By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
8 weight loss benefits of eating oatmeal you don't know about
fa098c5c8e6dbdb4c78dbdec7ae002e0b3da4f02d22aafe555b58cd5000b4f2e
Who would have thought oatmeal could be the key to helping you lose weight? - photo by Callie Hansen
Growing up, I always thought oatmeal was disgusting. Every time my mom made it for breakfast, I would hardly touch it. Id much rather eat Pop-tarts or even bland cereal than oatmeal. It wasn't until adulthood when I realized how much it can help with weight loss.

If youre trying to lose weight, here are eight benefits of eating oatmeal that will help you shed those extra pounds:

1. The body digests oatmeal slowly

Oatmeal sits in your stomach much longer than other foods. Because it digests so slowly, it releases specific digestive acids that keep your appetite under control and allow you to burn more calories.

2. Makes you feel fuller

Oatmeal makes you feel fuller longer. The fuller you are, the less youll eat, and the more weight youre likely to lose. Oatmeal is full of fiber and protein and healthy vitamins and minerals that make it one of the most nutrient-dense foods in existence. So, why not eat more of it?

3. Itll prevent you from unhealthy cravings

When you're full, youre less likely to crave unhealthy foods. By lunchtime, your body will still be trying to digest the oatmeal from breakfast. Youll therefore have a smaller lunch, and a smaller dinner which will allow you to shed more pounds.

4. Low calorie intake

Oatmeal is low-calorie. Serving sizes vary, but an average bowl of oatmeal is only 150 calories. When youre eating less calories for more food, you will definitely be on the right track to losing weight.

5. Its packed with fiber

Fiber is one of the body's most important nutrients, as it aids the digestive system. Oatmeal contains one of the most powerful fibers: beta-glucan. Beta-glucan is an important nutrient that helps fight high-cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, cancer and HIV/AIDS.

6. It keeps your blood sugar levels steady

Oatmeal keeps your blood sugar levels steady. For those who are overweight or have Type 2 diabetes, oatmeal is a literal life-saver when it comes to reducing high blood sugar. Once again, this is due to beta-glucan that improves insulin's solubility that reduces glucose levels.

7. Lowers your cholesterol

Its true, whole-grain oats help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Of course, this is all dependent on a well-balanced diet, and eating oatmeal is a key component of eating healthy.

8. It boosts your energy

With a fuller stomach, a nutrient-filled body and a healthier heart, your energy is sure to improve after eating oatmeal. And more energy will allow you motivate you to do the things you love. Youll be able to think clearly, run faster and simply have the energy to keep up with life.

Implementing oatmeal or other oat-filled meals into your diet seems is healthy for your body and will surely help you to lose the weight you want.