The oat flake has it all: it contains 70 percent carbohydrates, 15 percent protein, is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins B1, B9 and K as well as magnesium, iron and zinc. The small flakes are also rich in fiber, whose beta-glucan can even lower cholesterol levels.
Anyone who eats oatmeal – whether in yogurt or as porridge – is doing something good for their body. But what is actually healthier? The uncooked or the softened flakes? One of the two preparation methods even helps you lose weight.
Are raw oatmeal good for your stomach?
The stomach can easily digest raw oatmeal. So there’s nothing wrong with stirring them directly into milk or yoghurt. However, the flakes contain phytic acid; a phytochemical that binds the nutrients contained in oat flakes.
This is more present when raw, making it more difficult for the nutrients to be absorbed. Only soaking in cold liquids (at least 30 minutes) breaks down the phytic acid and important nutrients, vitamins and minerals are retained.
Why you should avoid uncooked oatmeal
If you eat cold in the morning, you demand a lot of energy from your body. Cravings are the result. With a warm meal, the body no longer has to heat the food for the digestion process.
This leaves him with a lot of energy, which he can use sensibly for the rest of the day and use for other construction sites. Important nutrients are lost when heating, but the feeling of satiety lasts longer because the flakes swell and their volume increases.
Conclusion
Both variants have their advantages and disadvantages. While uncooked oatmeal soaked in cold liquid retains more nutrients, the cooked version keeps you fuller for longer. So if you want to lose some weight, go for the warm version.