products like milk and yoghurts.
The review concluded: “It’s thought that, because plant sterols and stanols have a similar structure to cholesterol, they reduce the amount of cholesterol absorbed by the gut, which lowers your cholesterol blood levels.”
Other choices include consuming oily fish to boost heart health, or even garlic, although experts consistently advise consulting with a GP before making any significant changes to your diet.