The nutrient composition of oats is well-balanced. They are a good source of carbs and fiber, including the powerful fiber beta-glucan . They are also a good source of high quality protein, with a good balance of essential amino acids. Oats are loaded with important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant plant compounds. Half a cup (78 grams) of dry oats contains .
Oats (Avena sativa) are a whole-grain cereal mainly grown in North America and Europe. They are a very good source of fiber, especially beta glucan, and are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whole oats are the only food source of avenanthramides, a unique group of antioxidants believed to protect against heart disease. Due to their many benefits, such as lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels, oats have gained considerable attention as a health food (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source, 4). They’re most commonly rolled or crushed and can be consumed as oatmeal (porridge) or used in baked goods, bread, muesli, and granola. Whole-grain oats are called oat groats. They are most commonly rolled or crushed into flat flakes and lightly toasted to produce oatmeal. Quick, or instant, oatmeal is made up of more thinly rolled or cut oats that absorb water much more easily and thus cook faster. The bran, or fiber-rich outer layer of the grain, is often consumed separately as a cereal, with muesli, or in breads.