Overnight oats: A nutritious shortcut to a healthier morning
The benefits of regularly consuming oats are numerous. It’s an excellent way to start the day because oats satisfy hunger, boost energy, and support concentration. If preparing oats is too much for your busy morning schedule, try an overnight oats recipe.
Overnight oats are becoming increasingly popular, although some remain sceptical about this preparation method. The oats are soaked in a liquid of your choice and left overnight to soften. This way, the oats are ready to eat in the morning without any cooking, and you just need to add your favourite flavours. Discover why this method of preparing oats is worthwhile.
Is overnight oatmeal healthy?
The base of overnight oats is raw oats that have not been heat-treated. In the evening, they are soaked in a liquid (such as water, juice, milk, or a plant-based beverage) and are left to sit overnight—hence the name of this dish. The next day, the oats are soft and ready to eat without prior cooking, which might raise concerns for some. However, these concerns are unfounded as oats are usually pre-steamed and heated to eliminate any harmful pathogens, making them safe to consume without cooking.
It’s also worth noting that prolonged cooking of oats can lead to a loss of their nutritional value, particularly vitamins. Overcooked oats not only look less appetising but also lose a substantial portion of their beneficial properties. Eating raw oats is possible regardless of their type. Nonetheless, it’s important to be aware that raw oats are high in fibre and can be quite difficult to digest.
Why should you eat overnight oatmeal for breakfast?
Oats are not only an excellent source of protein but also rich in healthy amino acids. By eating oats for breakfast, we provide our body with the amino acids necessary for proper functioning. Oats also provide vitamin B6, which supports memory and concentration and prevents anaemia, as well as vitamins B1 and pantothenic acid, which counteract fatigue and irritability and improve the condition of the skin, hair, and nails.
Oats contain beta-glucan, which has prebiotic properties, meaning it serves as food for beneficial bacteria living in the intestines. The bacteria in the intestines partially break down beta-glucan, leading to the formation of organic acids essential for the proper functioning of the colon and the immune system.
Moreover, eating overnight oats can help combat high blood pressure. The fibre content in oats can enhance vascular function, thereby supporting heart health and circulation. Additionally, the antioxidants present in oats widen and relax blood vessels, assisting in the prevention of hypertension.
