The Heart Foundation is encouraging people to eat more oats for breakfast given the food’s versatility and heart health benefits.
Heart Foundation senior dietitian, Jemma O’Hanlon, said oats naturally contain beta-glucan to help lower a person’s bad cholesterol.
“Beta glucan is a special type of fibre that can help lower a person’s cholesterol as part of a diet low in saturated fat,” O’Hanlon said.
“Around a third of adult Australians have high cholesterol, which is a leading risk factor for some heart issues. Eating oats is a great way to incorporate more whole grains and beta-glucan into your eating pattern.”
READ MORE: Pantry Basics – Oats
In partnership with Uncle Tobys, the Heart Foundation is sharing ways for people to include more oats in their diet.
Plain rolled oats can be used to make porridge, overnight oats, muesli, included in smoothies and also in a healthy apple crumble. When consumed as part of a heart-healthy eating pattern, oats can help to lower a person’s risk of heart issues.
Top tips for incorporating more oats into your diet
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Glam-up your brekky with ‘hot oats’
Recipe: Hot oats
Jemma’s note: “The base recipe for hot oats on the Heart Foundation website is your canvas – then add your favourite fruits, nuts and seeds.”
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Meal prep a grab-and-go breakfast the night before – in just minutes
Recipe: Grab and go overnight oats
Jemma’s note: “Overnight oats are incredibly easy and delicious and can be tailored to your taste. You can meal prep the night before, or make multiple containers for the week.”
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Include in your favourite smoothie
Jemma’s note: “Include half a cup of oats in your favourite smoothie to bulk it up and still receive the nutritional benefits of oats.”
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Treat dinner guests to a heart-healthy dessert
Recipe: Apple and blueberry crumble
Jemma’s note: Add oats or natural muesli to the Heart Foundation’s apple and blueberry crumble for a heart-healthy indulgence.
